Jewish Vocational Service, Inc.
- Education | Bridge Program
Bridges to College and Careers (BtC)
Program activities:
JVS Bridges to College and Careers program (Bridges) is an intensive, 23-week, 460-hour college transition program designed to equip adult learners with the English, Math, Science needed to enter college and complete a post-secondary certificate or degree. The Bridges program offers students multiple career pathways to industry-recognized certificates in high-demand and STEM occupations.
The Bridges model of intensive academic support – which includes college-level reading, writing and math, and practical study and technology skills – is designed to help adults close learning gaps much more quickly and efficiently than traditional college developmental education classes. Bridges incorporates weekly one-on-one and group coaching support for all students. JVS also provides assistance with navigating financial Aid, College Readiness as well as Career Readiness/Placement.
Program components a pre-Bridges English for Academic Success (EAS) class as well as Bridges to College pathways in General Studies ( Liberal Arts) ,Biotechnology and job availability/ placements in this industry) The Substance Addiction Assistant Pathway is used to train students to work with individuals struggling with Substance Use Disorder(SUD). Depending on their pre-Bridges academic English and math levels, students enter the program directly into a college pathway or they first complete a cycle of English for Academic Success and begin a college pathway in the next Bridges cycle. All Bridges pathways lead students to college certificate/degree programs.
Both the Biotechnology Pathway and Substance Addiction Assistant (SAA) pathways are conducted in partnership with Quincy College.
The General Studies Pathway utilizes a partnership with Bunker Hill Community College to provide adjunct faculty to teach 2 classes:
-English 095 (Reading and writing Skills-I) so that student can place directly into ENG 111 or College level English saving the students approximately $668 for having to take this course at BHC
-HUM-120- (Humanities “Self, Culture & Society”)
This course is designed to cultivate community among classmates and provide opportunities for mentorship by faculty, peers, and advisors. Students reflect on their role in creating a more just society that advances equity and values community cultural wealth. Each course section examines self, culture and society through a specific academic theme. Students choose a section based on their interests. This course meets the General Education requirement for General Education Elective.
Students earn 3 credits for this course which satisfies the pre-requisite for many degree programs at BHCC.
Program is offered in: English
Participant demographics:
High School graduates looking to enter college but lack academic preparation. Serving predominantly Immigrants and BIPOC.
Anticipated number of SNAP participants per year: 25
Total hours: 37
Program duration: 26 weeks
Rolling Admission: No
Number of cycles: 2
Program start dates: January 18, 2025 — June 12, 2025 and July 19, 2025 — December 19, 2025
Sample schedule:
| Hours | Activity Type | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:00am-12:00pm | Academic Classes | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| 12:00-2:00pm | Career Coaching | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||
| 1:00pm-3:00pm | Creative Reading and Writing | ✓ |
Is the program offered remotely? Hybrid
Is public transportation available? Yes
Location information:
| 122 Arlington St, Boston, MA 02116 | Accessible via the Green and Orange lines of the MBTA as well as the Silver Line and multiple bus routes. |
Additional information about location:
Currently using a “hybrid” model. using ZOOM for remote classes and JVS’ new, state of the art lab facility, ArLab for in-person classes and activities.
Program requirements: High school diploma/GED/HiSET
Program is CORI friendly? Yes
Anticipated outcomes: Certificate in Biotechnology or Substance Addiction Assistant (Quincy College) or any program of study at Bunker Hill Community College and Certificate from JVS/ Bridges to College upon completion | Job Search support/placement while in college with an emphasis on assisting with promotions as needed.
Other outcomes: Stackable Credential(s), Employment/Promotion, Basic skills gain, Industry skills gain
Participant Supports:
| Participant Support Category | As needed | All participants |
|---|---|---|
| DTA SNAP Child Care Referral | ✓ | |
| DTA SNAP Transportation Support | ✓ | |
| Test/License Fees | ✓ | |
| Books/Supplies | ✓ | |
| Computer and internet | ✓ |
Are there any out of pocket expenses for the participant? No
Do participants receive any pay? Not applicable
Contact Information
Program Liaison: Philip Schuchert
Telephone: 617-399-3391
Email: pschuchert@jvs-boston.org
Program code: JVS-EDUC-BC
ABAWD Qualifying? Yes