Early College
Early college
Early college is a bold approach, based on the principle that academic rigor, combined with the opportunity to save time and money, is a powerful motivator for students to work hard and meet serious intellectual challenges. Early college high schools blend high school and college in a rigorous yet supportive program, compressing the time it takes to complete a high school diploma and the first two years of college.
Since 2002, the partner organizations of the Early College High School Initiative have started or redesigned 240+ schools serving more than 75,000 students in 35 states. The schools are designed to assist low-income youth, first-generation college students, English language learners, students of color, and other young people underrepresented in higher education simultaneously earn a high school diploma and up to an associate degree or two years of credit toward a bachelor’s degree—tuition free.
Early College of Muskegon County
Early College Muskegon County (ECMC) is a program that allows selected students to extend high school by one year in order to earn both their diploma and up to 62 college credits from Muskegon Community College (MCC) at no cost to the student.
Students receive special support to help improve their academic performance as they complete both high school and college coursework and secure their future education and career related goals. While students must provide their own transportation to the MCC campus, all other college costs including registration and technology fees, textbooks, and materials needed to complete the courses of study are covered.
Students can apply for Early College during their 10th grade year. Applications are available in the high school counselor’s office or by clicking on the link below. Students must have at least a 2.5 GPA, and be on track to graduate high school. Students should see their high school guidance counselor for additional requirements set by their home-based district.
Benefits
- Earn substantial credits up to an associate degree by extending high school graduation by one year
- Students receive support services throughout their Early College experience
- Enjoy high school activities as well as high school extracurricular activities
- Enjoy college intramural teams and club sports as well as other college educational activities
- Eligible to play college sports during the 13th year
- Tutoring services and libraries available at both the high school and college
- Complete your diploma and up to 62 credits
Contact:
Selection Process
Phase I: Applications
- MCC Application
- ECMC Application
Phase II: Interviews
- Interview with the Student’s Family
- Interview with the Student
For more information, interested high school students should contact their high school counselors.
