For Release:           Immediate – May 20, 2020
Contact:                  Steve Ference, Director of University Communications | (518) 956-7319 | sference@sunypoly.edu

Program to Enable Anyone to Study the COVID-19 Global Pandemic from a
Variety of Disciplinary Perspectives

ALBANY, NY – SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) announced it is offering new, interlinked online courses which allow current SUNY Poly students, as well as others from around the world, to study the COVID-19 pandemic starting May 26. The program provides opportunities to gain knowledge and context in a variety of areas that may be invaluable for students at SUNY Poly and beyond.

“While the COVID-19 pandemic poses profound challenges for our global society, it is of the utmost importance to revisit our knowledge of historical and contemporary societies, explore the scientific and technological responses to the pandemic, and find new ways to communicate our experiences,” said SUNY Poly Interim President Dr. Grace Wang. “Such perspective is critical as the world addresses this multipronged crisis, and I am proud that SUNY Poly’s faculty members are providing their expertise to advance knowledge and potential societal responses.”

Students who  enroll in the online program can sign up for custom “bundles” consisting of two courses—one from a distinctive disciplinary perspective, such as history, anthropology, or nanotechnology; and the other to produce distinct “artifacts” of their choice, such as essays, presentations, digital art, 3D models, or the production of equipment that can help essential workers on the front lines. Most courses provide general education credits.

“The academic advantage offered through these COVID-focused courses for the summer 2020 semester is a testament to SUNY Poly’s ability to lead by providing the most relevant educational opportunities to our students,” said SUNY Poly Interim Provost Dr. Steven Schneider. “It is my hope these convenient online courses will prepare students to be knowledgeable for, not only today’s crisis, but future crises through which they may lead and inspire.”

“As educators, we are at our best when we are working together to build new understanding about pressing societal challenges, like COVID-19,” said SUNY Poly College of Arts and Sciences Dean Dr. Andy Russell. “Our students are craving opportunities to learn more about the pandemic, and we believe these courses will help them learn and, even more, to find their voice and express their unique perspectives and experiences."

Anyone interested in enrolling in the new online educational program can learn more about course details, tuition and fees, and course bundle options by visiting: https://sunypoly.edu/academics/online-learning/pandemic-studies-summer-semester.html. The program runs from May 26 through July 3.

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About SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly)
SUNY Poly is New York’s globally recognized, high-tech educational ecosystem. SUNY Poly offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in the emerging disciplines of nanoscience and nanoengineering, as well as cutting-edge nanobioscience programs at its Albany campus, and undergraduate and graduate degrees in technology, including engineering, cybersecurity, computer science, and the engineering technologies; professional studies, including business, communication, and nursing; and arts and sciences, including natural sciences, mathematics, humanities, and social sciences at its Utica campus; thriving athletic, recreational, and cultural programs, events, and activities complement the campus experience. As the world’s most advanced, university-driven research enterprise, SUNY Poly boasts billions of dollars in high-tech investments and hundreds of corporate partners since its inception. For information visit www.sunypoly.edu.