Qualified eleventh- and twelfth-graders may enroll in career and technical education programs at Bates Technical College, tuition free, through the Running Start program. Students are enrolled simultaneously at Bates and their home high school and earn both high school and college-level credit. Students can enroll full-time or part-time at the college depending on the number of classes and credits they need to graduate.

How Do I Enroll?

• Attend the Running Start orientation
  Orientations are held the first and third Wednesday of each month at 3:30 p.m. at South Campus, room 206BC, 2201 S. 78th St. Tacoma, WA 98409

Students can also obtain Running Start information by calling 253.680.7000 or 253.680.7004.

• Take the entrance test
  A monthly COMPASS schedule is provided at the Running Start orientation. Students can call 253.680.7039 for testing information.
   
• Fill out the application
  Meet with your high school counselor and fill out the Running Start enrollment and advising forms. Your high school counselor will help you select the appropriate courses to enroll at Bates.
   
• Contact an advisor
  Call 253.680.7000 or 253.680.7004 to set up an advising appointment at Bates Technical College. Bring your completed Running Start forms and COMPASS results with you to enroll.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition for all college-level course work is paid for by the school district in which a student resides. Students are responsible for program and student fees as well as books, tools and supplies.

Advantages of the Running Start Program

• The Running Start program provides an opportunity to begin your college education while still in high school, tuition free, for up to two years.
• Bates offers career education programs and technical certifications not available at many high schools.
• We provide an opportunity for both advanced course-work and to learn in an adult environment.
• Students earn high school credit and college credit at the same time.
• Student can enroll in daytime, evening and online courses offered through Bates Technical College or Washington Online (WAOL). (Online fees apply.)

Eligibility

Students must be at least 16 years of age and considered a high school junior or senior (as determined by home high school). Students must have approval from their district to participate in the Running Start program.

Running Start students must take a college placement test (COMPASS) in reading, writing and mathematics prior to enrolling at Bates. Students who want to enroll in academic classes only must place into college-level academics on the COMPASS.

Most students are eligible for up to two years of Running Start. Extensions are granted to IEP students upon district request.

Career Education Programs

Bates offers Associate of Technology degrees, Certificates of Competency and Certificates of Training in hundreds of career areas. Additionally, students can prepare for industry certifications and state licensure. For more information about our career education programs visit www.bates.ctc.edu/careereducation/.