E-Learning
Mount Vernon: 360.416.6651
Toll free number: 1.877.385.5360
Can’t Come To Campus? Let Us Come To You!
Skagit Valley College (SVC) is dedicated to providing students quality education in a flexible format that suits their learning needs. With this in mind, the college offers a wide selection of courses that are fully online (eLearning), hybrid, and face-to-face. The online (eLearning) and hybrid courses at SVC are academically rigorous and equivalent to traditional face-to-face courses. They are the same in terms of credits, learning objectives, competencies, content, and transferability. They also follow the same policies concerning admission requirements and are on the same academic calendar.
- Fully online courses - Students are not required to come on campus or to attend online meetings at a particular time. Students access course content via a course management system and work with their classmates using engaging technology from anywhere and anytime they have internet access.
- Hybrid courses - This format combines face-to-face instruction and a significant amount of self-directed learning done online when it is convenient for students. The hybrid format provides an opportunity to take advantage of both the face-to-face and online formats. For example, a traditional 5 credit class will usually meet 4 times per week. When converted into a hybrid course, half of those weekly sessions might be replaced by work done independently in an online course management system.
- Face-to-face courses - Traditional format where classroom instruction takes place on campus at set hours and days of the week; student attendance is expected. Almost all face-to-face classes use online technology (for example, email, website resources, online videos, and a learning management system) to enhance the learning experience.
Visit eLearning at SVC to explore online degree options and available support services.
Developmental Education
Many students entering college or returning after some time away from studies need and want additional instruction to prepare for college-level courses. SVC offers both tutorial services and various levels of courses in foundational mathematics, reading, and writing. These courses are numbered below 100 and, although taken for credit, are not counted toward a college degree.
SVC also offers multiple courses using the Integrated Basic Education and Skills (I-BEST) model. I-BEST classes support student success by providing two instructors. One instructor is the content expert for the course, and the second instructor provides additional support in reading, writing, and math during the college course. I-BEST classes are 100 level and above, and count towards college degrees and certificates.
Basic Education for Adults
Basic Education for Adults (BEdA) serves students who want to improve English language skills; complete a high school diploma; prepare for the GED® (General Educational Development) exams; and/or improve academic skills in reading, writing and math to prepare for transition to college level courses. Basic Education offers English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) , College and Career Bridge (CCB) , HS+ Adult High School Diploma (HSC) courses, and Integrated Basic Education and Skills (I-BEST) course options.
English for Speakers of Other Languages
Classes in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and English for Academic Purposes (EAP) provide language instruction to speakers of other languages.
ESOL offers beginning, intermediate, and advanced classes primarily for English Language Learners living in our community. Classes emphasize listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Job readiness is a component of all ESOL courses, as well as the practical use of English in everyday life. Students in upper levels are encouraged to pursue additional educational opportunities such as I-BEST, College and Career Bridge (CCB), High School Completion (HSC), English for Academic Purposes (EAP), and/or college certificates and degrees.
EAP courses are offered to international students and other English learners in conjunction with or preparation for entering college credit programs. EAP courses provide students with the language skills needed to succeed in Academic and Professional/Technical studies at SVC.
Externships and Practicums
Externships and/or practicums are required for some academic programs. These courses contribute to a significant applied, hands-on learning focus for the degree/certificate, giving students real-world experience that they can bring to future jobs. Externship locations, course credits, and student expectations vary depending on the program of study. Specific information is available from the instructor and is listed within the program information in the catalog. Students participating in externships may be required to pay for general liability insurance.
Running Start
Running Start is a cooperative effort between Skagit Valley College (SVC) and local high schools. This dual credit program allows eligible high school juniors and seniors to enroll in college classes and earn high school and college credits simultaneously.
Running Start students may take SVC classes during the school day, in the evening, or through online learning. Students can enroll part-time or full-time depending on their academic and career goals. Students earn college credit upon successful completion of course requirements. Credits may apply toward high school graduation requirements as determined by the student’s high school. Many college-level credits are transferable to other colleges and universities; however, students should consult with their intended transfer institution regarding transferability of credits.
Homeschool students may participate in Running Start by enrolling through their local public school district for state funding eligibilty. Students must complete the necessary paperwork to access Running Start funding.
To participate in Running Start, students must be classified as a junior or senior, as determined by the high school. Students are encouraged to speak with their families, their high school counselor, and attend a Running Start Information Session prior to enrolling in Running Start.
The admissions and enrollment process for Running Start includes submitting an online SVC application, submitting a transcript or taking an exam to establish course placement, activating MySVC account, attending a New Student Registration, and submitting a completed Running Start Enrollment Verification Form (quarterly). To learn more about applying to Running Start, please visit www.skagit.edu/academics/high-school-programs/running-start/college-for-high-schoolers.html.
A completed Running Start Enrollment Verification Form (RSEVF) must be submitted to the college each quarter before a Running Start student can enroll in courses. The form must be signed by a parent/guardian if the student is under 18 years old, a high school counselor or district representative, and the student prior to submitting it to SVC each quarter.
Tuition and fee waivers may be available for students who qualify based on free/reduced price lunch (FRPL) status at the high school or other income documentation. This waiver covers the cost of eligible tuition and fees only and does not cover any other costs of attendance. Students are responsible for paying additional tuition and fees if they enroll in credits above their quarterly limit, as well as applicable college and course fees, books, supplies, and materials.
Running Start students must comply with all SVC policies, procedures, course prerequisites, academic standards, and adhere to the SVC Student Code of Conduct. Students are expected to monitor course schedules and SVC’s important dates and deadlines to understand the impact of college enrollment on graduation requirements and future transfer plans.
Open Doors
Open Doors is a competency-based high school completion program for eligible individuals who are 16-20 years of age who are deficient in high school credits. High school competency requirements may be met through high school and college coursework. Unmet requirements may be achieved through additional coursework at SVC. Open Doors students must be referred by a local school district partner.
High School Diploma
There are three ways to earn a high school diploma from SVC:
- Adult High School Completion: An individual who satisfactorily meets the high school requirements as determined by the college shall be awarded a diploma from the college, subject to rules adopted by the Superintendent of Public Instruction and the State Board of Education.
- Upon Completion of an Associate Degree: An individual 16 years or older who enrolls in the college for the purpose of obtaining an associate degree and who satisfactorily completes an associate degree, including an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science Transfer (AS-T), Associate in Education (A.Ed.), Associate in Technical Arts (ATA), Associate in Applied Science (AAS), or Associate in Applied Science Transfer (AAS-T), shall be awarded a Washington State high school diploma from the college upon request from the student. (These individuals are not required to complete the State Board of Education’s graduation requirements.)
- HS+ Adult High School Diploma: Individuals who have not yet obtained their high school diploma and are over the age of 18, can obtain a competency-based high school diploma through the HS+ diploma program. Students between 16-18 years of age will need a release from their local public high school. High school competency requirements may be met through prior learning in high school or college coursework or work, life, and/or military experience.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) Dual Credit
CTE Dual Credit courses are available to 9th - 12th grade students who are enrolled in specific high school classes that are articulated with SVC. Courses are taught by high school instructors who use SVC’s course outcomes. If students complete the course with the required grade and skills, they may also receive SVC credit. These courses are part of a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program that can lead to a college certificate or degree. CTE Dual Credit students gain tremendous advantages by preparing for their post-secondary education while in high school. They may pursue the credential that is right for them, whether it be an associate or bachelor’s degree, or a post-secondary industry certification. For more information, please visit the CTE Dual Credit web page.
College in the High School
College in the High School (CHS) is a cooperative effort between Skagit Valley College (SVC) and local high schools. This dual credit program provides college-level academic courses to 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students in their high school. SVC’s College in the High School program is accredited by the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships.
