Exploring Programs and Courses at Rochester Community and Technical College
Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC) stands as a public community college in Rochester, Minnesota, playing a vital role in the region's higher education landscape. Serving over 8,000 students each year, RCTC offers a diverse array of academic and vocational programs, designed to meet the evolving needs of its students and the surrounding community. With a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, RCTC has continually adapted to provide accessible and high-quality education.
A Broad Spectrum of Academic Programs
RCTC offers more than 70 programs and over 130 credential options with varying delivery options (whether online, in-person, or hybrid). RCTC provides a wide range of academic paths for students with diverse interests and career goals, including certificates, diplomas, and associate’s degrees. These programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in their chosen fields, whether they plan to enter the workforce directly or continue their education at a four-year institution.
Certificates: Focused Skill Development
A certificate is awarded for successful completion of a specialized set of skills or program of study. Certificates range in length from 9-30 credits. These programs provide targeted training in specific areas, enabling students to quickly gain expertise and enhance their employability. Several certificates are intended to be portions of diplomas or degrees.
Diplomas: Building Comprehensive Skill Sets
A diploma is awarded for successful completion of a program intended to provide students with a series of employment skill sets beyond the certificate. A diploma ranges in length from 31-72 semester credits. Diplomas offer a more in-depth educational experience than certificates, providing students with a broader range of skills and knowledge.
Associate's Degrees: Pathways to Career and Further Education
RCTC offers several types of associate's degrees, each designed to meet specific academic and career goals:
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- Associate of Applied Science (AAS): An Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) is intended to prepare students for employment. An Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) is awarded for the successful completion of a program of 60-72 semester credits. AAS degrees focus on practical, hands-on training in technical and vocational fields. Increasingly, however, AAS degrees articulate to Bachelor of Applied Science degrees (BAS) with transfer institutions.
- Associate of Science (AS): An Associate of Science Degree (AS) is intended to prepare the student for employment in a designated field or area OR to prepare the student in a designated field or area which transfers to a baccalaureate major (BS) in a related scientific or technical field. Increasingly the AS degree is intended to meet the first two years of requirements for a specific baccalaureate program (BS). At least 20 semester credits must be earned at RCTC. AS degrees provide a foundation in science and mathematics, preparing students for further study in these fields.
- Associate of Arts (AA): An Associate of Arts degree (AA) is intended to complete the first two years of a baccalaureate degrees (BA and/or BS). An Associate of Arts degree is awarded after the successful completion of a program of 60-64 semester credits. At least 20 semester credits must be earned at RCTC. AA degrees offer a broad-based education in the humanities and social sciences, making them ideal for students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university.
- Associate of Fine Arts (AFA): An Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) degree is awarded for study in music or art at Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC). The AFA is awarded for successful completion of a program of 60-64 semester credits; at least 20 semester credits must be earned at RCTC. AFA degrees are designed for students pursuing careers in the arts.
Path to Purple Programs
The college has partnered with Winona State University to establish more than a dozen Path to Purple programs that allow students to complete a four-year degree without leaving Rochester. This collaboration provides students with a seamless transition to a four-year university, allowing them to earn a bachelor's degree while remaining in their community.
A History of Growth and Adaptation
On August 23, 1915, Charles Mayo made a motion at a meeting of the Rochester (MN) School Board to add two years of university work to the high school. The board voted unanimously for adoption.[citation needed] The original school consisted of four faculty members and 17 students. Classes were held in what was called the “University Department” or the “Southern University.” In June 1917, Rochester Junior College (RJC) graduated its first 10 students at a joint commencement program with the high school. After joining the Minnesota State Junior College System, Rochester Junior College's name was changed in 1964 to Rochester State Junior College (RSJC).
The start of what was to become Rochester Area Vocational Technical Institute dates back to 1944 when adult vocational classes were first introduced as part of the Rochester Evening College. By 1966 construction of a separate facility for RSJC was underway. The original technical college building of 78,000 square feet was completed in 1969. When the technical college opened in 1969, it offered 15 program majors and enrolled 213 students. In 1971 a 14,000 square feet addition to the technical college doubled the size of the cafeteria, added four classrooms and a carpentry shop, and expanded the machine shop. A 70,000 square foot, two-story addition to the technical college was completed in 1987 and provided facilities to accommodate the move toward the restructured, credit-based delivery of instruction. It included classrooms and labs for all health and services programs, classrooms for the custom training services division, a child-care center, student commons, media center, reading room, student services office, and offices for administration. In 1989, Rochester Technical Institute was renamed Rochester Technical College.
Continuing Education and Custom Training
RCTC also offers a number of continuing education and custom training program for individuals, business, and industry. These programs provide opportunities for lifelong learning and professional development, helping individuals and organizations stay competitive in today's rapidly changing world.
Athletics
The RCTC Yellowjackets are the athletics team of RCTC athletic program. The Yellowjackets are members of the Minnesota College Athletic Conference and the National Junior College Athletic Association.
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Campus Development
Construction of a replacement for Memorial and Plaza Halls began in 2018. The $22.9 million project features construction of new space, renovation of existing spaces, and demolition of four buildings including Plaza Hall, Memorial Hall, the old Maintenance Garage, and the old Child Care Center.
Accreditation
RCTC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. This accreditation ensures that RCTC meets rigorous standards of quality and effectiveness, providing students with a valuable and respected education.
Important Considerations
The information in this catalog is for use as an academic planning tool and is subject to change at any time. Rochester Community and Technical College reserves the right to change any information, including a statement of fees, course offerings, and admission and graduation requirements, without notice or obligation. When such changes occur, every reasonable effort will be made to notify the student body.
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