The Early College program provides an opportunity for high school students to earn college credit. College credit may be earned through dual enrollment, concurrent enrollment, and/or articulation (credit by exam).

The Benefits

The Early College Program will provide high school students with the opportunity to:

• Earn college credit while still in high school
• Get a head-start on college education and career readiness
• Provide a seamless transition into college and career options
• Save on tuition costs and related expenses. Tuition is typically waived for high school students taking college courses. 

Program Opportunities

Dual Enrollment

High School districts offer college courses to their students during and after the high school day through Dual Enrollment.

Here are some facts about Dual Enrollment at PC.

• Most, if not all, students in the class are high school students.
• Courses are taught by qualified high school instructors who serve as adjuncts for PC or online by PC faculty.
• Students are approved and enrolled through their high school district.
• All fees are waived and required materials are provided.

Concurrent Enrollment

High school students can take courses at a Porterville College campus, or online, through Concurrent Enrollment.

Here are some facts about Concurrent Enrollment at PC.

• Most of the students in the class will be traditional PC college students.
• All courses are taught by college instructors.
• Students are approved by their high school administrator or counselor.
• Students must be cleared by Admissions and Records to register in their courses.
• Tuition cost is waived, but minimal fees apply and must be paid by the student.
• Textbooks are not provided and must be purchased by the student, if required.

Articulation/Credit by Exam:

Credit through an articulated Career Technical Education (CTE) course can be earned through a credit-by-exam process. The college faculty can determine what the “exam” may be for the purpose of assessing knowledge for the identified class. This can include but is not limited to a combination of:

• tests
• papers
• projects
• essays, etc.
• or it can be only one of these elements

The faculty may decide to count the assignments, tests, projects, etc. for the identified high school class for assessment of knowledge & skills for this “exam” purpose. The discretion is with the college discipline faculty.