Frequently Asked Questions

What is the partnership all about?

This exciting initiative allows area residents to take classes from NIU in Rockford. The classes are held primarily at the RVC Stenstrom Center campus located on Samuelson Road next to Jefferson High School. Some classes are also offered online or at the NIU Rockford Outreach Center on State Street.

Which courses and programs are available?

RVC and NIU have agreed to offer courses leading to an NIU bachelor's degree in the following areas:

• Computer Science
• Elementary Education
• Bachelor of General Studies in Liberal Arts and Sciences
• Industrial Technology
• Nursing

Two additional programs, a full-time daytime Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a part-time Certificate of Undergraduate Study in Geographic Information Systems are also offered in Rockford.

When did the partnership take effect?

The agreement began with classes offered during the Summer 2002 semester.

Can the degrees be completed in the normal four-year time frame?

We expect that most of our students in this program will be part-time students who are juggling college with work and family responsibilities. As a result, most students will normally take longer to complete their bachelor's degrees. Many courses will be offered in the evening and on weekends for added convenience.

How does this program differ from the dual admissions agreement currently in effect for RVC and NIU?

That agreement allows RVC students to automatically be admitted to certain NIU programs during their two years at RVC. The new partnership complements that agreement by allowing dual admissions students to actually go on to complete their bachelor's degree at NIU right in Rockford. And, since NIU-Rockford offers many graduate programs, it's possible to go on for an advanced degree without ever leaving the community!

What other services are offered as part of this partnership?

The partnership agreement calls for both institutions to be innovative in their approach to packaging courses and providing student services.

Is there a chance that other courses or programs will be offered in the future?

The offerings through this unique partnership will be demand-driven. That means that sufficient demand must exist in the community, not only from the student's point of view, but also from needs expressed by business and industry.

What can I do to get involved in these programs?

You can contact RVC's Transfer Center at 921-4141 or NIU Office of Admissions at 1-800-892-3050 with questions.