Rock Valley College
Rockford, Illinois

Academics

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Whether your plan is to take classes and transfer to a four-year university or enter one of our career programs designed to get you into the workforce right away, Rock Valley College has what you are looking for. Select from one of our more than 60 transfer areas or more than 30 career programs.

» Degree Programs
» Certificate Programs
» Course Descriptions
» Course Schedules
» College Catalog
» Learning and Opportunity Center
» Stenstrom Center Offerings
» Faculty

Course Listing Check out a comprehensive list of courses offered at RVC...

Admission

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At Rock Valley College, you're not just a number. Our highly respected faculty have master's degrees, doctorates and real-world experience. You won't be competing for attention in a huge lecture hall. Our average class size is 21, so you'll get a chance to interact, challenge and be challenged by your instructors.

» Visit Campus
» Getting Started
» For Adult Students
» For HS Counselors
» For Parents
» Financial Aid
» Educational Planning Sessions
» Records & Registration

Get Started! Find out how to get started at RVC! We make it easy for you to pursue your goals...

Student Life

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Have fun. Try stuff. RVC gives you opportunities to get involved. There are lots of student activities to choose from. We offer more than 20 clubs and organizations. Try your hands at student government. Join the staff of our campus newspaper. What's it going to be?

» Campus Activities Board
» Clubs and Organizations
» Get Engaged
» Goose Groups
» Student Government
» Social Media
» Hispanic HS Leadership Conference

Get Engaged! Join a club, attend events, become a student leader. What's your passion?

Student Services

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Whether you are new to the college or know your way around, we have a variety of services designed to help you succeed. We're here for you every step of the way.

» Financial Aid
» Disability Support Services
» Career Services
» Academic and Transfer Advising
» First Year Experience
» Judicial Affairs
» Writing Center
» Tutoring Center

How can we help? Our focus is on student success. We're here to ensure you reach your goals.

Athletics

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RVC competes in NJCAA Division III in men's and women's basketball, women's volleyball, golf, baseball, softball, and men's and women's tennis. Not to brag, but we're pretty good at it. Our teams have won seven national championships and we have had more than 100 All-Americans.

» Athletics Home
» Athletics Staff
» Athletics News
» Schedules
» Baseball
» Men's Tennis
» Softball
» Booster Club

Regional Champs! RVC Softball has won the regional and has advanced to the national tournament, May 16-18!

Library

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The Estelle M. Black Library at Rock Valley College features nearly 75,000 volumes and more than 650 periodicals, and access to the interlibrary loan system. It also features spaces for individual and group study, and if you get thirsty, there's a coffee shop in the lobby!

» Library Home Page
» Library Catalog (Classic)
» Library Catalog (Tomcat)
» Library Databases
» Library FAQs
» Research Guides
» Library Distance Learning Service

Library Catalog Search our online catalog.


1. How do I prepare for the placement test? 

Here is a great online way to prepare for the placement exam.  For a small fee, you may save yourself several courses which mean less time, less tuition, and fewer books to buy.

2. I’m not happy with my placement score.  What can I do?

See the Math Placement webpage to read about your options including retesting, submitting a math appeal, or applying for a math petition.


3. I placed into developmental math.  What can I do?

Developmental classes do not count for college credit.  You have many ways to reduce the number of developmental classes you have to take.  

  • If you’ve earned an A or B in a developmental math class, you may fill out a Math Petition form in the Testing Center to be allowed to retake the placement exam one additional time. (Note: Students will only be allowed to do this ONCE.)
  • Geometry Waivers allow you to skip Geometry if you passed it in high school with a C or better.
  • MTH 096S combines 2 semesters of developmental algebra into one.
  • MTH 096A is a one-semester course that satisfies the algebra and geometry prerequisites for MTH 115 and MTH 220.

4. My class is using MyMathLab.  How do I get started?

Instructions and tips are provided in this handout: Getting Started with MML. Note: You will need a course ID from your instructor.


5. How can I buy books more affordably?  They’re really expensive!

The RVC Math Department is committed to making math classes affordable.  Here are some options:

  • Buy MyMathLab codes online when you register for a course which gives you the code immediately and is the least expensive way.
  • Ask your instructor if the book is required.  You may be able to just buy a MML access code.
  • If you have to buy a book, consider buying it used on half.com or amazon.com.  You don’t need to bid and you can often save $50-100.  Buy a book used and a MyMathLab code online can often cost less than buying a new bundle containing the same items.


6. Are there any online math classes?  My schedule doesn’t allow me to get to campus much.

We have offered online math classes in beginning algebra, intermediate algebra, General Education Math (MTH 115), Precalculus (MTH 132), and Statistics (MTH 220).  More may be added in the near future. Check Online Services to see what online math classes are currently being offered.


7. Where do I get help for my math class?  I’m having trouble.

Rock Valley College wants you to be successful in your math class...

  • Don't hesitate to see your instructor during office hours.
  • Go to the RVC Math Lab for free tutoring by math instructors--no appointment necessary. The Math Lab also has computers where students can do online math homework or view textbook DVDs or online tutorials.
  • Stop by or call the Tutoring Center (Student Center ground floor) to schedule free tutoring services.


8. I’ve got other questions about math classes at RVC.  Can you help?

Our department web site is full of helpful information and more is being added all the time.  Check out the Math Advising page for information on certain special courses or ways courses are offered. You can also contact the instructor for more information.