Many Wisconsin high school students and their families are getting a head start on a college degree while completing high school requirements through the University of Wisconsin-Superior. With its small campus and personalized approach to education, UW-Superior is well positioned to meet the needs of high school students who choose this path. Interest continues to grow, reflected in a 41 percent increase in high school college credit enrollment for the spring semester.

Students can explore the options available a their high school by visiting uwsuper.edu/HSCC.

Benefits of Starting College in High School

Beginning the college journey while still in high school offers many advantages. Students can challenge themselves academically through a wide selection of college-level courses taught experienced faculty. By earning college credits early, they can get a head start on completing a degree and the workforce sooner – often saving both time and money.

Participating in college coursework also strengthens future college applications by providing firsthand experience with the expectations and rigor of higher education. In addition, students may reduce the overall cost of a bachelor’s degree. Depending on the program, courses may be free or offered at a discounted rate.

UW-Superior also offers direct admission to students who participate in any of its high school college credit programs – allowing them to bypass the standard undergraduate admissions process. After graduating from high school, students can continue at UW-Superior without reapplying.

Three Program Options

Early College Credit Program (ECCP)

Through the Early College Credit Program at UW-Superior, qualified students attending public or private Wisconsin high schools may enroll in one or more university course while still in high school. Students can earn both high school and college credit and may complete up to 18 credits total.

In most cases, costs are shared by UW-Superior, the school district and state. However, in some instances, families may be responsible for a portion of the tuition.

Concurrent and Dual Enrollment

UW-Superior partners with several Wisconsin high schools to offer concurrent and dual enrollment courses. In these programs, UW-Superior instructors teach courses at participating high schools either in person or online. Students earn high school credit and college credit simultaneously.

In most cases, participating high schools cover the cost of these courses resulting in little or no cost to families. Students should confirm details with their high school.

High School Special Student Option

Through the High School Special Option, students may enroll in any UW-Superior course if they meet the prerequisites and space is available. Under this option, the student or family is responsible for tuition and fees. Total cost varies based on selected courses.

How to Apply

Students can begin the application process at apply.wisconsin.edu by creating an account and selecting UW-Superior.

After applying, students must complete the course request form available at uwsuper.edu/HSCC and submit it to their high school counselor for approval. Students are encouraged to speak with their high school about appropriate course options and obtain the correct class number.

The final step is for the high school counselor to submit an official high school transcript.

Deadlines and Eligibility

For the ECCP and High School Special options, paperwork is due to the student’s high school by:

• February 1 (for summer term)
• March 1 (for fall term)
• October 1 (for spring term)

This paperwork must be completed every semester a student plans to participate in the program.

Students must have a 2.75 GPA to qualify. Those who do not meet this requirement but wish to discuss eligibility may contact the Center for Continuing Education which oversees these programs at [email protected] or 715-394-8469.