- Who can go to RCHS?
Up to 400 high school juniors and seniors can complete their last two years of high schoolat Richland College, graduating from RCHS, by taking college courses and earning college credits with a focus on mathematics, science, or engineering. RCHS will not admit students who have been suspended from other high schools for disciplinary reasons. Students who live in the following counties are eligible to attend the RCHS:
- Collin County
- Dallas County
- Denton County
- Ellis County
- Kaufman County
- Rockwall County
- Tarrant County
Because of the rigorous academic nature of the college program, the ideal candidate for participation in the RCHS program should:
- Maintain an A or B grade point average at their current high school program
- Complete 12 high school credits by the end of their sophomore year or prior to starting the RCHS program
- Have an interest in mathematics, science, and/or engineering
- Possess good judgment and high level of maturity
- Fulfill appropriate admissions criteria to the college
- Meet minimum test scores to be enrolled in college credit courses (TSI standards)
RCHS may only admit junior-level students; therefore, applicants must have at least 12 high school credits to be admitted into the RCHS program.
- Why should I go to RCHS?
An RCHS student can graduate from Richland College with an Associate of Science degree at the same time as graduating from high school, ready to transfer to a four-year university. RCHS students do not pay for college tuition, textbooks, or their leased laptop computer, making it a great educational and economical choice.
- What do I have to do to be accepted into RCHS?
Visit the RCHS Application to find out more about the admissions process.
All RCHS students are expected to have completed the following high school courses by the end of their sophomore year or prior to starting the college program: English I and II, Algebra I, Geometry, Biology, World Geography, Chemistry or IPC, World History, One or two years of a foreign language (same language), and at least 2 elective credits.
- Who will my instructors be?
RCHS students will only attend classes taught by Richland College professors.
- Will I attend classes with other college students?
RCHS students will attend regular college classes on the Richland campus along with all other college students.
- What is expected of an RCHS student?
RCHS students will take courses in
DCCCD's core curriculum. Don't know what "core curriculum" means? Visit the
Core FAQ Page.
Every RCHS student will attend classes during August, Fall, Spring, and May Terms.
- Students must take five core courses each Fall Term and Spring Term
- Students must take one core course during May Term and an afternoon "mini-course"
- Additionally, each student must take appropriate support courses designed to enhance the RCHS program goals. Courses include:
- Master Student SAT/TAKS Preparation
- Career Investigations
- Personal Finance and Transitions (transitioning to a four-year institution)
- Senior Project
- Math labs (for every semester that the students take math courses)
Additionally, parents of RCHS students will sign a memorandum of understanding that RCHS college-level classes include "adult material and discussions" appropriate at the college level.
- Will I have access to Richland's labs and facilities?
- Will I receive a laptop? If so, how long do I get to keep it?
Each RCHS student will receive a laptop computer for use during his/her two years at the high school.
- Can I participate in extra-curricular activities as an RCHS student?
RCHS students can participate in all student activities at Richland College including the
RCHS Robotics team, choir, several bands and orchestras, theater productions, "The Richland Chronicle," intramurals, athletics, and student government.
- What has RCHS accomplished so far?
The first class of RCHS graduated in May 2008. Over 95% of the class graduated with both a high school diploma and college associate degree. The class of 2008 also successfully accumulated over $2.5 million in scholarships to various colleges and universities, both in and out of state.
- How can I contact the RCHS staff?
The offices of the RCHS principal, counselors/advisors, and office staff offices are located on the first floor of Crockett Hall adjacent to the cafeteria and the College Police offices, encompassing a large open area where students can relax and study between classes.
RCHS Staff
Richland College
12800 Abrams Road
Dallas, TX 75243-2199
Office Phone: 972-761-6888
Fax: 972-761-6890
E-Mail:
mailto:BGaither@dcccd.edu