Westminster’s Early College Launched for High School Students

Academically-prepared high school students will be able to earn college credits through Westminster’s Early College (EC) starting in the summer of 2018. The launch of the program will allow EC Scholars to earn up to a year of college credits before finishing high school.

High school students can apply for the program beginning in their sophomore year. If accepted into the program, EC Scholars will come to Westminster to complete courses  during the school year and/or special two-course sequences over the summers leading into their junior and senior years. 

“We know from educational research that students do better in college after they have had preparatory experiences on a college campus,” Dean of the college and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Jeffrey Coker said. “They make better grades and graduate at higher rates.”

EC Scholars may complete up to 32 college credits by the time they graduate from high school, which saves thousands of dollars in college tuition. EC Scholars who enroll at Westminster College are eligible for a refund for up to 32 credits. 

“The Westminster Early College is a tremendous opportunity for high school students in the region to experience real college courses, get ahead and save money,” Coker said.

Regardless of the classes EC Scholars take, credits from courses such as communications, business, biology, art, computer science and more can transfer to other colleges and universities to fulfill requirements for a variety of majors. 

“There are a range of ways that high school students can earn credits for college, but the Early College is a higher quality option for students who want a more authentic taste of the college experience,” said Coker.

For more information on fees and specific classes offered, visit westminster.edu/earlycollege or contact the Admissions Office at 724-946-7100 or admis@westminster.edu.

Written by Megan Simpson

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