Early College Degree Program
Early College Degree Program
What is the Early College Degree Program?
The Early College Degree Program (ECDP), formerly Middle College, is a full-time dual enrollment opportunity designed for college-ready high school students. ECDP students spend their junior and/or senior years at Hagerstown Community College (HCC), enrolled in at least 12 college credits each semester.
Every student that wants to be enrolled at HCC full time during high school is required to complete the application steps listed below.
Participation in the Early College Degree Program replaces the students’ high school day. ECDP students report to the HCC campus each day, check-in for attendance, and complete other activities required by the program staff.
Students in the ECDP are often able to complete the requirements for an associate degree by the time that they graduate from high school. Students pursuing degree completion should apply for the program during their sophomore year of high school. Washington County Public Schools (WCPS), private school, and home school students are eligible to apply for this program.
Steps to Apply
Application Deadlines: Priority Deadline - March 3, 2025 | Regular Deadline - May 5, 2025
This is the only application cycle for the 2025-2026 academic year. Please submit an application if you want to enter the program in Fall 2025 or Spring 2026.
To apply for the Early College Degree Program at HCC, complete all of the steps listed below.
- Complete the online HCC Application for Admission*
- Ask the school counselor to send your high school transcript to the HCC Admissions Office. It can be emailed to admissions@hagerstowncc.edu.
- Complete the Early College Program Form*.
- Complete the Early College Degree Program Contract.
*If you completed these documents for previous HCC courses, you do not need to complete them again.
All application materials must be submitted before your application can be reviewed. If you need assistance with the application process, please contact an Early College Program staff member.
The Early College Degree Program sends decision letters within two weeks of each respective deadline. Please ensure that an appropriate mailing address is on file with the HCC Admissions Office.
Cost of Participation
Washington County Public Schools (WCPS) Students
WCPS students do not pay tuition, fee, or book costs for Early College classes (up to 60 credits per student). This applies to all semesters (fall, spring, and summer) while a student is enrolled at WCPS.
Private School and Home School Students
Private and home school students receive a 25% discount on tuition costs for Early College classes, which are based on residency. Students are responsible for fees and books/materials.
Information Sessions
January 28, 2025 from 5:30-6:30pm on Zoom
Register here for the session.
February 13, 2025 from 12:00-1:00pm on Zoom
Register here for the session.
February 19, 2025 from 6:00-7:00pm in Kepler Theater (HCC Main Campus)
Register here for the session.
March 17, 2025 from 12:00-1:00pm on Zoom
Register here for the session.
April 29, 2025 from 5:30-6:30pm on Zoom
Register here for the session.