Early Middle College

We partner with Wayne County Community College District, Washtenaw Community College, and Davenport University for our Early Middle College Program. 

If you have questions, please contact our Early Middle College Coordinator, Dawnique Steel.

Early Middle College gives students a head start on college and career goals. Through the program, students can:

• Earn up to 60 college credits and an associate degree or certificate at no cost
• Save tens of thousands of dollars on tuition, books, and required fees
• Start college coursework in 10th grade with high school support in place
• Build the skills and confidence that college-level work requires
• Enter the workforce or a four-year program sooner

Early Middle College works best for students who are ready for more responsibility. Successful students typically have strong attendance, maintain a 2.5 GPA or higher, and are motivated to take on a challenge. Attendance matters most. College classes often meet in the morning, and professors expect students to show up prepared and follow up on their own if they miss a class.

Students start in 10th grade with an introductory college course focused on career exploration. As they move through the program, college courses begin to replace certain high school classes, and some count for both high school and college credit. Courses are scheduled to line up with graduation requirements, so your teen's school day doesn't get longer.

Your teen works with a team that includes school counselors, advisors, an academic coach, and other faculty members. That support continues through the fifth year. Staff monitor academic progress along the way and send families regular updates.

Your teen builds a personalized pathway with school staff, mapping out which college courses to take and when. The plan is built around high school graduation requirements, so your teen stays on track for a diploma while earning college credit.

College instructors cannot share grades with parents the way high school teachers do, so you may not know your teen is struggling unless you ask. Have your teen log into the college portal and review grades with you regularly, and reach out to school staff early if something concerns you.

Not every student stays in the program, and that's okay. School staff will help your teen move to a path where they can succeed.

Transfer rules vary by college, so it depends on where your teen plans to go. Early Middle College is a strong fit for students who plan to earn an associate degree and enter the workforce, or who plan to continue at the partner college where they earned the credits. School counselors can walk your family through the options.

Most early college programs limit students to one track or certification. Ours offers multiple pathways, so your teen isn't locked into a career decision at 15. Students can earn up to 60 college credits, and NHA covers tuition, books, and required fees.