Ramapo College will offer elementary education degree on the Sussex County Community College campus to SCCC students via a transfer agreement, saving students money in overall educational costs

February 4, 2026

Ramapo College of New Jersey is expanding access to its Teacher Education Program through a new partnership with Sussex County Community College, creating a locally based pathway for students who want to become elementary school teachers without leaving Sussex County.

Under the agreement, students will complete an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts at Sussex County Community College and continue directly into Ramapo’s Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education program. Upper-level Ramapo courses will be taught by Ramapo faculty on the SCCC campus, allowing students to stay rooted in their community while earning a Ramapo degree. Students may also have the option to complete a Master of Arts in Special Education with one additional year of study.

“This partnership allows us to meet students where they are—geographically and professionally,” said Dr. Adam Fried, assistant dean of teacher education at Ramapo College. “By bringing our program to Sussex County, we’re preparing future educators in the communities that need them most and building stronger connections with local school districts.”

The program follows a 2+2+1 model, which reduces the need for long commutes or relocation and helps lower overall educational costs. Students who complete their associate degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and meet admission requirements will enter Ramapo’s program as juniors, earning a bachelor’s degree awarded by Ramapo College of New Jersey.

Ramapo College President Dr. Cindy Jebb said the partnership reflects the College’s commitment to collaboration and community impact. “This agreement is about trust, shared goals, and doing what’s right for students,” Jebb said. “Together with Sussex County Community College, we’re creating opportunities that strengthen both higher education and the local educator workforce.”

The program includes coordinated advising, waived application and deposit fees for transferring students, joint recruitment efforts, and access to student services at both institutions. Students enrolled at SCCC with questions about this new opportunity should contact Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator of Elementary/Secondary Education, Vicki
Vigorito at vvigorito@sussex.edu.