Early Middle College

PTCC’s Early Middle College program allows students in state-approved alternative learning program to earn college credit while still in high school, through enrollment in and successful completion of college courses at eligible postsecondary institutions. This program is specifically designed to allow the student to earn dual high school and college credit with a well-defined pathway to allow the student to earn a postsecondary degree or credential.

Students enrolled in the Early Middle College program will maintain their status as a member of their alternative program, while also becoming a college student and a member of the PTCC campus community. This cooperative effort on behalf of both the college and the alternative program will ensure the student receives the wrap-around supports that foster success. Students in the program will be treated like adults and are expected to meet the academic and behavior expectations of the college community. 

PTCC partners with the following Alternative Learning Programs to offer Early Middle College opportunities to high school students:

• East Central Crossroads
• Hinckley-Finlayson Empower Learning Center
• Mora Alternative Learning Center
• Pine City Alternative Learning Center

New Early Middle College Students 

1. Work with your high school counselor to determine if you meet PSEO eligibility requirements 
2. Complete the online application to PTCC. 
1. Refer to the step-by-step application guide for assistance. 
3. Schedule a mandatory PSEO New Student Orientation/Registration session with the K-12 Partnerships Coordinator
4. Submit the following documentation to the K-12 Partnerships Coordinator:

1. Signed Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) Notice of Student Registration (NOSR) form
2. ACT, MCA, or SAT scores (or schedule an Accuplacer Assessment)
3. Copy of your high school transcripts

Student Eligibility

Participation in the Early Middle College program is restricted to students enrolled in a state approved alternative learning program under the graduation incentives program as defined by the Minnesota Department of Education. Students must meet the following requirements:

1. Must be enrolled in 11^th or 12^th grade
2. Have a favorable recommendation from a designated high school official

Program of Study 

As a student, you are encouraged to select a career pathway and will take college courses that support that goal. Once you select a major, PTCC and high school staff will work collaboratively to determine which classes you will take to make progress on completing both your high school and college degree. Each semester, you will be given your schedule to ensure every class you take will lead you closer to your degrees. Explore all of the programs that PTCC has to offer!

Student Support 

PTCC and the high school staff will work together to create your support team. Both your high school counselor and the student support staff at PTCC are dedicated to helping you navigate college, succeed in your courses and fit into the college campus community. Supports for students who require physical or learning accommodations are available at PTCC.  

Resources: 

• 2021-2022 MDE Early Middle College Notice of Student Registration (NOSR) Form
• PSEO Program Overview
• PTCC Student Handbook
• Request your transcript 

To learn more about Early Middle College, contact Jodie Klinkhammer or Kierstan Peck