CCV College and Career Guide 2015-2016

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COLLEGE

ccv COMMUNIT Y

COLLEGE AND CAREER GUIDE

NEWPORT ST. ALBANS

CCV.EDU

MORRISVILLE

WINOOSKI

ST. JOHNSBURY MONTPELIER CENTER FOR ONLINE LEARNING MIDDLEBURY

RUTLAND

UPPER VALLEY

SPRINGFIELD

BENNINGTON

WELCOME TO COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF VERMONT With 12 locations around the state, as well as extensive online learning options, CCV is a college built with your busy life in mind. Wherever you are in Vermont, CCV has a location near you—even as close as your computer. Contact us to get started.

BRATTLEBORO

Bennington 324 Main Street Bennington, VT 05201 802-447-2361

Morrisville 197 Harrel Street Morrisville, VT 05661 802-888-4258

St. Johnsbury 1197 Main Street St. Johnsbury, VT 05819 802-748-6673

Brattleboro 41 Harmony Place Brattleboro, VT 05301 802-254-6370

Newport 100 Main Street Newport, VT 05855 802-334-3387

Upper Valley 145 Billings Farm Road White River Jct., VT 05001 802-295-8822

Center for Online Learning 802-334-4451

Rutland 60 West Street Rutland, VT 05701 802-786-6996

Winooski 1 Abenaki Way Winooski, VT 05404 802-654-0505

Springfield 307 South Street Springfield, VT 05156 802-885-8360

Administrative Offices PO Box 489, 660 Elm Street Montpelier, VT 05601 802-828-2800 Toll-Free: 800-CCV-6686

Middlebury 10 Merchants Row Middlebury, VT 05753 802-388-3032 Montpelier 660 Elm Street Montpelier, VT 05602 802-828-4060

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St. Albans 142 South Main Street St. Albans, VT 05478 802-524-6541

This publication is made possible through the generous support of the J. Warren and Lois McClure Foundation: Promoting access to postsecondary and career education for Vermonters.

CCV-Springfield geography students map sections of Bellow Falls, VT as part of a counter-cartography service learning project.

WHY COLLEGE? WHY CCV? College is a path to a more fulfilling career. On average, students with an associate degree make $7,500 more per year than those with just a high school diploma.

More importantly though, college is a path to a more fulfilling life.

So why CCV? Because it would be hard to find a school more supportive of you. At CCV you’ll benefit from: n

staff who listen and are happy to explain the college process

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convenient locations and services that focus on your needs

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teaching professionals and opportunities for real-world application

CCV’s programs are built to meet your professional and personal goals regardless of what’s next for you. This is a place to make friends and build networks, to try out new interests and deepen your existing knowledge, to acquire new skills, and to apply them in hands-on settings like internships and service learning projects.

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HOW IT WORKS

Whether you are a recent high school graduate or a professional returning to brush up on your skills, CCV will help you get what you need.

Here’s what that might look like:

Applies to and is accepted at CCV, an open admissions college.

1

Takes a semester of courses at CCV to try out college or even 2 takes courses before graduating from high school to prepare for college (see page 5).

Takes those credits 3 and starts working on an associate degree 4 full or part-time.

RECENT HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE

TEXT NOTES

CONTINUING EDUCATION STUDENT

1 Our school year is split into fall and spring semesters of about 15 weeks each, plus a shorter 7–13 week summer session.

2 A course is a “single subject” that you take for a semester.

3 A lso known as “credit hours.” One credit hour is equal to about 15 hours of instruction time over a semester. Most courses offer 3–4 credits.

4 A college degree between a high school diploma and a bachelor’s degree equal to about 60 credits.

Takes an interesting course or two because you’re never done learning.

5 Moving your credits from one school to another.

6 A degree given by a four-year college or university equal to about 120 credits.

7 A degree given by a college or university beyond a bachelor’s degree equal to an additional 36–60 credits.

8 A n academic record of learning from another school which is used to evaluate credits that can be transferred to CCV. 2 | ccv.edu

Enjoys taking courses and decides to continue on to a certificate or associate degree.

