Online Catalog
Summer Bridge
Summer Bridge is about success - your success in the academic program you've chosen at Vermont Technical College.
"I think doing the summer program helped me to prepare myself for school. I had been out of school for a couple of years and I was not quite prepared for a full college load." - Summer Bridge student comments
Each summer the College offers an intensive, four-week, non-credit review of mathematics, physics or computer skills, study skills and language arts. The Summer Bridge program is for any newly-admitted student whose skills in these areas need some strengthening - whether you're fresh out of high school or returning to school after years on the job or raising a family.
"I think the type of student who would benefit from Bridge are people who need that extra push to help them out in school, and for people who are bordering and are not sure if they really want to go to college." - Summer Bridge student comments
The program provides academic preparation designed to leave students equipped for success and ready to take on a college-level challenge at the start of classes in the fall. Summer Bridge usually runs from the middle of July to the middle of August. Classes follow a full-day schedule each week, and housing and meals are available for students who choose to live on campus during the program.
How do I enroll in Summer Bridge?
The Vermont Tech Admissions Office and the Placement Committee recommend placement in the Summer Bridge program. This placement is based on the following criteria:
- High school and/or college academic GPA and level of courses taken
- SAT or ACT scores
- Vermont Tech placement test scores
"When I first heard about Summer Bridge I thought it would be a good way to get ahead in school. I got to know people before school even started so I didn't feel so alone. I also got to know the campus better so I wasn't lost." - Summer Bridge student comments
Any student who has not recently been enrolled in math, science or language arts courses, or who lacks confidence in their abilities to successfully complete these courses, may be encouraged to enroll in Bridge as preparation for their chosen major. Some students elect to attend Bridge even though not required to do so as a part of the admissions process, simply to prepare as thoroughly as possible for a the challenges ahead.
Why should I attend Summer Bridge?
Successful completion of the Summer Bridge Program can save you an extra year of college. A student needing only a summer brush-up in mathematics, for example, could be admitted as a straight acceptance into the major of their choice based on successful completion of Summer Bridge with a "C" or better.
What is my incentive for success?
Summer Bridge is part of Vermont Tech's commitment to your academic success. And those aren't just nice-sounding words. We even offer you this incentive to do well: Enroll in Summer Bridge, and if you complete the first semester in good standing, we'll refund your Summer Bridge Tuition.
Are there other options?
Yes. There are three possible alternatives to Summer Bridge.
Enrolling in one of the Three-Year Options at Vermont Tech.
Attending another college during the summer and retesting for fall entry at Vermont Tech. If this option is taken, students will need pre-approval from the Admissions Office and will need to make arrangements to have their grades sent to Vermont Tech before the beginning of the fall semester.
Vermont Tech's "Introduction to College Math Video Series" can be an alternative to Summer Bridge at the recommendation of the Placement Committee. Check with the Admissions Office for details.