VVC has several centers, programs, and services to help you thrive during your academic journey. Please read through the academic and personal support services we offer and reach out to the programs and services that can benefit you.
Academic Support Centers and Programs
Student Engagement Centers
The Student Engagement Centers are located in Building 21, the Advanced Technology Center, and are the place for you to connect with other students, instructional faculty, counseling faculty, peer mentors, and your Student Success Team! Each Student Engagement Center is designed to support students pursuing similar majors, or RamPaths. Whether you’re pursuing a major in STEM, Business, Law, Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, Public Safety, or Industrial Technology, there is an Engagement Center for you! The centers are more than just a physical space. They were created to be dynamic hubs where students can thrive academically, connect with campus resources, and learn more about various career fields. Whether you need to meet with a counselor, have questions about resources available to you, or just want a place to hang out, we invite you to come see us! We are open Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 5:00pm. You can also find out more information about us online.
Access Resource Center (ACCESS)
The ACCESS Resource Center is located in the One Stop Center, Building 23. The program provides accommodations and counseling services to assist students with disabilities achieve their educational goals, by facilitating equitable access to the community college experience. ACCESS is not special education; the ACCESS program is subject to Section 504 and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Students interested in receiving services must complete an ACCESS application and return it to our office with supporting documentation verifying disability.
Who may be eligible?
Students with disabilities that impact the ability to participate academically in general education, may be eligible for ACCESS services. Examples of qualifying disabilities may include but are not limited to: mobility, visual, hearing, speech, psychological, learning and developmental and intellectual disabilities as well as other health impairments. Students with verification of temporary disabilities may also be eligible for services.
Services
The ACCESS Resource Center offers students with disabilities a variety of computer software, designed to provide access, despite environmental technological barriers. Screen readers, speech-to-text, and Adapted software application are some of the technology available in the ACCESS lab. Additional support services include sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, materials in alternate format and testing accommodations are some of the services available.
ACCESS Courses
ACCESS courses in the area of disability related topics designed to provide information, support, and learning strategies to students with disabilities.
These courses are subject to change but may include:
- DVST 50 Learning Disability Assessment This course offers group and/or individual testing; basic instruction in study skills academic accommodations and learning styles
- DVST 52 Orientation to College for Students With Disabilities Information and assistance for students with disabilities transitioning to college
- DVST 01 Language Analysis Development 01, DVST 02 Language Analysis Development 02, DVST 03 Language Analysis Development 03 These courses provide activities designed to address language based learning disabilities
- DVST 04A Basic Math Reasoning and DVST 04B Developmental Algebra These courses addresses the perceptual and language deficits that can interfere with understanding mathematical concepts and operations
How to Apply?
Complete a Victor Valley College admissions applications application online at the VVC website. Request an ACCESS application from the ACCESS Department in building 23. You will also need to provide proof of your disability from a licensed or certified professional (forms are available at the ACCESS Office or ACCESS webpage). If you have a learning disability, bring a copy of your most recent Psychological-Educational Report and IEP. For further information contact ACCESS at (760) 245-4271 ext. 2212, access@vvc.edu or visit the ACCESS website.
CalWORKs
CalWORKs is a program that provides additional support to students actively receiving County aid (CalWORKs/TANF). CalWORKs aims to help students achieve educational goals, including degrees and/or certificates. Students participating in the CalWORKs program receive priority registration and support with counseling, purchasing books & supplies, transportation, parking permits, and childcare. CalWORKs also has a work-study program that provides students with opportunities to work for local employers to develop skills, improve professionalism and meet their state-required activity hours without affecting their aid. For more information, stop by the CalWORKs Office in Building 23, or call (760) 245-4271, ext. 2592.
Please note: To enroll in the CalWORKS program, contact your assigned County Employment Services Specialist or visit the CalWORKs office in Building 23.
COOPERATIVE AGENCIES RESOURCES FOR EDUCATION (C.A.R.E.)
What is C.A.R.E.?
C.A.R.E. is an education support program for single parents that is funded by the State of California.
Who is eligible?
