High School to College
On Course for College
On Course for College offers high school students several pathways to earn college credit while still in high school, including dual enrollment, concurrent enrollment, articulated credit, and defined programs of study. Many of these opportunities are funded in part or fully by the College and its secondary partners.
Under the auspices of the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act of 2018, NMCC works in partnership with Maine’s CTE regions and centers, their sending schools, business and industry, and communities to prepare students for success in the workplace or at the next level of learning.
Students who participate in On Course for College activities while still in high school could gain the following advantages:
- Transferable college credits awarded for free or at a significantly reduced cost to the student
- Less duplication of coursework at high school and college
- Advanced standing in his/her program of study
- A more efficient and effective transition from high school to college
Interested students should check with their high school guidance counselor, local CTE school, or contact Sarah Bushey at 207-760-1198 for more information.
Dual Enrollment
This program, funded by the Maine Department of Education High School Aspirations Program, the Maine Community College System, and the College, enables qualified Maine high school students to receive a full tuition waiver at NMCC. Starting with the Class of 2027, eligible students can earn up to 18 college credits tuition-free over their lifetime within semester limits. The Class of 2026 can access 12 tuition-free credits in 2025-2026. This applies to courses taken while simultaneously enrolled in a Maine high school.
Career and technical education students on approved CTE pathways are eligible for an additional six MCCS course credits on their career path.
Students may choose to take additional courses beyond the limit but will be charged the early college rates (regular fees waived, course specific fees may apply):
MCCS: $ 96 per credit hour)
All concurrent: $60 per credit hour
For more detailed information, please visit the Maine Community College website.
Interested students should contact their high school guidance counselor to begin the registration process.
Concurrent Enrollment
NMCC has partnered with several Career and Technical Education (CTE) centers throughout Maine to offer college-level courses during normal school hours. Course offerings vary by location, but may include the following:
- Introduction to Welding
- Introduction to Automotive Technology
- Introduction to Diesel Hydraulics Technology
- Introduction to Healthcare Professions
- Medical Terminology
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Introduction to Business
- Business Mathematics
- Principles of Accounting
Early Childhood Education courses, and more!
Interested students should check with their regional CTE center or guidance counselor to see what options are available.
Embark
Embark is a high school-to-college transition program designed to help high school students who are undecided about their future learn more about their college options. It offers individualized encouragement and guidance through the college admissions process and personalized financial aid support during senior year.
Embark students who choose to attend a Maine community college are eligible for a two-year scholarship and continued personalized support throughout college. High schools select students for the program during junior year and nominate eligible seniors for the scholarship opportunity. Embark is offered in over 80 high schools statewide.
For more information, students should contact their high school guidance counselor.
Embark staff serving the NMCC region:
Dr. Sarah Bushey: 207-760-1198
Email: sbushey at mainecc.edu