More high school students seeking early college opportunities, $3.5M tuition cost savings

Madison College's Early College programs are redefining educational pathways for area high school students and saving families $3.5 million in tuition.

In the 2023-2024 academic year, Madison College helped 4,851 students earn college credit before graduating from high school.

Notably, 83% of these students participated in dual credit courses in their high school, while others took classes with Madison College instructors. An impressive 255 students were taking classes full-time at a Madison College campus. Collectively, students earned an impressive 20,848 credits.

The data reveals remarkable trends: three school districts—Lake Mills, Poynette, and Columbus—have reported increases in the number of students earning college credit, with growth rates of 408%, 208%, and 100%, respectively. 

Saving families tuition costs

The early college program also provided substantial financial relief to families, with estimated savings of around $3.5 million. This is noteworthy, especially in today's economy, and underscores the program's broader economic impact.

Students can access various opportunities at Madison College. Dual credits are Madison College courses taught in local high schools by qualified high school teachers. STEM Academy and Education Academy are full-time at Madison College campuses. Students can also elevate their learning with Early College Academies, a series of courses that lead to college or industry credentials while in high school. Participants find success in learning new skills in nursing, basic early childhood education, biotechnical laboratory support assistant, emergency medical responder, emergency medical technician, and more. 

Madison College’s dual enrollment programs also provide greater access to higher education, especially for students from marginalized or underserved backgrounds.

High school juniors and seniors can access the Start College Now application to enroll in Madison College courses taught by Madison College faculty, in-person, online, and in hybrid formats. Students must turn in applications to their high school counselor by March 1 for fall semester, and Oct. 1 for spring semester.

If you have questions, please contact Madison College Early College Partnership Manager Audra Cook at amcooke@madisoncollege.edu