Start your path to success while you’re still in high school.
Students who finish an early/middle college program have the opportunity to earn both a high school diploma and an associate degree or a similar amount of college credit.
This three-year path begins in 11th grade and progresses through an extra high school year known as “fifth year.” You’ll get focused on your desired profession and gain valuable knowledge and skills that prepare you well for life after graduation.
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Quick Links
Early/Middle College Resources
RunningStart Program Contacts
High School Students & Parents
Betsy Benson
(231) 876-3148
School Administrators & Staff
Kelly Smith
(231) 876-3107
How to sign up for early/middle college:
By the beginning of your junior year, make sure you speak to your school counselor. You’ll also need to apply to Baker College. Choose “RunningStart” on the first screen and choose “Early/Middle College” when given the opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll graduate high school with either:
- An associate degree,
- A technical certificate,
- The Michigan Early/Middle College Association (MEMCA) Technical Certification, or
- Up to 60 transferable college credits.
Tuition is free, as long as you pass the course. If you’re required to retake a course, it may or may not be covered.
Currently, the following schools participate in this particular RunningStart program. If you don’t see your school, speak with your counselor, who can contact Kelly Smith at (231) 876-3107 or [email protected] to learn about establishing an early/middle college program at your school.
2019-2020 Participants:
- Benzie Central High School
- Carman-Ainsworth Baker Career Academy
- Highpoint Virtual Academy
- JAC3 (Jackson Area College and Career Connection)
- JPEC (Jackson Preparatory and Early College)
- Lapeer Center for Innovation
- Lapeer STEMM (Lapeer County Education and Technology Center)
- Melvindale High School
- SMTEC (Southwest Macomb Technical Educational Consortium)
- SRESD (Shiawassee Regional Education Service District)
- Wexford-Missaukee ISD
- Wilson Talent Center
- WMCTC (Wexford-Missaukee Career Technical Center)
Check out your other college credit options.
Baker College’s RunningStart program has three other ways you can earn college credit while you’re still in high school. Learn more about:
