Sterling College To Conclude Degree-Granting Programs After Spring 2026

November 12, 2025

After more than 65 years of providing experiential, environmentally focused education, Sterling College will complete its final academic year in Spring 2026. The decision, made by the Board of Trustees after extensive review, reflects the College’s commitment to transparency, responsibility, and care in the face of persistent financial and enrollment challenges. 

Sterling anticipates remaining fully accredited through the Summer of 2026 and will enable an orderly, student-centered Spring semester, ensuring every student has a clear and supported path to degree completion or transfer. 

We understand that this news is difficult and deeply personal for every member of our community. Sterling College has always been more than a place of learning; it has been a home where curiosity, creativity, and compassion thrived.

While Sterling’s chapter as an institution of higher learning draws to a close, its spirit and legacy lives on through the hundreds of alumni, faculty, staff, and partners who carry forward its mission and values in their work and communities. The legacy of Sterling’s commitment to sustainability, community, and hands-on learning will continue to inspire generations to come.

As we focus on the weeks and months ahead, our highest priority is to support every member of the Sterling community. We are dedicated to ensuring a smooth and thoughtful transition for our students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

Below, you will find key information and resources related to this transition. For general questions, please contact us at [email protected].

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Current Students

A structured teach-out process allows students to complete their academic programs at another institution with minimal disruption and full preservation of degree integrity. Sterling College has established several formal agreements with teach-out partners, though students are also welcome to explore other institutions. Partner institutions have agreed to accept all transfer credits and financial aid packages without requiring a formal application process. Institutions without a formal agreement with Sterling may require an application and will determine credit transfer and financial aid acceptance at their discretion. Each student will work with a designated Academic Advisor who is available to assess program compatibility with other institutions and provide individualized support throughout the process.

  • Sterling College is finalizing several teach-out partner agreements to be approved by our accreditor, NECHE. Details to follow.

  • Students on track to graduate for May 2026 will receive individual advising to support that goal. Options may include transferring credits, completing internships, or enrolling in an accelerated plan. Summer internships through August 2026 will be available, if needed.

  • The timeline below will be updated in the days ahead and outlines key dates and milestones in the College’s program closure process, including academic teach-out details, student support initiatives, and important deadlines. Our goal is to keep students, families, faculty, staff, and community members informed every step of the way.

    • Final Sterling College Commencement Ceremony: May 16, 2026

  • Sterling College invites current students and parents to join our Leadership team including members from the Office of Academics and Student Lifefor a virtual information session. We’ll walk through teach-out options, the timeline, and next steps. Our goal is to provide clarity and support as you plan your next steps. Please find event details below.

  • Sterling will be hosting a College Fair on campus in February to provide current students with a chance to learn more about other institutions and how they align with their academic needs. The tentative dates are February 19th and 20th. More information will be provided, as we finalize the details.

  • Transcripts, degree verification, and academic support will remain available through our Registrar’s Office. You may submit a records request through our Transcript Request Form.

  • Financial Aid packages will remain available through the end of the academic year. All financial aid questions can be directed to our Director of Financial Aid, Barb Stuart at [email protected]

  • We’re maintaining a list of Frequently Asked Questions to provide additional detail and information related to current students. For any additional questions, please email [email protected] or contact your designated academic advisor.

Alumni

The legacy of Sterling College lives on through our alumni and supporters—each of you has played an essential role in shaping the spirit and story of Sterling. Your accomplishments, memories, and continued connection to the College embody the values that have defined our community for generations.

We warmly invite alumni to share memories, stories, and photos that celebrate Sterling’s enduring impact and honor the experiences that brought us together. Your reflections help keep the Sterling spirit alive and remind us of the strength and resilience of our community.

We also understand that this period of transition may bring practical needs as well. Alumni who require access to records, transcripts, or degree verification can easily request them through our Transcript Request Form through May 31st, 2026. Our team is committed to ensuring your records remain accessible and that you continue to receive the support you need as a valued member of the Sterling community. After that point, a designated teach-out partner will  be the custodian for all Sterling College records. More information to follow.

Staff & Faculty

The conclusion of Sterling College’s Degree program is not a reflection of the dedication, talent, or performance of our faculty and staff. Throughout the years, our employees have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to our students, our mission, and the broader Sterling community. Their passion for teaching, mentoring, and service has shaped the lives of countless students and left a lasting impact on the College’s legacy.

We are profoundly grateful for their years of hard work and devotion, and we recognize the deep sense of loss and uncertainty that this transition brings. Sterling College is committed to supporting our faculty and staff through this difficult period. All employees have access to Human Resources assistance, including guidance on benefits, employment transitions, and available resources.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to every member of the Sterling team for their unwavering contributions to our community and their enduring embodiment of the values that define Sterling College.

Community Partners

Sterling College is deeply grateful for the unwavering support and partnership of our community. Over the years, these relationships with local organizations, educational institutions, donors, and friends have been integral to our success and growth. Together, we have created opportunities for students, strengthened our region, and upheld the values that define Sterling’s mission.

As the College moves through this transition, we remain committed to open communication and collaboration with each of our partners. Our goal is to ensure the process is as smooth and transparent as possible, honoring the trust and shared purpose that have guided our work together.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to the Sterling community. Your support, generosity, and belief in our mission have made a lasting difference.

Media Inquiries

Sterling College is committed to concluding its degree programs with care and integrity, ensuring that every student has a clear and supported path forward. The College carefully explored every viable option for continuation, and our approved teach-out plan reflects our commitment to treating our students, employees, and mission with the utmost care and responsibility.

Members of the media seeking information about Sterling College’s closure, transition plans, or to request interviews with College representatives are invited to contact our Communications and Marketing Office at [email protected].

Our communications team is available to provide accurate information, coordinate interviews, and assist with media requests as Sterling College moves through this important transition.

Looking Ahead

Sterling College will continue to be a thoughtful steward, guided by its mission, as we explore what comes next for the campus, the land, and the shared work that has bound Sterling and Craftsbury together for more than half a century.

Thank you for your ongoing friendship, generosity, and care for this College and this community.