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When you think “college student,” it’s easy to imagine a carefree 19-year-old addicted to Snapchat and skinny jeans. But adult enrollment is on the rise at colleges nationwide, thanks to an increase in online learning capabilities and other benefits to attract what some term “nontraditional students.”

At Raritan Valley Community College, 16% of our students are over the age of 25—a percentage that we suspect will only increase in the coming years. Whether you’re looking to change careers, freshen up your skills, or simply want to attend college for the first time, RVCC is an excellent place to explore adult college programs in the Somerset County and Hunterdon County area. Here’s why!

Flexible Scheduling

We understand that the decision to go to college isn’t easy—especially when juggling a career and family. RVCC will help you find a way to fit college into your lifestyle. Our flexible scheduling makes it possible for you to take classes during the day, in the evening or even on weekends. You have the option of taking traditional classroom classes, online courses or hybrid courses that combine both classroom and online instruction.

Special Advising

Adult learners are often on a non-linear path. At RVCC, we’re here to help you make your transition back into the classroom easy and successful with special advising and orientation programs designed specifically for adult learners. The Lifelong Educational Opportunity Students Club provides an opportunity for adult learners to share their experiences and concerns in a supportive atmosphere.

Credit Transfer Assistance

We’ll work with you to transfer old credits you may have earned at other colleges or even get credits for your valuable lifetime experience. Many students find they can complete a degree or certificate program in less time than they might think.

Great Value

Our annual tuition is a third of what it would cost to attend a four-year public college in New Jersey. And RVCC graduates have transferred to top colleges and universities in NJ, across the country, and even abroad.

Certificate Programs

Who says all career changes require a degree? RVCC’s community college certificate programs can be completed in a year or less, in such fields as computer science, healthcare, event planning, HVAC, advanced manufacturing and more. Developed in partnership with local industry, our high-quality, affordable programs are designed to put you on the path to success with practical training that directly translates into employment. In fact, we offer job shadowing, internships and job placement services for many programs. To learn more about career training certificate programs, click here.

Tools for Success

What really makes RVCC so special is that we are committed to the success of every student. Our class sizes are small—averaging just 19 students. Free tutoring is available days, nights and online. And our faculty are top-notch, caring individuals who will support and encourage you. They truly enjoy having students of all different ages and backgrounds in their classes. We hope the next student will be you!

For more information on adult learning at RVCC, register for our upcoming attend our Open House.