Hunterdon Central, RVCC partner to offer dual enrollment for biomedical science students
RARITAN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — Hunterdon Central Regional High School and Raritan Valley Community College have formed a new dual enrollment partnership that will allow students in the high school’s Biomedical Science Academy to earn significant college credit while still in high school.
Beginning with the incoming Class of 2030, students enrolled in the Biomedical Science Magnet Academy through Hunterdon Central’s Magnet Program will be able to earn up to 33 college credits during high school. After graduation, participating students may then matriculate to RVCC and complete an Associate of Science degree in Health Science in as little as one additional year.
“Raritan Valley Community College’s expanded partnership with Hunterdon Central Regional High School is a wonderful example of the College’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to students and helping them reduce their higher education costs,” said Shay Wadher, director of K-12 partnerships at Raritan Valley Community College.
Under the program, students follow a guided course sequence within the Biomedical Science Magnet Academy. All courses are approved by RVCC for college credit. Students may apply for dual enrollment each semester, earning credits at a reduced tuition rate of $240 per course for classes taken at the high school, subject to annual change. Full tuition and fees apply once students matriculate to RVCC.
Credits earned through RVCC are transferable to New Jersey state colleges and universities, as well as many institutions nationwide and abroad. Students who complete the associate degree are positioned to transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
“This exciting expansion of our partnership with RVCC offers students a unique bridge to their future: they can dive deep into subjects they love, such as biomedical sciences, and experience college-level rigor with the safety net of high school support,” said Dr. Matthew Hall, director of curriculum and instruction for the Hunterdon Central Regional High School District. “This new program also offers families significant savings on tuition. Plus, for those who finish their associate degree at RVCC, it creates a clear, reliable pathway to top-tier schools like Rutgers University.”
The biomedical science coursework offered through Hunterdon Central and RVCC is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of health science and related industries, increasing career readiness upon college graduation.
“The collaboration between RVCC and Hunterdon Central strengthens the talent pipeline for students interested in pursuing education and training in healthcare and health-related fields,” said Dr. Drue Stapleton, dean of health sciences at Raritan Valley Community College. “This initiative builds on the strong programs within both institutions and helps increase access and opportunity for Hunterdon Central students. The partnership will help students graduate with confidence and momentum toward future study. It also demonstrates a shared commitment between Hunterdon Central Regional High School and RVCC to invest in the next generation of health professionals.”
Students in the incoming Class of 2030 interested in the program are encouraged to work with their school counselors to request enrollment in the Biomedical Science Magnet Academy and follow the required course sequencing. Academies within Hunterdon Central’s Magnet Program do not require an application or entrance exam and are open to students of all academic levels.
Hunterdon Central offers more than 50 courses with dual enrollment agreements through partnerships with institutions including Seton Hall University, Stockton University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Rider University and Raritan Valley Community College.
