If you are a former student of Cumberland County College, you may have noticed that the institution has undergone significant changes in recent years. In 2019, Cumberland County College merged with Rowan College at Gloucester County to form a new, unified institution: Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ). While the name on the sign has changed, the records, transcripts, and alumni services you need are still fully accessible.
Navigating a college merger can feel confusing when you need to provide proof of your education to an employer or another university. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to access your academic records, request official transcripts, and utilize the alumni benefits available to you through the Cumberland campus.
How to Request Your Official Transcripts
The most common reason former students look for information regarding their previous college is to obtain an official transcript. Whether you are applying for a new job or transferring to a four-year university, your academic history remains preserved under the new institutional structure.
Transcripts for the former Cumberland County College are now managed through the Rowan College of South Jersey Registrar’s Office. To ensure a secure and efficient process, the college utilizes a digital delivery service. Follow these steps to get your documents:
- Visit the National Student Clearinghouse: Most New Jersey community colleges use this platform for secure transcript delivery. You will need to search for “Rowan College of South Jersey” and specify the Cumberland campus if prompted.
- Provide Personal Identification: You will need your social security number or your former student ID number to locate your files.
- Select Your Delivery Method: You can choose between a secure electronic PDF, which is the fastest method, or a traditional paper copy sent via mail.
- Pay the Processing Fee: There is typically a small fee for each transcript copy. Have a credit or debit card ready to complete the transaction.
Processing Times and Delivery
Electronic transcripts are often processed within 24 to 48 hours. However, if your records date back several decades, they may require a manual search from the archives, which can take up to 5-7 business days. It is always best to request your records at least two weeks before any hard deadlines.
Obtaining a Replacement Diploma
If your original diploma was lost, damaged, or you simply want a copy that reflects the current institutional branding, you can request a replacement. It is important to note that replacement diplomas often carry the name of the current institution (Rowan College of South Jersey) but will still accurately reflect your original graduation date and the degree earned.
To request a replacement diploma, you must contact the Cumberland Campus Office of Admissions and Enrollment Services. You will likely be required to submit a written request form along with a fee. This process ensures that your credentials remain official and recognized by professional licensing boards.
Alumni Services and Career Support
Former students of Cumberland County College are automatically considered alumni of Rowan College of South Jersey. This transition grants you access to a wider range of resources than were previously available. Maintaining a connection with the college can provide significant professional advantages.
Career and Technical Assistance
The Career Services department offers lifelong support to alumni. If you are looking to change careers or update your resume, you can schedule an appointment with a career counselor. They provide assistance with:
- Resume and cover letter reviews.
- Mock interviews to prepare for job openings.
- Access to exclusive job boards and networking events.
- Career assessment tools to help you identify new professional paths.
Library and Campus Access
As an alum, you typically retain certain privileges at the Frank Guaracini Jr. Fine and Performing Arts Center and the campus library. While digital database access may be limited to current students due to licensing agreements, physical access to the library collections and community events remains a valuable perk of being a former student.
Financial Records and Tax Information
If you recently attended classes and need to access your 1098-T tax forms or other financial records, these are managed through the college’s business office. For students who attended prior to the 2019 merger, these records are archived but remain accessible upon request.
If you have outstanding balances or questions regarding past tuition payments, you should contact the Bursar’s Office at the Vineland campus. They can provide itemized statements that may be required for employer tuition reimbursement programs or personal financial planning.
Understanding the Rowan University Partnership
One of the primary benefits of the merger that created RCSJ is the “premier partnership” with Rowan University. This partnership has streamlined the process for former community college students to pursue a bachelor’s degree. If you have an associate degree from the former Cumberland County College, you may be eligible for guaranteed transfer programs or discounted tuition rates at Rowan University.
This is particularly helpful for alumni who took a break from their education and are now looking to return to school. Your previous credits are still valid and can serve as the foundation for a higher degree under this expanded educational network.
Verifying Enrollment for Employers
Employers often require third-party verification of your degree or enrollment history. Instead of handling these requests yourself, you can direct your employer to the National Student Clearinghouse. This organization acts as the official agent for the college to provide immediate verification of degrees and attendance dates.
Using this service prevents delays in the hiring process and ensures that the information provided to your employer is verified and accurate. It is the most professional way to handle background checks and credentialing requirements.
Conclusion
While the transition from Cumberland County College to Rowan College of South Jersey represents a major change in the local educational landscape, your history with the school remains secure. Whether you need a transcript for a new job, a replacement diploma, or career advice, the resources you need are readily available through the Vineland campus offices. By taking advantage of the updated alumni services and the expanded partnership with Rowan University, you can continue to build on the educational foundation you started years ago. If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on navigating educational transitions and managing professional records.