Celebrating 10 Years of Enhanced Education Opportunities: North Central's Early College Program Expands to Include Local High Schools

North Central Michigan College is marking the 10-year anniversary of its Early College program. Since its start in 2014 with 25 students from Petoskey High School, the program has grown to include Boyne City High School and Gaylord High School. To date, it has graduated 413 students who earned their associate degrees for free, highlighting its goal to provide accessible and affordable higher education.

This year, the program will grow to include Cheboygan High School and Inland Lakes School District, starting in fall 2024. Students in these schools will be able to begin college courses while still in high school, and they can earn an associate degree by the end of their fifth year.

The program is a collaboration between North Central Michigan College and the high schools involved. Students start the program in their sophomore year's winter semester. They take courses at their high schools and at North Central’s campus in Petoskey, combining high school and college education.

Corey Lansing, the director of admissions at North Central, stated that the program has been successful and beneficial for the region. It has helped students start their academic careers earlier and with less financial strain.

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