New partnership gives CTE students a head start in 13 NCMC programs

North Central Michigan College is helping high school graduates get a head start on their college journey by expanding college credit for students who have completed high school career and technical education (CTE) programs. North Central has partnered with the Michigan Department of Education's Office of Career and Technical Education to provide NCMC credit for high school CTE courses aligned with 13 of the college's academic programs.

“This initiative underscores North Central’s commitment to fostering seamless transitions from high school to college and providing even more accessible pathways to higher education,” said NCMC Dual Enrollment Coordinator Cassidy Leirstein. "Now CTE graduates can save money on tuition while accelerating their progress in programs they’re already interested and invested in, including accounting, business, education, and engineering."

CTE programs offer Michigan high school students hands-on learning experiences aligned with in-demand, high-wage careers in fields such as business, information technology, healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing. In Michigan, 106,077 high school students were enrolled in 2,130 CTE programs during the 2021-22 school year. Six months after their high school graduation, 71% reported that they were using the skills learned in their CTE programs for continuing education or in their current job.

Locally, career and technical education is popular throughout Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District. There are more than 1,050 high school students in 50 classes in 21 different program categories, from aviation to lineworker training to welding. Classes are held at all 11 public school districts in Charlevoix, Emmet and northern Antrim counties. Programs include academic coursework, work experience, occupational training, career counseling, and joint activities between business and education.

CTE is an essential component of the total educational system that is critical to workforce development, according to Jim Rummer, Char-Em's director of Career and Technical Education.

“Articulated credit serves as a crucial time- and money-saving tool for students, enabling them to accelerate their educational journey by recognizing prior learning achievements,” Rummer said. “By bypassing redundant coursework, students can expedite their path to graduation, saving both time and money while still achieving their academic goals.”

Ryan McClintic, CTE administrator for Cheboygan Schools, agrees.

"This partnership between high school CTE programs and North Central Michigan College is a monumental step forward for our students, offering them a unique and powerful advantage as they transition from high school to higher education,” McClintic said. “It's not just about earning college credits; it's about valuing their hard work and dedication in their chosen CTE fields, recognizing their achievements, and providing them with a solid foundation for their future careers.”

To receive North Central credit, students must have completed the entire state-approved CTE program in high school with a “B” or better, must be registered for courses at North Central, and must apply to the college within two years of high school graduation. Once accepted by NCMC, high school articulated credit may not transfer to other colleges or universities. Students should check with the college or university they are transferring to from NCMC to see if the credits are eligible for transfer.

"North Central is committed to providing a culture of academic excellence and accessibility, and this partnership exemplifies our dedication to providing students with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-evolving economy,” said NCMC Vice President of Academic Affairs Stephen Strom. “We look forward to welcoming and supporting the next generation of Michigan's workforce on their educational journey."

For more information about North Central credit for CTE programs, visit North Central's website.