Start Your Path to Success While 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, a technical certificate, 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 focus on your area of interest and gain valuable knowledge and skills that will set you up for success after graduation.
Quick Links
Early/Middle College Resources
How To Sign Up
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
- Up to 60 transferable college credits
Tuition information can be found on the Running Start page.
Currently, the following schools participate in this particular RunningStart program. If you don’t see your school, speak with your counselor, who can contact Randy Hill, Ed.D. at (231) 876-3153 or runningstart@baker.edu 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)
Contact Us
Our dedicated staff is available to provide guidance and help answer questions at each step along the way.
General Questions
High School Students & Parents
Betsy Benson
(231) 876-3148
School Administrators & Staff
Randy Hill, Ed.D.
(231) 876-3153
More College Credit Options
Baker College’s RunningStart program has three other ways you can earn college credit while you’re still in high school.
