Early College
Ottawa Area ISD Early College, in collaboration with Muskegon Community College (MCC), offers high school students the opportunity to earn both their high school diploma and an associate degree by extending their high school experience for an additional year. Students apply in 10th grade, with the program beginning in 11th grade.
Earn your high school diploma and FREE college credits!
Students receive support from a Student Advisor to help improve academic performance and develop the skills necessary for success in future academic and career endeavors. College costs including required textbooks are covered. Students are responsible for transportation to MCC campuses if it is not provided by the school district.
Participation in Early College comes with many benefits:
- Substantial credits earned 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
- Tutoring services and libraries available at both the high school and college
- Complete your High School diploma and FREE college credits
*Eligibility Requirements:
- 2.5 high school GPA or higher
- On track for high school graduation
- Attend a participating member school district
Member School Districts: Allendale, Coopersville, Grand Haven, Hamilton, Saugatuck, Spring Lake, West Ottawa
Many careers now require more than just a high school diploma. Whether you're aiming to start working right after graduation, pursue a college degree, or explore your options, Michigan’s free and affordable College in High School programs are here to help you get ready for the next step.
FIRST: Review all of the statements that are important to you in the boxes on the left.
THEN: Discover which College in High School opportunities can help you achieve each goal.
| Early Middle College | Career Technical Education | Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate | Dual Enrollment | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transforms the typical high school experience into a five-year program of study culminating with a recognized credential. | Provides real world experience, relevant academics and credentials in careers you’re interested in. | Provides the opportunity to take college-level courses from your high school classroom, culminating in a final exam to potentially earn college credits. | Allows high school students to take college courses and earn high school and college credits at the same time. | |
| I want to be prepared for college | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| I want to be prepared for my career | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| I want to reduce the future cost of college | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| I want to earn college credits that could transfer to a 2- or 4-year college | Yes 0-60 Credits |
Yes Options to apply for college credit |
Yes Requires high scores on AP/IB exams and college recognition of AP/IB scores as credit |
Yes Take up to 10 college courses |
| I want to experience college-level coursework | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| I want to experience a more engaging learning program even if it requires more time and complexity | Yes 5 years total, new learning environment |
Yes 1-2 years total, new learning environment |
Yes | Yes Courses can be online or in person |
| I want to earn a full credential before I graduate (like an Associate’s degree) | Yes | No | No | No |
| I want to work with my hands on real-world projects | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| I want structured, holistic supports to help me feel ready for my next step | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Have questions or wondering if Early College is the right fit for you?
We would love to connect!