After graduating with an associate degree, transfers 5 those credits to finish a bachelor’s degree 6.

Some professions look for advanced degrees such as a master’s degree 7.

Perhaps never finished a college degree, but has some credits from another school.

8 Has transcript evaluated by CCV.

PROFESSIONAL RETURNING TO SCHOOL

Gets credit for life and work experience through Prior Learning Assessment options (see page 8).

Resum

e

Takes a few courses to sharpen skills. May even decide to finish an associate degree.

CERTIFICATE STUDENT

Needs to improve skills or wants a resume builder.

CCV.EDU Might transfer that certificate into a full associate degree program.

Chooses a certificate, which is a great way to build new skills.

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JOIN A VIBRANT LEARNING COMMUNITY CCV classes are vigorous and engaging, full of discussion and active learning. You will explore subjects in depth, guided by instructors who live in your community and are experts in their fields.

You will meet students from diverse backgrounds and of many ages.

You’ll encounter college-aged students who recognize the value of starting their studies at CCV before transferring to keep their college costs low, mid-career adults finishing their degree to enhance their job opportunities, military veterans making the transition to civilian life, and a cross section of students taking classes for personal enrichment.

Regardless of who you are, your voice will add to the learning of your classmates, and you will learn from them.

At CCV you can apply classroom learning to real-world experiences: you can travel with a study abroad class, volunteer in your community on service-learning projects, or work as an intern in a local business.

Every project and every class builds your skills and shapes your future.

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COUNT ON US FROM START TO FINISH You come to CCV with your own goals, skills, and needs; we provide the support and resources when and where you need them. Your academic advisor is your main support throughout your studies. Your advisor helps you clarify your goals, plan your program, choose your classes, and can connect you to the many resources available to ensure your academic success: LEARNING & CAREER CENTER

DISABILITY SERVICES

Each CCV location features a Learning & Career Center where you can access computers, work with a tutor on writing, math, research, and many more subjects, or connect with other students. You can also access CCV’s career services through the Learning & Career Center.

Each CCV academic center has a staff member who advises and supports students with disabilities.

CAREER SERVICES CCV’s Career Services give you direct access to tools, services, and hands-on learning opportunities that will set you up for landing a rewarding job. Visit your local Learning & Career Center to explore careers, identify career goals, build a dynamic resume, and practice interviewing skills. You can also arrange for a job shadow or an informational interview, search for job listings, and learn about internships.

HARTNESS LIBRARY As a CCV student, you have access to our state-of-the-art Hartness Library, and all of the other state colleges’ library collections. You can search databases, chat with a librarian, use e-books, videos, and tutorials 24/7 online, or request books to be sent to your home for free.

eTUTORING eTutoring offers online help with your studies, 24/7. You can submit a paper for feedback or post questions about math, writing, accounting, statistics, life sciences, and research.

TRIO SERVICES The federally funded TRIO program is designed to help first-generation and underrepresented students reach their academic potential and meet their educational and career goals.

VETERAN SERVICES Proudly serving over 400 militaryconnected students each year, CCV is committed to assisting you in your transition to college and supporting your academic goals. In addition to the personalized academic advising every CCV student receives, you have access to a Veteran & Military Resource Advisor who can help you map out your academic options, advise you on your military benefits, and direct you to community resources.

ONLINE COURSES You live in a modern world, why not take a modern approach to your college education? With over 300 online courses each semester, you can go to college at any time and from any place you choose. Online learning offers you maximum convenience and flexibility.

When paired with the small class sizes, quality faculty, interactive learning environments, and the academic support for which CCV is known,

online classes become a dynamic part of your college career. Moving your learning online is a great way to fit college into your life and accelerate your degree completion!

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS Starting college for free while in high school is a brilliant idea! Start by taking CCV’s Introduction to College Studies (ICS) course. This free class helps you develop skills and strategies for college and career success.