A student who…
- Is a California resident and have a financial need
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be enrolled in at least 12 or more units in the fall or spring semester with the exception of being in ACCESS, NextUp, Foster Youth, or in the Nursing/Respiratory Program.
- Be considered single and head of household by AFDC or TANF
- Be a recipient of AFDC or TANF
- Have at least one child under the age of fourteen (14).
C.A.R.E. provides special services such as:
Book and Supply Service (A/R Credit), Counseling, Orientation, Priority Registration, Student Assistance, Transferring Assistance, Referrals to on and off campus programs, Transportation Grants, and Vendor Cards
The Communication Center
Located upstairs in the Performing Arts Center, Building 54, Room 213, the Communication Center assistants are trained to work with students, individually or as a group, in the various stages of speech and/or oral presentation development including brainstorming techniques, research, organization, speech composition, and incorporation of visual aids. Additionally the center offers individual and group appointments for presentation practice and feedback providing students with specific suggestions for overall improvement. The center also provides Spanish tutoring services during the Fall and Spring semesters as well.
Services currently offered by the center include: speech composition and delivery, development of effective visual aids, taping and viewing services, printing, scanning, navigation of the Canvas platform, and Power Point instruction. The center is annexed into several strategic areas including the simulated classroom that allows students to familiarize themselves with the surroundings and equipment they will encounter when giving a presentation, multiple computer workstations with Internet and Microsoft Office access, five breakout rooms that can be reserved by individuals or groups of students. It is not necessary for the students to be enrolled in a Communication Studies class in order to access the center. For more information you may contact the Communication Center at (760) 245-4271, ext. 2820 during the Fall and Spring Semesters for hours of operation and other information. You can also find us on the Communication Center website.
Counseling Services
Counseling services are available to all students. Students are invited to come in for confidential help in strengthening academic performance, selecting an educational major, developing educational and career plans, solving situational problems, and improving self-understanding.
Career Planning
Counselors can assist students with exploring career options. Students are also encouraged to enroll in a career planning class, GUID 103. This educational planning class helps students discover their own interests, attitudes, values, and will help them make an initial career choice.
Victor Valley College offers a major and career exploration survey for students on Career Coach. Students can find majors and careers that not only match their interests and goals, but they can also explore careers and majors that relate to specific occupational fields. This quick survey links students interests and preferences to majors and certificates offered at the college. Start exploring now!
Academic Counseling
Counselors are available to help students plan their long and short-term educational goals, and then match classes and majors to their particular needs and interests. Information on the college’s requirements for certificates of achievement and graduation with an associate degree is available, as is help in determining transfer requirements to other schools.
Social/Personal Development Counseling
All through life, people must fit into society, both at work and in their leisure time. To make this process easier for students, the College offers both individual consultations with a counselor and special group sessions through the personal development courses, such as, GUID 101 First Year Experience, GUID 103 Career Exploration and Life Planning, GUID 105 Personal & Career Success and GUID 107 Learning Strategies and Study Skills.
The College maintains a staff of professionally educated counselors to serve its students. Counseling services are available to every student and member of the college community. With professional counselors, students may explore freely and in confidence concerns which are important to them.
CSU San Bernardino's Air Force ROTC
Through arrangements with California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), students may participate in the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) program. Aerospace Studies classes and Leadership Laboratories are conducted each Friday on the main campus of CSU-San Bernardino.
Air Force ROTC is a college-level program designed to select and train highly qualified men and women to become commissioned Air Force officers. After graduation from college and completion of all Air Force ROTC requirements, cadets are commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Air Force. Typical service is four years; however, service duration for pilots, navigators and nurses is longer. These individuals serve in a broad range of careers to include actual flying, engineering, administration and a host of other fields, depending on the individual’s academic background.
