As casinos and gaming continue to expand and evolve across our country, it’s only natural for academia to become involved in the industry. In fact, it’s rather remarkable how many casinos and gaming enterprises exist globally, how much revenue the take in, yet how few academic arenas offer studies on the subject.
While UNLV more or less has an academic monopoly on the industry, Schenectady County Community College has begun to offer an associate’s degree in casino and gaming management. The program started in September 2013, and requires students to complete a minimum of 61 credits in courses in gaming operations, food and beverage, security and surveillance, and tourism.
The college is also pursuing more courses to offer students on problem gambling. The New York Council on Problem Gambling is being sought out by the college to educate students on signs of gambling addiction. The $330 million Rivers Casino being built nearby by the Galesi Group and Rush Street Gaming of Chicago makes this program a slam dunk.
“Our beverage management and hospitality programs will benefit from a casino here, as well,” Martha Asselin, SCCC’s acting president said. “Communications, marketing and psychology are also skill sets that Rush will look for in employees.”