Continue on with Dual Enrollment during your junior and senior years where you have the opportunity to take two free college courses. The credits you earn help you finish high school and start college, all at the same time! If you’re really ready to move on as a rising senior, you can enroll in CCV’s Early College Program. Early College allows you to spend your entire senior year at CCV earning college credits while completing your high school requirements. It’s possible to earn your high school diploma and complete your freshman year of college simultaneously.

Find out more at gotocollegevt.org

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MAKE A SMART INVESTMENT The price of CCV remains low, but the value of our education continues to grow. People with an associate degree earn on average $7,500 more per year than those with just a high school education. In some fields, that amount is much higher.

With the average cost for a year of school at CCV being around $5,900, this is money well-invested.

COMPARE THE COST OF TUITION AND FEES AT VERMONT INSTITUTIONS

$30,912 $14,664

$10,668 * Reflects published 2015-2016 tuition costs for full-time, in-state students. VSC (excluding CCV) and Vermont private colleges data based on average tuition cost of applicable institutions.

CCV tuition cost reflects enrollment in 24 credits per year. Individual costs may vary.

$5,904

University of Vermont

Community College of Vermont

VT private colleges

Vermont State Colleges

MORE AFFORDABLE THAN YOU THINK CCV is a great investment. Even better is that many students pay less than full tuition. Here’s an example for one semester:

$ $2,943 **

$2,566 **

Cost @ 12 credits

Average grants and scholarships

STICKER PRICE In-state, full-time tuition & fees

GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPS Gift aid—free money you don’t have to pay back

** Reflects the full-time tuition and fees for one semester during the 2014–15 academic year and the average grant and scholarship awards for full-time financial aid recipients during the same year.

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=

$377

$31 per credit hour NET PRICE The difference between the two— the real amount you pay (typically with loans, savings, and income)

USE YOUR CREDITS BRING YOUR CREDITS TO CCV Many students attend other colleges before finding CCV. With our generous transfer credit process and flexible programs, you will get the most out of your previous college credits. We know you don’t want to waste your time—we’ll help you find the most efficient path to graduating. You can even fast-track your degree and save thousands by getting credit for college-level learning you’ve acquired outside of college.

TAKE YOUR CREDITS WITH YOU Whether you want an associate degree or just a few classes, CCV is the best place to start your college education. Because we’re accredited by the oldest and most respected accrediting body in the country (NEASC), you’ll earn high-quality credits that transfer throughout Vermont and across the nation. We’ve also set up special transfer agreements with most colleges in Vermont—including guaranteed admission to the Vermont State Colleges, as well as a variety of programs at the University of Vermont. Visit our website for details on all of our state and regional transfer agreements.

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Comcast employees participate in an on-site Assessment of Prior Learning class, earning college credits for learning they’ve completed outside the classroom.

FOCUS ON YOUR CAREER CCV is as focused on your professional outcomes as it is on your educational success. We are recognized by employers throughout the state as a top-notch resource for workforce education and training. Many of our classes and programs feature service learning projects and guaranteed internship placements, giving you the opportunity to network, gain hands-on work experience, and better understand your chosen field. Employers know that CCV students work hard and are well prepared for the workplace.

Ready to get started? Try one of our free career readiness programs like the Governor’s Career Readiness Certificate Program or CRCpro. These trainings help you improve your skills and ability to get a job while paving the way for you to earn state and national career readiness credentials.

You can also boost your career by completing an industry-recognized credential such as the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification or the Certified Production Technician (CPTAE), both of which are also available through CCV at no cost.*

GET CREDIT FOR WHAT YOU KNOW At CCV, you have four ways to get credit for what you already know: n

Come in and take a CLEP test

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Show what you know through a course challenge

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Create a focused portfolio in your specific area of expertise earning up to 16 credits

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Take the Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) class for an unlimited number of credits

Regardless of which option you choose, you’ll save time and money and reach your goal faster. Find out more at ccv.edu/apl. *pending available funding Workforce programs supported, in part, by a grant from the U.S. Dept. of Labor. CCV is an equal opportunity employer. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

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CONTINUE YOUR EDUCATION You don’t have to enroll in a degree program to join CCV’s learning community. As a continuing education student at CCV, you can choose from hundreds of courses offered in your local community and online.