To enter Air Force ROTC, an individual must have at least two years of college remaining, which may include graduate study. In addition, the individual must be a United States citizen prior to entering the last two years of the program, be available to pass an Air Force medical exam, be of high moral character and be in good academic standing in school. Entry into the last two years of the program is on a competitive basis. Students are required to graduate with a bachelor’s degree, in any academic major, and complete one of the two program options. AFTROTC offers 2, 3, and 4-year scholarships of up to $15,000, but scholarships are not required to participate in the program. AFROTC cadets under scholarship and all juniors and seniors receive a $300- $500 per month tax-free stipend, plus a $900 textbook allowance each year. Currently, CSU-SB does not charge for courses. No military commitment is incurred until entering the last two years of the program (Professional Officer Course) or accepting an AFROTC scholarship.
Classes consist of one hour of academics plus two hours of leadership laboratory for freshman and sophomores. Juniors and seniors will have three hours of academics plus two hours of leadership laboratory. The academic hours earned can normally be counted as elective credit toward graduation. All AFROTC classes and laboratories are held on Fridays to better accommodate students commuting from other colleges and universities.
For more information, contact the California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) Department of Aerospace Studies (AFROTC) at (909) 537-5440. Details are also available on the CSUSB AFROTC website.
Extended Opportunity Program and Services (EOPS)
What is E.O.P.S.?
The purpose of E.O.P.S. is to encourage the enrollment and retention of students who are educationally and economically disadvantaged. E.O.P.S. will assist these students in successfully completing a vocational certificate, an AA/AS degree, or in transferring to a four-year college or university.
Who is eligible?
- A student who…
- Is a California resident
- Is educationally disadvantaged
- Has applied for Financial Aid
- Is eligible for the Promise Grant A or B
- Is enrolled in 12 or more units in the Fall or Spring with the exception of being identified as an Access or NextUp student.
- Has not received an Associate’s Degree (AA/AS) or completed more than 70 applicable units from any college, including Victor Valley College.
E.O.P.S. provides special services such as:
Book and Supply Service (A/R Credit), Counseling, Orientation, Priority Registration, Student Assistance, Transferring Assistance, Referrals, Vendor Cards
To apply for EOPS, students must submit an application to the EOPS Office, located in Building 23. Office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Fridays 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Summer: Monday through Thursday 8:00-5:00 p.m.
Math Success Center
Math Success Center Location and Hours of Operation:
Located in the Advanced Technology Center (Bldg. 21 Room 145, Room 146)
Phone: (760) 245-4271 ext. 2788 or contact ext. 2623 (Anh Weis)
Hours of Operation: Monday – Thursday 9:00am – 7:00 pm and Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Math Success Center Pledge
Student success is our goal in the Math Success Center. Students are first, and we will ensure you receive all the help and knowledge you need to pass your class. We take your education seriously and commit to assist you with all of your math needs. We strive to be helpful, patient, positive, encouraging, and professional. We are dedicated to helping you succeed in all of your classes by providing you with our outstanding tutoring services that include:
- Walk-In Tutoring
- One on One Appointment
- Test Correction
- Reserve Study Group Room
- Study-A-Thon Event
- Faculty Mentoring
- Faculty Office Hours
Math Success Center Mission
The mission of the VVC Math Success Center is to offer student-centered academic support. The Center provides tutoring services and resources to help students who struggle in mathematics to succeed in completing their class. In cooperation with math faculty and tutors, the Center provides walk-in, one-on-one appointments, workshops, and Q & A as well as test reflection sessions. The Math Center faculty and tutors strive to maximize academic potential and promote student success, retention, collaboration, and excellence.
NextUp
NextUp, formerly known as CAFYES (Cooperating Agencies Foster Youth Educational Support), provides students with resources that make a difference. The program offers eligible current and former foster youth who attend Victor Valley College with support and services that could include help with books and supplies, transportation, tutoring, food and emergency housing. Our purpose is to give the necessary support and resources to ensure our students will achieve postsecondary success through earning a credential and/or preparing for transfer to a four-year college or university.
We are located in Building 10B which is on upper campus off Bear Valley Rd. and Spring Valley Pkwy.
