A college in Central New York will begin offering a new engineering degree next fall as the Syracuse area gears up for Micron Technology’s arrival.
Le Moyne College’s bachelor of science in applied physics will officially launch in the fall 2026 semester, according to a press release. The Jesuit college decided to start offering the program to help prepare students for the Micron factory opening.
“Le Moyne is excited to offer the new applied physics major, which will strengthen Le Moyne’s position as a key player in emerging careers in engineering, as well as specific fields such as semiconductors and material sciences,” said Le Moyne President Linda LeMura.
Micron is expected to start construction of a massive chipmaking facility north of Syracuse in Clay soon. The project is estimated to create 4,000 construction jobs, 9,000 jobs at the Micron plant and 9,500 jobs in businesses that supply Micron.
An applied physics degree can lead to jobs in the semiconductor and microelectronics industry, energy and renewable technology and software development.
Le Moyne is not the only educational institution preparing for Micron. With assistance from the technology giant, Onondaga Community College created an electromechanical technology major. In collaboration with OCC, Corcoran High School has also created a semiconductor program.
“Applied physics has been described as where scientific curiosity meets hands-on innovation,” said Christopher Bass, chair of Le Moyne’s Physics Department. “The program will offer personalized mentoring, advanced labs and research opportunities where students will gain the knowledge and experience that will allow them to step confidently into high-demand careers.”
