Earn College Credits in High School

Michigan students can earn college credits while enrolled in high school through a variety of programs as described below. These opportunities allow students to make progress toward their post-graduation goals by earning early college credits, exploring potential careers, and more.

Data from the Center for Educational Performance and Information (CEPI) shows that Michigan high school students who pursue early credit options are more likely to: graduate from high school on-time, enroll in college within one year of graduating, and graduate with a bachelor’s degree within four years after high school compared with students who do not earn college credits in high school.

Dual Enrollment

In Michigan, students can enroll in up to ten individual college classes while also enrolled in high school through dual enrollment. Taking early college classes can save students time and money. The Michigan Transfer Network (MTN) statewide course equivalency database is a great guide for dual enrolled students to explore transferability of their courses.

Early Middle College (EMC)

An early middle college (EMC) allows students to stay enrolled in high school for an additional fifth year in order to take college classes. Students can complete up to 60 college credits, an associate degree or other approved credentials while also earning credits that may transfer to bachelor’s granting institutions.

Career Technical Education (CTE)

Michigan high school students can pursue a career technical education (CTE) program and potentially earn college credit for their high school CTE classes, especially when the programs include postsecondary credit agreements. CTE students can also check the Earn Credits for Industry Credentials page on this website to see how industry-recognized credentials earned through CTE programs can be applied for college credit at Michigan colleges and universities.

Advanced Placement (AP)

Students can take Advanced Placement (AP) courses while in high school and earn college credit with qualifying scores on their AP exams. Several different classes and exams are offered through this program. Students can check here to see what credits their AP scores can earn across Michigan’s colleges and universities.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Some Michigan high schools offer advanced level International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. Like Advanced Placement (AP), high school students who take IB courses can earn college credits with qualifying IB examination scores at many Michigan colleges and universities.