Early College Program
What is the Early College Program?
The Early College Program (ECP) is a structured high school acceleration program in which students are enrolled in postsecondary courses toward an associate degree while simultaneously earning their high school diploma. This program will begin in 9th grade with students enrolling in some Dual Enrollment (DE) coursework in combination with high school classes. By 11th grade, Early College students will be taking DE coursework fulltime through a variety of modalities such as on campus, virtually via Pasco eSchool, and at PHSC (on campus and/or online). Students will collaborate with the ECP counselor to design pathways that will best meet their post-secondary aspirations with the goal of earning an AA degree by graduation.
All students interested must apply to be a part of the Early College Program utilizing the Pasco Pathways School Choice Application. Student applications will be reviewed to ensure the application meets eligibility criteria included.
Entrance Criteria
9th grade:
Student interest
Student interview
10th grade:
Student interest
Student interview
Maintain a 3.0 GPA
11th and 12th grade:
Students new to the program must apply through the School Choice Application and will be reviewed for the following criteria.
Students must meet criteria set by statute and PHSC to complete enrollment
Be enrolled as a student in a Florida public or nonpublic secondary school (grades 6-12), or in a home education program
Have a 3.0 unweighted high school grade point average (GPA) to enroll in college credits, or a 2.0 unweighted high school GPA to enroll in career dual enrollment courses
For college credits, achieve a minimum score on a common placement test
Early College Program is offered at Fivay and Zephyrhills High School. Early College Pathways are determined by your zoned high school.
Visit our Pasco Pathways page to find application information and view more helpful resources.
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