What is Early College Academy – Degree Track?
Mount Wachusett Community College is pleased to offer an Early College opportunity for motivated high school students who would like to complete an associate degree and the majority of pre-requisite courses required for degree programs at Massachusetts public institutions. Students must be rising juniors to apply. The goal of the Early College Academy – Degree Track (formerly Pathways Early College Experience) is to provide high school students with the opportunity to earn their high school diploma and an associate degree while completing their junior and senior. The primary goals of this initiative are:
- To address the needs of motivated students who would like to enroll in college courses prior to high school graduation.
- To boost enrollment and retention of diverse student populations.
- To graduate students with a high school diploma and an associate degree.
- To allow students the opportunity to fulfill their educational dreams.
Why should you choose Early College Academy – Degree Track?
- You’re ready for the academic challenge and rigor of college courses.
- You want to earn an associate degree while completing high school.
- You’re prepared to integrate into the intellectual, social and academic environment of a college campus.
What does Early College Academy – Degree Track Cost?
- Nothing! It’s free!
Eligibility Requirements for Early College Academy – Degree Track?
- Reside in Massachusetts
- Will be entering grade 11 by the start of the fall semester
- Strongly encouraged to have an unweighted, cumulative GPA of a 3.0 based on a 4.0 scale (will be reviewed on an individual basis)
- Have a B or better average in high school math and English
- Will have completed Algebra II by fall 2026 or have placed into MAT 162 College Algebra through Accuplacer
- Are recommended by your current high school or homeschool
Program Commitments
- Must enroll in classes during all available MWCC semesters (fall, spring, summer)
- Be aware that you may be scheduled for classes anytime during the following: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.– 4 p.m
- Must have reliable transportation to campus
Program Logistics
- Accepted ECA – Degree Track students who are not currently enrolled at an early college designated high school will be required to school choice into Gardner Public Schools.
- Students who are enrolled at designated early college high schools should connect with their high school’s Early College Coordinator to discuss this program and enrollment options.
- Students will have support from their respective high schools for items such as MCAS testing, PSAT and SAT testing, as well as the opportunity to participate in sports (schedule pending), prom, and other school events.
- All students are considered Mount Wachusett Community College students and have access to MWCC services including counseling, advising, career services, fitness center, and leadership activities offered by Student Life.
- Students will have two options for a major only for the associate degree: Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Interdisciplinary Studies. The major will be determined with their Academic Counselor.
Early College Academy – Degree Track Application Process
STEP 1: Information Sessions
Students interested in the Early College Academy – Degree Track program will need to attend an information session, either in person or virtual, with a parent/guardian.
The deadline to apply is June 3, 2026
If you have a disability and require accommodations to participate in the information session, please contact the office of Access & Transition at 978-630-9248.
STEP 2: Completion of the Online Application Process
Components of the online application include: the application itself, a letter of recommendation from a high school guidance counselor or teacher, completion of an application essay (prompts provided).
Apply to the Early College Academy Degree Track
STEP 3: Submission of high school documentation as requested directly from the high school guidance counselor.
Information will be provided on this after the application is submitted.
STEP 4: Completion of a campus visit.
Chosen candidates will be invited for a campus visit to see the campus and have a discussion with a program representative.