CALL: (760)245-4271 ext 2929
TEXT: (760) 515-9025
EMAIL: NextUp@vvc.edu
ZOOM: NextUp Zoom Room
NextUp Website
The Writing Center
Located in the Advanced Technology Center, Building 21, Room 143, students are invited to drop in to the Writing Center to get help with and work on their writing projects, no appointments necessary. Staff and student tutors are trained to work with students on a variety of writing tasks, everything from getting started to drafting essays to revising for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors.
The Writing Center holds workshops on writing strategies every day and provides computer access and reference texts to help students. Fall and spring hours are Monday through Thursday 8:30-7:00 and Friday 8:30-4:00; winter and summer hours vary. For further information on services and hours of operation, call (760) 245-4271, extension 2607. For those students not regularly on campus, visit the Writing Center website.
Personal Support Centers and Programs
Basic Needs (Thrive Resource Center)
THRIVE Resource Center supports students with the essential resources to thrive here at Victor Valley College. Safe and secure access to food, housing, and health care are critical to your academic success. If you struggle with these basic needs, you are not alone. These resources can help, so you can focus on learning.
To get connected to basic needs resources below please complete a THRIVE Resource Request Form on the Basic Needs and Wellness website.
- Food Pantry (The Peak)
- The Peak Food Pantry is open to all currently enrolled Victor Valley College students who are experiencing food insecurity. Drop by and pick up a breakfast, lunch, snack, and water to get you through your classes for the day. For more information, please call 760-245-4271 ext. 3663.
- Assistance for Students Experiencing Homelessness
- Currently enrolled VVC students who are experiencing homelessness may be able to receive assistance with housing support. If you need assistance, please submit a THRIVE Resource Request Form on the Basic Needs and Wellness website.
- Hygiene & Showers
- VVC students who need access to showers and hygiene kits may check in at the Food Pantry during their business hours to get assistance.
- School Supplies
- May by available for current students. Check in at the Food Pantry for assistance.
- On & Off-Campus Resources
- A list of on and off-campus basic needs resources can be accessed on our website.
Contact Us:
CALL: (760) 245-4271 ext. 2933
EMAIL: Basic.Needs@vvc.edu
Thrive Basic Needs and Wellness
Career/Transfer Center
Students interested in obtaining career information or transfer options should visit our center and meet with a counselor.
Career Center
Students interested in career exploration should visit the Career Center (co-located with the Transfer Center) to take advantage of the wealth of information available there. Trained staff, utilizing computerized guidance programs and professional publications, will assist you with career research. A library of career related materials such as reference books and career websites can be used to discover career alternatives. Online assessments are also available to help students identify career interests and educational goals. The Career Center also hosts various workshops throughout the year to help students learn about internships, career preparation and exploration. Visit us in Building 23 (hours may vary by academic term. For further information, call (760) 245-4271 ext. 2138, or visit the Career Center
Transfer Center
Students who plan to transfer to a four-year university to earn a bachelor’s degree after attending VVC should visit the Career/Transfer Center. Students can meet with the transfer counselor, may schedule appointments to meet one-on-one with university representatives, research institutions and majors for potential transfer, request university general education certifications, and attend trips to tour university campuses. In addition, the Career/Transfer Center provides a variety of transfer-related workshops, and staff will help students to fill out transfer admissions applications and complete all the steps necessary for a smooth transition. Visit us in Building 23 (hours may vary by academic term). For further information, call (760) 245-4271 ext. 2138, or visit the Transfer Center website.
Mental Health
If you or someone you care about needs to speak to someone or is in crisis and needs immediate help, please call National suicide prevention lifeline 1-800-273-8255 open 24/7. If emergency medical care is needed, call 911 or go to the hospital.
Victor Valley College provides services and resources to support the psychological and emotional health of our students. Our mental health and counseling services offer support and strive to help students achieve their academic, personal and professional goals.
Services
- Weekly access to FREE on-campus drop-in counseling and workshops
- Wellness Central (located in your student Canvas account). Free health and wellness resource for students! Explore the 6 Dimensions of Wellness and learn about what resources are available for each dimension.