Courses must be articulated with SVC, and CHS teachers must meet the same qualification as SVC instructors. CHS courses are equivalent to SVC courses and are taught at the high school by qualified high school teachers. Students earn college credit upon successful completion of course requirements. Credits may apply toward high school graduation requirements as determined by the student’s high school. Many college-level credits are transferable to other colleges and universities; however, students should consult with their intended transfer institution regarding transferability of credits.
Students must apply to SVC, meet course prerequisites, register for the course, and satisfactorily complete the course to earn college credit. For more information, please visit the College in the High School web page.
Apprenticeship Programs
A multi-year program of paid, on-the-job training and related supplemental instruction. Includes classroom training covering multiple approved apprenticeship programs at Dakota Creek Industries. Only current Dakota Creek Industries employees are eligible to participate. For more information, please visit https://dakotacreek.com/.
- Electrician Apprenticeship
A five-year program of paid, on-the-job training and related supplemental instruction. Includes classroom training covering all phases of electrical work leading to Journeyman status. Veteran’s Administration (VA) approved. Must be a current apprentice with the NWEJATC to participate. For more information, please visit www.nwejatc.org.
Cooperative Education
Mount Vernon: 360.416.7774
Email: coop@skagit.edu
Cooperative (co-op) education takes the student out of the classroom and into the world of work, where students complete an academic internship. Co-op bridges the gap between theory and practice, where students apply skills learned in the classroom in a work-based setting.
The program is a requirement for most Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees. Measurable learning outcomes are collaboratively developed by the student, faculty mentor, and employer through an internship learning contract. Students develop skills and qualities for success in the workplace, such as work ethic, critical thinking, and problem solving.
Opportunities normally exist for both volunteer and paid positions. Students must complete at least 33 work hours per credit. In addition to their work-based learning hours, students complete online reflection-based activities, with an evaluation process at the end of the term. Students interested in internships are strongly encouraged to plan ahead to secure a placement in their field of study prior to beginning the course. For more information, contact Joe Amaral, Cooperative Education Coordinator, at the phone number above or at coop@skagit.edu.
Learning Into Action
Mount Vernon: 360.416.7774
Transfer degree-seeking students have the opportunity to synthesize and put the knowledge and skills they have learned into practice in an applied learning environment. Students may complete a one-credit, 30-hour project which allows them to creatively apply their knowledge, acquired skills, and critical thinking. Potential projects include community service, original research, study abroad, campus-related activities, foreign travel, work study, thesis papers, mentoring, working with external agencies, visiting/developing exhibits, or capstone projects. Students may participate in either individual or collaborative projects, and carry out their projects in consultation with a faculty sponsor.
For more information, contact Joe Amaral, Cooperative Education Coordinator, at the phone number above, or at Joe.Amaral@skagit.edu. (Running Start students outside of the Mount Vernon School District would need High School counselor permission prior to enrollment.)
Parent Education
Mount Vernon: 360.416.7635
Whidbey Island: 360.679.5347
The Family Life program offers parents and families the opportunity for parenting support, education, and involvement in a developmentally appropriate toddler or cooperative preschool program. Participate in your child’s social and intellectual development and increase your knowledge of child development, health and safety, and much more. For more information, contact Alexis Meyers, Family Life program coordinator, at Alexis.Meyers@skagit.edu.
Community Programs
Continuing and Community Education: 360.416.7638
Website: https://www.skagit.edu/continuing-community-education/
Community members may sign up for non-credit classes and workshops relating to personal enrichment, professional development, and industry certification through Continuing and Community Education (CCE) program. These courses are designed to be accessible, affordable, and offered at convenient times - including evenings and weekends. Students do not need to apply to Skagit Valley College or be a current student to participate in these courses. A CCE course must meet enrollment minimums in order to run, and courses are not eligible for financial aid or waivers.
