Cumberlands opens Early College Program to McCreary Central High School

Students at McCreary Central High School have a new opportunity to obtain college credit prior to high school graduation.

University of the Cumberlands is opening its Early College Program to McCreary County School District. This Patriot Pathways program allows high school students to enter an associate degree program prior to their high school graduation. Students can then earn a high school diploma and a college degree at the same time.

Application for the Early College Program is free of charge and always open. More than a dozen associate and associate of applied science degree programs are available online or in-seat through Cumberlands. (For a full listing of programs, visit www.ucumberlands.edu/academics.) Juniors and seniors at local high schools that provide Early College Program classes in-seat on their school’s campus can take those classes for less than $50 each. Kentucky students have the opportunity to take two classes free of charge during their high school career and may apply for scholarships to help cover additional courses. (Visit www.ucumberlands.edu/patriot-pathways for more information.)

Dr. Jennifer Simpson, associate dean of academic affairs at Cumberlands, said, “As a former McCreary Central High School teacher and a parent of a student in the McCreary County School District, I am excited for the students of McCreary County to get an early start to earning college credit. Cumberlands has wonderful faculty and a supportive staff that will equip McCreary County students make a difference in our region.”

Corey Keith, superintendent at McCreary Central, said, “We are very excited about this opportunity for our students.  The Early College Pathway will be a great addition to our offerings at McCreary Central High School.  We look forward to a great partnership with University of the Cumberlands.”

Cumberlands is partnered with Corbin High School, Whitley County High School, and Williamsburg Independent School District to offer the Patriot Pathways Early College Program for local high school students. More information can be found at www.ucumberlands.edu/patriot-pathways.