Earn College Credit While in High School
Our RunningStart program is tailored for students like you who are eager to get a “running start” on your college and career goals. There are multiple ways to earn college credit while you’re still in high school—and we have a dedicated team of people at Baker College to support you along the way.
You can earn college credits right now at little to no cost. That means saving money and getting a leg up for college, all while standing out on your applications. By the time you toss your cap at graduation, you’ll already have college-level experience, giving you a serious advantage.
We offer a number of scholarships for RunningStart students to make it easy to continue at Baker College after you graduate high school. If you end up going elsewhere for college, our credits are widely transferrable. You can fast-track your degree, no matter where you go next.
Don’t wait—apply to the RunningStart program today and take the first step in your college success story!
Choose Your Path
RunningStart includes four pathways, each one designed to help prepare you for college and beyond. Don’t feel limited to one option, many of our students mix and match!
How to Enroll
Here’s what you need to do to become a RunningStart student:
- Have a 2.5 high school GPA or a 2.0 – 2.4 with a counselor’s recommendation
- Complete a RunningStart application
- Send a copy of your high school transcript to [email protected]
- Complete your RunningStart Student Orientation
Once you’ve completed this list, one of our Student Success Coaches will reach out to get you registered for your first college class.
Tuition Rates
Fall 2024-Summer 2025
| Pathway | Cost |
|---|---|
| Concurrent Enrollment | $100 per credit |
| Dual Enrollment/Direct Credit | $150 per credit |
| Early/Middle College (13th Year) | $272 per credit |
| Non-Public Students | Based on State foundation allowance |
Full/Partial Tuition Costs May Be Covered
Did you know that according to Michigan State law, if you’re eligible, your school district might cover some or all of the costs for dual enrollment courses? Before you register, make sure to chat with your high school counselor. They’re the ones with information about how much your school will pitch in. Any costs not covered by the school will be your responsibility.
Rates are updated annually. For questions regarding cost, please contact [email protected].
Scholarships for
RunningStart Alumni
You won’t just earn credits as a RunningStart student, you’ll also gain a good sense of what Baker College is like. We offer a number of scholarships for former RunningStart students to make it easy to continue at Baker College after high school.
Meet the Team
Kate DeKam (She/Her/Hers)
Director of RunningStart
231-876-3018
Email
Contact me if you’re a high school administrator or counselor interested in providing RunningStart opportunities to your students.
Betsy Benson (She/Her/Hers)
Scheduling and Enrollment Coordinator / Success Coach
231-876-3148
Email
Contact me if you are a:
- Student, parent, or counselor with questions about the RunningStart program
- Current RunningStart student in an Early Middle College (EMC) program
- Student at Highpoint Virtual Academy
Kelly Rhodes (She/Her/Hers)
Success Coach
231-876-3136
Email
Contact me if you are a current RunningStart student who is not a part of an Early Middle College and looking to speak to an advisor.