The Continuing & Community Education program is self-sustaining and not eligible for waivers. For more information, contact the CCE Office at 360.416.7638 or email at communityed@skagit.edu.
You may earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs), contact hours, or required certifications to maintain your professional license through the CCE program. Students are encouraged to communicate with the CCE department prior to participating, to ensure a course is eligible for CEUs.
Serving the Business Community
Customized Training for Businesses: 360.416.7638
Email: customizedtraining@skagit.edu
See also: https://www.skagit.edu/community/training-for-business/
SVC provides efficient and effective training with an eye on the bottom line and a plan to help develop a company’s most important asset - its employees. Businesses can request customized training options which can be delivered on-site at your business, online, or at any of our training locations. Instructors are subject matter experts with extensive industry experience, who can provide a complete range of high-quality customized training solutions for businesses, non-profits, and government agencies. Funding for training may be available for eligible businesses and organizations.
Foreign Travel
Credit may be earned either through coursework associated with organized trips sponsored by the college or through independent travel, enrollment in foreign educational institutions, or through international exchange programs.
Independent Study
Independent study may be achieved through individual instructors for one to five credits per quarter. Independent study is limited to one course per quarter. The course numbers are 251-255 in the department in which the work is done, and may be repeated for credit. An independent study form may be obtained from Enrollment Services and must be signed by the instructor, Department/Division Chair, and Dean prior to enrollment.
Honors and Graduation
Honor Roll
Per SVC Policy 5325 - Academic Honors, students will be placed on the quarterly honor roll if they have earned a quarterly GPA of 3.75 or higher for at least 12 credits of graded-basis courses.
Honors & High Honors
Students graduating with an associate’s degree or certificate requiring 45 credits or more will receive honors for a cumulative Skagit Valley College (SVC) GPA of 3.50 to 3.79 and high honors for a cumulative SVC GPA of 3.80 to 4.0 in courses numbered 100 and above. Transfer credits are not part of the cumulative SVC GPA and are not calculated for honors or high honors.
President’s Medal
Students graduating with an associate’s degree will receive the president’s medal, as a physical object, if they meet the following criteria.
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The student attended at least three quarters at SVC.
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The student earned a cumulative SVC GPA of 3.90 or higher in courses numbered 100 and above.
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The student received an A or A- in all graded-basis courses including courses transferred to SVC with no I, Z, Y, or V grades.
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No graded-basis courses were repeated to exclude lower grades and include higher grades.
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No more than two (2) P grades were earned in graded-basis courses.
BAS Honors: Cum laude, Magna cum laude, Summa cum laude
Students seeking a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree who meet the criteria below at the completion of their final quarter of study will have the following BAS honors designations listed on their transcript. Their GPA calculation will only include program-specific courses (numbered 300 or higher).
Honors Reception
One of the culminating events of every school year is the annual Honors Reception. The Honors Reception is a celebration of both academic achievement and student involvement in campus activities. More information about the Honors Reception may be obtained at the Office for Student Life.
Phi Theta Kappa
Skagit Valley College is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, an international honor society for two-year colleges. The Theta Upsilon Chapter is on the Mount Vernon campus, and the Alpha Omicron Sigma Chapter serves the Whidbey Island campus.
Graduation
Diploma Application
Students are required to submit a graduation application approximately one quarter prior to their final quarter.
A student’s and/or certificate status can be reviewed through a What-If Report (advisement report) in ctcLink.
Degrees and/or certificates will be posted to official transcripts within 4-6 weeks of grades posting for the student’s final quarter. The diploma will be mailed approximately 3-4 weeks after degree and/or certificate posting, and a digital diploma will be available sooner.
Commencement Ceremony
All students who graduated or will be graduating during the current academic year (summer 2026 through spring 2027) are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremony at the end of spring quarter. Students who will graduate after summer 2026 are also encouraged to participate.
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