SHARPEN YOUR SKILLS From technology to business management, communications to statistics, CCV is the place to improve your skills and gain a competitive edge in the workplace.

GET BACK INTO IT If you’ve been away from school for a few years, a CCV course can help you get back into the habit of studying and going to class. Ask an advisor to recommend a class that is right for you.

ENRICH YOURSELF CCV offers classes in a wide variety of subjects including art, music, history, languages, writing, literature, and even forensics!

Vermont residents age 65 and older may attend tuition-free, space permitting.

Whatever your educational goals, CCV’s extensive course offerings, flexible scheduling, and personal support are here to help you achieve them.

Before heading out for fieldwork in the North Branch of the Winooski River, CCV-Montpelier students simulate stream bed erosion in an Aquatic Ecology class.

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CHOOSE YOUR PATH CCV’s associate degree and certificate programs provide the knowledge you need for employment or further study at the bachelor’s level and beyond. These programs are developed with the help of Vermont employers to ensure that our offerings are current and teach the skills you need.

Explore additional programs and learning goals, occupational outlook, and courses at ccv.edu.

AREA OF STUDY

FEATURED COURSES

PREPARES YOU TO

SALARY (VT)

Accounting Associate of Science Degree

Financial Accounting Principles of Management Economics

Perform entry-level accounting work in a variety of business settings, and transfer to a fouryear program in this expanding field.

$17,000–$25,000

Administrative Management Associate of Science Degree

Computer Applications Office Accounting Principles of Supervision

Work in a variety of business settings, performing critical administrative and office support services.

$25,000– $35,000

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AREA OF STUDY

FEATURED COURSES

PREPARES YOU TO

SALARY (VT)

Business Associate of Science Degree

Principles of Marketing Small Business Management Business Law

Problem-solve with entry-level marketing, management, and accounting skills in corporate or small-business settings, and transfer to a four-year business program.

$25,000– $35,000

Computer Systems Management Associate of Science Degree

Desktop Operating Systems Concepts of PC Hardware Concepts of Computer Security

Work as an entry-level network administrator, computer support specialist, or database administrator, and transfer into a four-year program in IT.

$35,000– $40,000

Criminal Justice Associate of Science Degree

National Security and Terrorism Criminology American Judicial Process

Take an entry-level position in security, corrections, or police work, and transfer to a fouryear program.

$30,000–$40,000

Early Childhood Education Associate of Arts Degree

Introduction to Early Intervention Curriculum Development for ECE Early Childhood Education and Afterschool Program Management

Earn state-level credentials for rewarding work with young children and families, and transfer to a bachelor’s degree program in related education fields.

$20,000– $25,000

Environmental Science Associate of Science Degree

Fundamentals of Earth Science Current Environmental Issues Natural History of Vermont

Work in an entry-level position in natural resource conservation, energy efficiency administration, or environmental education, and transfer into a four-year program in environmental science or studies.

$35,000–$40,000

Graphic Design Associate of Arts Degree

Digital Image Manipulation Advertising Introduction to Flash Animation

Use today’s digital tools to work in art and design for advertising, publications, and public relations in a corporate or non-profit setting, or for an ad agency, and gain advanced skills by transferring to a fouryear program in graphic design.

$35,000– $45,000

Human Services Associate of Science Degree

Human Growth & Development Introduction to Case Management Global Social Problems

Take an entry-level job in human services and transfer to a four-year program in social work, human services, or psychology.

$20,000– $30,000

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AREA OF STUDY

FEATURED COURSES

PREPARES YOU TO

Liberal Studies Associate of Arts Degree

Explore your interests via hundreds of available courses.