- Connection with On and Off-Campus Resources
Contact Us
CALL: (760) 245-4271 ext. 2933
EMAIL: Basic.Needs@vvc.edu
Mental Health & Wellness
Outreach
K16 Bridge Program
Teachers, counselors, and administrators originally designed VVC’s K16 Bridge Program to increase the number of students successfully transitioning to a post-secondary institution. High Desert high schools participating in the program work closely with Victor Valley College staff to ensure every student can take advantage of post-secondary education in academic and CTE fields.
The K16 Bridge Program meets the Student Success Act requirements for matriculation and is developing programs to help students better prepare for college in math and English. Students participating in the program are eligible for Block 2B priority registration during their first semester at VVC. All High Desert K-12 schools in the VVC region are eligible to participate.
Student Services Computer Lab
The Student Services Lab located in Building 23 is primarily for new students that are completing the application/registration and financial aid process. Students are able to print documents related for student services purposes and are allowed to complete the following items below:
- Apply for admissions (CCCAPPLY)
- MyVVC Password Reset
- Complete online orientation and placement survey
- Complete and/or update financial aid (FAFSA) application
- Registration for classes through Navigate
- Add or Drop classes
- Access EOPS and/or CalWORKs Application materials
Student Activities
Many activities and services are available to students who attend Victor Valley College. College services help facilitate each student’s educational career and should make college life more pleasant and productive while students pursue their educational goals.
Student Body Privileges
Every student enrolled at Victor Valley College is a member of the student body and is entitled to participate in both academic and extracurricular activities at the college.
The Associated Student Body (ASB) is the organization which constitutes official membership in the community of students at Victor Valley College.
ASB fees are $10 for all students during the Fall and Spring Semester and $5 during the Winter Intersession and Summer Session. These fees are used to support the Athletic programs, Theatre Arts productions, student events and also afford the student availability to scholarship programs, community discounts and access to the ASB Computer Lab.
Students receive an ASB card which entitles them to free admission to all VVC dance, music and theater performances, discounts to other activities, and free copies of the Victor Valley College newspaper/newsletter and other campus publications such as the college viewbook. In addition, ASB card holders are eligible to compete for Associated Student awards, scholarships, and to hold office in student government.
Student Clubs
Clubs for students with a variety of special interests are an on-going part of campus life. A complete listing of clubs is available from the Office of the Associated Student Body (ASB) located in the Student Activities Center (SAC), Building 44. Students interested in a particular activity find that campus clubs are a good way to meet other students and share ideas and information. Interested students may join a club of their choice by contacting the club’s president or advisor. Among the clubs on campus are the Adventurer’s Fantasy, American Sign Language, Archery, Base 11, Black Student Union, Be Your Own Creator, Child Development, "CNSA” California Nursing Student Association", Christian Club, Gamer’s Guild Esports, Gender & Sexuality Alliance, Geo Science, Model United Nations, Music Club, Phi Theta Kappa, Pre-Health Scholars, Psychology, Rams Real Estate, Ready Rams, and Respiratory Therapy Club.
Student Government
As members of the Associated Student Body of Victor Valley College, all students are eligible to vote for student representatives to student government and to participate in the government of their campus.
Elections for the ASB Council are held in the spring of each year. ASB election information is available through the ASB office located on the 2nd floor of the Student Activities Center. ASB Council meets on a regular basis and determines social policies and program activities for students at Victor Valley College. Students on campus are encouraged to bring matters of interest before the council or to sit in on student council meetings.
According the ASB Constitution, ASB students who are taking six or more units with a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 are eligible to run for office or be appointed to student government positions.
The student council’s executive board consists of a President, Vice President, Executive Senator, Secretary and Treasurer.
Triage, Engagement, and Support Teams (TEST)
The Triage, Engagement and Support Teams (TEST) is a field based, short term intensive case management program to help you get connected to needed behavioral health, substance abuse treatment and additional community resources to increase access to services.
We can help you connect with:
Mental health treatment, Medication support, Substance abuse treatment, Support groups/12-step, Medical insurance, Medical care, Public benefits, Housing resources and much, much more!