In today’s competitive workforce, education is more important than ever before. Gone are the days of great careers for those who only obtain a high school diploma. Nowadays, employers of nearly all industries look for candidates with some postsecondary education. As a result, ambitious high schoolers – who are looking ahead to their success – may wish to get a jumpstart on their college degree.

Early college programs (ECP), also known as high school college programs, are a great option for those looking to get ahead on their college courses before graduation day.

Each early college high school offers students the unique opportunity to experience college – on a real college campus – before they finish high school. There are many advantages to a program like this, including a head start on college credits. Curious to learn more? Read on as we answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding high school college programs.

How do high school college programs work?

Students who attend an early college high school, such as Connecticut River Academy (CTRA) at Goodwin College, can take college courses while still attending high school. Starting in grade 11, students may take credit-bearing courses at Goodwin College. Students who maintain a high level of academic excellence can earn up to 35 credits – a year of college credit! This allows them to get ahead on college courses, stand out amongst other students, and save on college costs when the time comes.

How can I enroll?

Every high school college program has a different admissions process. Students interested in Connecticut River Academy, an early college magnet high school, must apply by entering a lottery process, which is conducted by the State Department of Education’s Regional School Choice Office.

What types of high school college programs are available?

Typically, there is a wide range of studies available to high school students in an early college program. Connecticut River Academy, for example, offers a great selection of college courses including advanced manufacturing, environmental science, humanities, and more.

What do high school college programs offer?

Starting in grade 9, students at CTRA are immersed in a world of learning, focused on environmental science and technology. Some of the course offerings include advanced manufacturing, biology, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, geography, physics, sociology, and other advanced science courses, at both the high school and college levels.

How can early college programs benefit teens?

There are many benefits for enrolling in a high school college program. Some of the perks include:

• Academic Success. Teens will be set up for a lifetime of academic achievement.
• Diverse student body. Teens will be emerged in a culture that promotes collaboration, empathy, and respect.
• Family & Community Involvement. This type of program encourages that passion for education and growth.
• Flexible & Innovative Curriculum. Each program is centered around a unifying theme that will inspire and feed your teen’s appetite for education.

What are high school hours like?

Since high school college programs are made for high school students, the hours are very similar to that of a standard high school. The school day at CTRA, for example, runs 7:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Many Fridays are half days – meaning school lets out at 11:15 a.m. Afterschool programs are also available, for those looking for advanced enrichment opportunities.

Can college credits transfer to any college?

Some colleges accept and transfer credits that are earned at a regionally-accredited college high school. Of course, the student must have received a passing grade, earned the credit through traditional coursework, and the class must be collegiate in nature. It’s important to remember that each college has its own set of transfer policies, so it is important to contact the admissions office of the institution you are thinking of applying to in order to find out what their policies are regarding the credit transfer. Students of Connecticut River Academy, or Goodwin’s other high school college programs, can apply their early-earned credits to their degree at Goodwin College.

If you are interested in learning more about high school college programs, such as Connecticut River Academy, contact Goodwin College today. You can call 860.913.2200 or visit us online at https://www.ctriveracademy.org