Prepare for transfer to a fouryear institution to complete your bachelor’s degree with this, our most flexible program.

Medical Assisting Associate of Applied Science Degree

Introduction to Phlebotomy Medical Terminology Fundamentals of Pharmacology

Perform administrative and clinical functions of a medical assistant in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community health centers.

$27,000– $35,000

Multimedia Communications Associate of Arts Degree

Social Media & Communication Introduction to Mass Communication Introduction to Filmmaking

Become an assistant producer or designer in interactive media and transfer these skills into a four-year program in media production, education, or marketing.

$30,000– $35,000

Network Administration Associate of Applied Science

Cisco Linux Windows Server Administration

Design, build, and maintain local and wide area networks in an entry-level capacity, and transfer to a four-year program in IT.

$35,000– $45,000

STEM Studies Associate of Science Degree

Introductory Biology: Ecology & Evolution Calculus Physics Java Programming

Pursue your individual goals in fields such as physical science, life science, and pre-engineering, and gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in key scientific and technical economic sectors in Vermont.

$45,000– $66,000

Visual Arts Associate of Arts Degree

Introduction to Studio Art Two-Dimensional Design Ceramics

Work as a studio artist, a gallery worker, or an illustrator, and transfer to a four-year program and prepare to be an arts educator.

SALARY/INFORMATION SOURCES n n n

Career OneStop (Sponsored by the U.S. Dept. of Labor): careeronestop.org Pathways to Promising Careers: mcclurevt.org/pathways State of Vermont: Economic & Labor Market Information: www.vtlmi.info

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SALARY (VT)

$15,000 -$25,000

AREA OF STUDY

FEATURED COURSES

PREPARES YOU TO

SALARY (VT)

Allied Health Preparation Certificate

Human Anatomy & Physiology Introduction to Nutrition Human Growth & Development

Allows you to complete prerequisites for further study in the healthcare field.

Childcare Certificate

Communication in the Early Childhood Edu. & Afterschool Workplace Infant & Toddler Development Introduction to Early Intervention

Enter the childcare profession, work toward state-level credentials in the field, and apply your certificate credits to an associate degree in early childhood education at CCV.

$17,000–$25,000

Health Information Specialist Certificate

Introduction to Health Information Systems Medical Terminology Medical Billing & Coding

Work in the billing or coding department of a healthcare provider or as an entry-level professional in the health information department.

$25,000–$46,000

STEM Studies Certificate

English Composition Pre-Calculus Lab Science

This certificate provides a strong foundation in science, mathematics, and other academic skills and serves as a pathway into CCV’s STEM Studies degree or for transfer toward technical degrees.

Substance Abuse Services Certificate

Substance Abuse: Services & Treatment Group Process: Theory & Practice Human Behavior in the Social Environment

Take an entry-level job in the substance abuse field and sit for the Vermont state examination for Apprentice Addiction Professional.

$27,000–$37,000

Web Site Design Certificate

Website Development Programming for the Internet Database Management Systems

Create professional-quality websites and participate in web development teams in a variety of fields.

$35,000– $45,000

Workplace Skills Certificate

Introduction to Business Microcomputer Applications Effective Workplace Communication

Apply strong communication, writing, and computer skills in any entry-level work environment.

$26,000–$30,000

CCV is committed to non-discrimination in its learning and working environments for all persons. All educational and employment opportunities at CCV are offered without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status or any other category protected by law.

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COLLEGE

ccv COMMUNIT Y

PO Box 489 Montpelier, VT 05601 800-228-6686 ccv.edu

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802-828-2800

TAKE THE NEXT STEP Becoming a CCV student is simple.

No fees, no essays, no reference letters, and SAT scores are optional. What do you have to lose? Get started today. n

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Apply at apply.ccv.edu—the application is free and will only take a few minutes. eet with an academic advisor M who will explain the steps to becoming a student and will discuss how CCV can help you achieve your goals.

CCV.EDU Design: New Ground Creative Photos: Josh Larkin