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Early College Program
   
The Early College Program is a unique approach, based on the principle that academic rigor, combined with the opportunity to save time and money, is a powerful motivator for certain students to work hard and meet serious intellectual challenges. The Early College Program blends high school and college in a rigorous yet supportive program, compressing the time it takes to complete the first two years of college. Students receive both high school and college credit for the early college courses completed in grades 11 and 12. Courses can be taught by the high school faculty, college faculty, via face to face, ITV/IVN, or online. Students who participate in the Early College Program will get a “jump start” on their college education.
High schools partnering with the North Dakota State College of Science in the Early College Program can simultaneously offer their students the opportunity to earn both a high school diploma and one year of college credits toward an Associate’s degree. Early College Program high schools have the potential to improve high school graduation rates and better prepare students for high-skilled careers by engaging all students in a rigorous, college preparatory curriculum and reducing the number of years to complete a college degree. Early High School program data indicates that students enrolled in an early college option score higher on state-mandated math and English Language Arts exams.
Credits earned through the early college program will provide students the opportunity to accelerate their college career. Reducing the time-to-degree can result in substantial savings to the student and their families. Students completing one year of college courses in the Early College Program can potentially save between $8,000 to $25,000 depending upon whether they attend a public or private institution. Credits earned under the Early College Program will apply toward a degree at the North Dakota State College of Science and are transferable to other college and universities. A college degree is the goal for all participants.

Students in the Early College Program will:

  • have completed their sophomore year of high school.
  • have a minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or high school administration approval.
  • be recommended for admission by the high school administration.
  • meet the NDSCS admission requirements.
  • submit completed application for admission with $35 non-refundable application fee in the spring prior to fall enrollment.
  • submit Credit Registration Form and Dual Credit Application Form(s) prior to the start of the semester that the student wishes to enroll in classes.
  • complete the necessary testing requirements (completed COMPASS scores or ACT scores for college placement of at least 18 in Reading and English and 20 in Math).
    • COMPASS testing is available at the North Dakota State College of Science campus in Wahpeton or at the Skills & Technology Training Center in Fargo.

Costs

Tuition will vary depending upon the method of instruction. The high school covers the cost of textbooks for classes taught by a high school faculty member. When the class is taught on the NDSCS campus, via IVN/ITV, or online, the student will be responsible for the purchase of the textbook.

Programs of Study

NDSCS will develop a program of study for students enrolled in the Early College Program. The high school will provide a counselor or advisor to work with the Early College Program students and the NDSCS academic advisor. The counselor or advisor will meet individually with students in planning their program of study and in registering students for classes in the appropriate semester. Students will work with the Early College Program contact person at the high school to ensure they are following the curriculum as outlined in the program of study.

Below are possible program options:

Liberal Arts or General Studies

Computer Information Systems

For more information contact NDSCS Distance Education Office.

Toll free 1-800-342-4325, ext. 3-2430
E-mail Margaret Wall

   
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