Rockford Ready program provides new options for degree completion

Rock Valley College and Rockford University announced today a new partnership designed to provide a seamless path for adult students to complete a business management bachelor's degree at Rockford University through its Puri School of Business.

Rockford, IL (10/22/2019) — Rock Valley College and Rockford University announced today a new partnership designed to provide a seamless path for adult students to complete a business management bachelor's degree at Rockford University through its Puri School of Business. The Rockford Ready program enables anyone who has completed an Associate's of Applied Science (A.A.S) to easily transfer their degree credentials for full-credit and earn a Bachelor's of Science in Management Studies in as little as 24-months through a combination of online and hybrid courses.

Rockford University and Rock Valley College have long-standing transfer articulation agreements for students who begin their college studies at RVC to earn Associate's of Art (A.A.) or Associates of Science (A.S.) degrees, which are degrees designed to prepare students for transfer into a four-year college. Rockford Ready differs in that it is customized more specifically for working individuals who have an A.A.S. degree. A.A.S. degrees are more career-focused programs that provide specific skill sets and certifications to go directly into the workforce.

"We are listening closely to what our area business and industry leaders are saying is needed to help their employees acquire the necessary skills and education they need for continued leadership and management growth," said Rockford University President Dr. Eric Fulcomer. "Rockford Ready is an excellent example of how two organizations can come together to provide a creative and viable continuing education option to specifically addresses those needs. I'm impressed with our respective faculty and administrators who worked side-by-side to design this innovative bachelor's completion curriculum. We are excited to launch the program here today with our RVC colleagues."

RVC President Dr. Doug Jensen adds, "Rockford Ready creates an important new educational pathway for RVC graduates that provides our students and graduates seamless access to an affordable, high-quality local bachelor degree completion program in business management. Our mutual goal with Rockford University is to be receptive and responsive leaders in educational opportunities for our region. Rockford Ready is an excellent example of a program doing that, and one that is sure to offer greater opportunities for career advancement."

Anyone interested in learning more about applying an Associate's of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree toward a bachelor's in business management at Rockford University is encouraged to attend a free Rockford Ready information session on Thursday, October 24, 2019, from 5:30 - 7 p.m., in the Woodward Technology Center Lobby, Rock Valley College, 3301 Mulford Rd, Rockford. An in-depth look at how the program helps advance career opportunities, including details on program and admission requirements will be included. A panel of current and former students will also provide insight into their experiences with Rockford University's business degree completion program. Guests also will be able to speak one-on-one with program advisors and faculty. The $35 application fee is waived for anyone who registers during the event.

There is no cost to attend, but registration is requested. To learn more about the Business Management information session and to register, call 815-226-4040 or visit www.rockford.edu/bsmsInfoSession/ to reserve a spot.

For more information about the Rockford Ready program, contact:

Rock Valley College - Advising; rvc-ata@rockvaleycollege.edu or 815-921-4100 or,

Rockford University - Adult & Graduate Studies; rockfordready@rockford.edu or 815-226-4040

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