Keeping a student-centered approach in everything we do, Rosedale Technical College has revamped the class schedule for the daytime programs and is now offering a four-day school week. The new schedule took effect on August 2, 2021.
Class hours will be Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for our daytime programs. The evening programs will continue to operate on their current four-day schedule. The length for both the degree and diploma programs will remain the same.
Here’s four reasons why we decided to transition to a four-day school week.
- Increase Time in Training Labs. At Rosedale Tech, we pride ourselves on providing students with an opportunity to immerse themselves in a variety of hands-on technical training. By extending the hours students spend at school each day, we are increasing the amount of time students in our automotive, diesel technician, auto body repair, electrical, and HVAC degree programs can work in the labs. “Students should begin to experience more productive days in class with less interruptions, which will provide them with more momentum in their training activities,” said Director of Education Kara Chan.
Our welding technician program has served as the test variable for this transition. The welding program has been piloting this four-day week schedule for the past 2 years and has shown positive results. Now all of our technical degree programs as well as our 10-week commercial drivers license (CDL) program will move forward with this schedule. - Increase Availability for Employment While in School. While in school, many of our students obtain full-time or part-time employment, a lot of which include jobs within their field of study. Ending the school day at 3:30 p.m. and having Fridays free will allow for students to more easily manage employment outside of school hours. Students seeking employment while attending school can work with Rosedale Tech’s Student Success Coordinator, who works with a large database of regional employers looking for skilled workers. Working in your field of study while attending school is a great way to practice skills you are working on in class.
- Save on Travel Expenses. A majority of students who attend Rosedale Tech commute from different areas of western Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. Transitioning to a four-day school week allows for these students to save time traveling as well as money on gas driving to and from school. Those students who live in our off-campus housing and use public transportation to get to school may also save some money on bus fare.
- Additional Opportunities for Professional Development. Rosedale Tech values continuous improvement and encourages faculty and staff to participate in a variety of professional development opportunities. By transitioning to a four-day school week, the college will be able to schedule large group trainings during the day on Friday for faculty and staff. Participating in continuous education programs ensures our faculty and staff are equipped to provide our students with a positive school experience.
Do you think a career in the trades is something you want to pursue? It’s not too late to get started in our fall classes! Contact us today to schedule a tour and get the process started!
*Financial Aid is available to those who qualify. In addition, Rosedale Tech offers various institutional grant programs for those who are eligible.