It’s a common dilemma. Your high school senior mosies through the door midday. Perhaps they make a beeline to the kitchen for a second lunch. Or maybe they head to their room for a nap or some downtime playing video games? Some will head back out to their part-time job before you even get a chance to say hello. However they choose to spend the time, there’s another way.

Whether you call it early dismissal, senior privilege, early release or any variation on those, leaving high school early provides the perfect opportunity for your student to get a head start on college. Didn’t know that was an option? It is at Rowan College at Burlington County! 

Through RCBC’s High School Quick Step program, high school seniors can get free training* in high-demand fields, including computer technology, supply chain management and culinary. 

So, why should your high school senior enroll?

1. They can maximize their final year of high school by acclimating to college life. Where’s the computer lab? How much time should I spend studying? What’s the social scene like? Take the guesswork out of these common questions by giving your student an exclusive opportunity to take college courses while still enrolled in high school. 

2. They will earn college credit leading to faster degree completion. Whichever path your student chooses, it’s likely it will involve some college education. Why not have them knock some courses out early to pave the way for future success?

3. They will gain industry-recognized credentials, setting them up to thrive in an in-demand profession immediately after graduation. Expanding your student’s skillset while increasing their hire-ability so early on is a win-win. 

Sounds great! What are the program options?

Students may choose from three high-demand programs:

• Computer Technology: CompTIA ITF & Network+

  • The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) is a leader in IT certifications and preparing individuals for the technology workforce. CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) is an introduction to basic IT knowledge and skills and provides a solid grounding in technology concepts and practices organizations use today. Upon completion, students earn college credit toward an RCBC Computing and Information Sciences degree or many other colleges.

• Supply Chain Management

  • This course will provide training in three supply chain management modules, including supply chain management principles, customer service operations and transportation operations. Upon completion, students earn three credits toward an RCBC Technical Studies degree. This program includes three modules of the SCPro industry certification from the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP).

• Culinary

  • This course will provide food service, accident prevention and an introductory course in food preparation. Upon completion, students earn college credit toward the Cooking and Baking career certificate and RCBC’s Culinary Arts Associate of Applied Science (AAS.CUL) degree program or many other colleges.

Need another reason for your student to spend that extra time at RCBC? 

They could be eligible for free enrollment! Thanks to the *Opportunity Meets Innovation Challenge grant, there are scholarship slots open for each program. Seats are limited, so students are encouraged to apply here now. 

To be considered for a grant-funded scholarship, students must possess a strong work ethic, be able to follow through and complete projects, have a good attendance record and submit an application with a counselor or teacher letter of recommendation. Priority will be given to students eligible for the National Student Lunch Program.

Visit rcbc.edu/quick-step for more information.