Academics
Early Middle College
Jump-Start Your Future
Highpoint Virtual Academy (HVAM) offers the first fully virtual Early Middle College (EMC) education option for Michigan high school students. This tuition-free, three-year public school program lets students participate in an integrated sequence of high school and college courses.
Beginning in 11th grade and continuing through an extra 13th year of study, students; in the program focus on college-level courses. They can earn one of the following while working toward their high school diploma:
- An associate’s degree
- The Michigan Early Middle College Association (MEMCA) technical certification
- Up to 60 transferable college credits
How does it work?
Get the details from Head of School Mary Moorman.
What are the benefits?
No out of pocket costs. You don’t pay tuition, fees, or book costs during the three-year program. This can significantly reduce education loan debt.
Industry-specific credentials. You can choose to earn an industry-specific credential, which may open a broader range of employment opportunities upon graduation.
Better prepared for college. Participating in the EMC program also prepares you for the more challenging coursework required of higher education.
Early Middle College Partners
Students can study with HVAM’s postsecondary partners offering the following programs:
- Baker College: Associate of Business Management Administration
- Davenport University: Associate of Applied Science—Computer Information Systems
Who is eligible?
In order to apply for the EMC program, high school students must meet all the following criteria:
- Be an HVAM student in good standing entering 11th grade
- Have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5
- Have a minimum PSAT score of 400 in Reading/Writing and Math
- Have less than 10 absences per academic year
- Be on track for graduation, including completion of state testing requirements
- Have approval of the HVAM counselor or Head of School
How do I apply?
Complete all application materials and an essay, which you’ll submit to the HVAM counselor or Head of School at least one week in advance of the mandatory new student orientation session. Once accepted into the program, you must then apply to the appropriate college.
Additional information and application materials can be found in the links below.