Early Middle College Program
Earn college credits—at no cost—while you finish high school
The St. Joseph County Early Middle College (SJC-EMC) program empowers motivated high school students to earn a diploma and significant college credit—up to an associate degree or 60 transferable credits—for free. By adding a 13th year, you can complete a high school diploma and college credential at the same time, setting you up for career success or a smooth transfer to a four-year university.
Students attend their 13th year full-time on the Glen Oaks campus, gaining independence, college readiness, and a powerful head start.
What You Can Earn through EMC
- An Associate Degree
- An Occupational Certificate
- The Michigan Early Middle College Association (MEMCA) Technical Certification
- Up to 60 college credits transferable toward a bachelor’s degree
All with zero cost to your family—paid by your school district.
EMC vs. Traditional Dual Enrollment
Traditional dual enrollment lets high school students take up to 10 college courses. EMC goes further:
- Students begin a five-year plan starting as early as 9th grade.
- They complete both high school and college coursework by the end of 13th grade.
- Courses may be taken online, in person, or in blended formats.
- All EMC students follow a customized Educational Development Plan (EDP) approved by the student, parent, and school official.
Students may participate in graduation with their class, but their diploma is awarded after the 13th year is completed.
Who Should Apply?
EMC is for high school students who are:
- Motivated to get a head start on college or career
- Interested in saving thousands in tuition
- Ready to commit to an extended high school experience
- Exploring transfer, trades, healthcare, or other career pathways
- Preferably in 9th grade but no later than before the start of 11th grade.
Program Highlights
- College Courses: Earn real college credit while still in high school.
- Wraparound Support: EMC students receive academic advising, tutoring, testing support, and career counseling through Glen Oaks and their high school.
- EMC Bootcamp: All new EMC students participate in a transition bootcamp.
- EMC Student Success Course: Required online course in the first semester to support success.
- Monthly Check-ins: Ongoing meetings with the EMC team help you stay on track.
Cost
There is no cost to families. Tuition, books, and fees are covered by your local district when you participate in SJC-EMC.
Academic & Personal Support
Glen Oaks provides a robust support network, including:
- Tutoring & Testing Center: Free peer tutoring in most subjects. Contact (269) 294-4295.
- Career Counseling: Support for identifying career interests and matching with programs.
- Disability & Support Services: Available for students with IEPs or 504 plans.
- Advising: One-on-one support for planning and adjusting your educational plan.
Students with special circumstances—such as IEPs, 504s, or Free/Reduced Lunch eligibility—are encouraged to connect with the EMC Director. All information remains confidential.
Placement Testing
Course placement is based on a combination of:
- High school performance (English grades of B or higher)
- Counselor recommendation
- ACT or SAT scores
- Passing grade in high school Algebra 1 and Algebra 2
- Accuplacer test (only if needed before EMC Bootcamp)
Schedule placement testing through the GOCC Learning Commons at (269) 294-4295 or your high school guidance office.
How do I get started with the EMC program?
Here's a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Talk to Your High School Counselor
Meet with your counselor to see if EMC is a good fit. Pick up an info packet to review with your family.
2. Complete the Online EMC Application
Early Middle College Application
3. Teacher Recommendation
The teacher you list on your application will receive a link to complete an online recommendation.
4. Counselor Approval
Your school counselor will complete their section of the application automatically—no extra step required from you.
5. Placement Testing
- Students with a B or higher in all English classes and a counselor recommendation may qualify via Multiple Measures.
- If needed, you'll take the Accuplacer test before EMC Bootcamp.
- You may also submit ACT or SAT scores.
Testing is available through the GOCC Learning Commons at (269) 294-4295 or at your high school.
6. Review and Admission
The EMC team will review your application, teacher and counselor recommendations, placement scores, and any additional info.
7. Acceptance Letter
If accepted, you'll receive an official EMC Acceptance Letter with your GOCC student ID and next steps.
8. Attend EMC Bootcamp
Bootcamp is required and includes:
- College readiness training (MEMCA-aligned)
- Student success strategies
- A chance to connect with fellow EMC students
9. Parent & Student Orientation
You and your parent/guardian will attend an orientation to review policies, procedures, and expectations.
Details on bootcamp dates and orientation will be mailed after acceptance.
Meet Your EMC Team
