A partnership that helps injured workers go to college
The NYS Workers’ Compensation Board has a new partnership with the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY) that can help injured employees return to work. We are partnering with these schools to promote the SUNY/CUNY Reconnect programs, which provide eligible New Yorkers (including injured workers) the opportunity to pursue a college education and learn new skills, for free!
SUNY/CUNY Reconnect offers free associate degrees (two-year programs) to New Yorkers aged 25-55 who do not already have a college degree. The programs cover the cost of tuition, books, and supplies for any of the eligible fields of study. These qualified degree programs focus on in-demand occupations such as health care, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, and artificial intelligence & technology, and many others. There are options for both on-campus and online learning, with full or part-time attendance.
SUNY and CUNY Reconnect programs offer a great opportunity to injured workers who need to change careers or acquire new skills following a work-related injury or illness.
Get connected!
To learn how SUNY/CUNY Reconnect can connect you to your next career, please visit the program sites below. You can review the list of eligible occupational programs, learn how to apply, and/or get information about attending an informational session.
Additional return-to-work support from the NYS Workers’ Compensation Board
Beyond the SUNY/CUNY Reconnect programs, Board vocational rehabilitation counselors can help injured workers connect to other training opportunities in their communities, such as certificate programs, micro-credential trainings, and apprenticeship options. The vocational rehabilitation counselors at the Board also help injured workers develop action plans to find or maintain employment. They can assist with:
- Career counseling
- Vocational skill building
- Training
- Resume development
- Employment searches
- Language accessibility
To learn more, please visit the Support Services section of this website. You can also email VocRehab@wcb.ny.gov or call (877) 632-4996 and ask to speak with a vocational rehabilitation counselor. Language assistance is provided if needed.