There’s still time to apply to TCC Accelerated Degree Program
While most of us think of it taking at least two years to receive an associate degree, Tidewater Community College offers an accelerated option that allows you to complete all of your credits in just one year.
TCC is accepting applications for students interested in earning an Associate of Science in General Studies or an Associate of Science in Business Administration through its Accelerated Degree Program (ADP).
Accelerated Degree may be your fast track to a bachelor’s
The ADP satisfies freshman and sophomore general education requirements at most Virginia public colleges and universities. Students who complete the degree and meet the GPA required for admission at their transfer institution will likely be admitted as juniors.
The application deadline is July 26; learn about all the documents necessary to apply here.
The business degree is offered both on campus and 100% online. On campus students must attend classes on either the Norfolk or Portsmouth campuses. They received dedicated advising, including monthly check-ins.
Meredith Pollard, lead counselor and ADP advisor, recommends the program for:
*High achieving students with a clear career path
*Students who already have college credits
*Active duty military and dependents who are stationed in Hampton Roads
Nargis Martin graduated with her accelerated degree in May. “I learn a lot better when it’s going faster, and I’ve appreciated the extra help provided by my ADP teachers and advisor,” she said. Even the monthly check-ins are great because I could express concerns and keep on top of everything.”
Pollard is happy to help. She got her start as an earth science teacher at Booker T Washington High, and while there, found her passion helping students find their career paths. She returned to school for her master’s in high education administration and joined TCC’s advising staff in 2012.
“My greatest joy is to see students graduate after they’ve been told that they can’t do it,” she said. “I see so many small successes day by day, and that’s what excites me about my work. Every day there are new challenges and a chance to change someone’s future.”
For more information, email accelerated_degree@tcc.edu.
Pollard’s top tips for all students:
*Come to campus well before the semester starts. Giving yourself two or three weeks of lead time will help when applying for financial aid and ordering books and supplies.
*Meet with an academic advisor from the start so you don’t waste time taking classes outside of your degree track.
*Review class offerings and understand the difference between taking classes on campus and online.
*Know how you are going to pay for college. TCC is one of the most affordable options.
*Do a little bit of research on possible fields of study and think about where you may like to transfer.
*Don’t worry if your path is unclear. Community college is an ideal place to find your path.
*Know that TCC offers different class offering with 16-, 12- and eight-week classes.