High School Programs

Why Earn College Credit in High School?

Are you a high school student looking to get a head start on your college education? Iowa Valley Community College District, through Marshalltown Community College (MCC) and Ellsworth Community College (ECC), partners with local school districts to offer college-level courses that count towards both your high school diploma AND your future college degree – all at NO COST to you or your family!

Getting a jump start on college while in high school offers significant benefits:

Real-world Experience & Career Exploration

Our Career Academy programs, primarily designed for high school juniors and seniors, focus on career exploration and align with industry workforce needs. You can even earn industry-recognized certificates for immediate employment opportunities!

Big Cost Savings

Dual-enrolled students earn both high school and college credit without any tuition cost. Last year alone, families saved over $2 million by earning college credit in high school!

Proven Academic Advantages

Research shows that students entering college with prior college credit tend to have:

  • Higher grade point averages in their first semester and year
  • Higher graduation rates
  • Shorter time to graduation
  • Less frequent major changes
  • More minors and second majors

It's common to have questions about earning college credit in high school. Your high school counselor is your best resource, along with the contacts at your nearest Iowa Valley location.

How to Take College Classes in High School

Most classes can be taken at one of our campus locations, at a partnering high school, or online. There are many flexible options for you to begin your college journey with us!

Talk to Your High School Counselor

Your high school counselor is your go-to person! They will provide essential information, ensure you meet all necessary requirements (like age or entrance test prerequisites), and guide you through the process.

Enroll in College Classes at Your High School (Concurrent Enrollment Program - CEP)

Many local high schools participate in our Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP), offering college courses directly on site. These courses are taught by CEP adjunct instructors – your high school teachers who meet our college qualifications and are approved to teach college curriculum. Our CEP program is nationally accredited by the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP), ensuring quality and transferability.

Your high school must approve your enrollment in dual credit classes. If you wish to self-pay for courses during interims or for other reasons, you can submit the High School Student Registration/Application Form, indicating “self-pay” as the class type.

Participating high schools include:

  • AGWSR
  • BGM
  • East Marshall
  • GMG (for MCC)
  • Grinnell
  • Iowa Falls-Alden
  • Marshalltown
  • Montezuma
  • South Hardin
  • South Tama
  • West Marshall

Your Four-Year Enrollment Plan

Planning early in high school opens more doors down the road. Begin the conversation with your high school counselor now to set yourself up for success. If you have questions that can’t be answered, our team is here to support you.