In partnership with the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD), MPC is launching two Early College High School programs which allow students to start college in 9th grade, earning free college credit while completing high school. The HEART Academy will be designed for students interested in Allied Health and the MIND Academy focuses on studies in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math).
Contact With Questions
dualenrollment@mpc.eduWhat Is Early College High School?
The Early College High School model is designed to help students graduate high school prepared for college or a career, earn up to two years of college credit while still enrolled in high school, and make higher education more affordable and accessible.
An Early College High School program allows students to earn both high school and college credit at the same time, at no cost to families. Instead of waiting until after graduation, students begin taking real college courses in 9th grade, supported by teachers, counselors, and college staff who are trained to help high school students succeed in a college environment. College coursework is embedded into the high school day and offered directly on the high school campus. This model removes common barriers such as transportation challenges, complicated enrollment systems, and limited access to college guidance.
Learn More at the Community Presentations
Important Dates & Deadlines
- Application Opens - January 12, 2026
- Application Deadline - April 10, 2026
- Interview Conducted - May 2026 (Subject to Change)
- Notification of Acceptance - June 2026 or Earlier
Application Packet (English) Application Packet (Spanish)
Program Focus Areas
Why Early College?
By completing general education coursework as part of their high school schedule, students can graduate having satisfied CSU and UC lower-division general education requirements. Many students will enter college as sophomores or juniors, saving families thousands of dollars in tuition and living expenses while accelerating progress toward a four-year degree.
Just as important, students develop confidence, college knowledge, and a strong sense of belonging as college-going scholars—starting in 9th grade.
Early College students receive consistent, long-term support beginning in 9th grade. This includes dedicated counseling and case management, on-site tutoring and academic support, and purposeful cohort-building to foster community and connection.
Students also benefit from mentorship and career talks with local Allied Health and STEM professionals, as well as family workshops that help caregivers understand college processes, financial aid, and transfer pathways.
Who Should Apply?
This program is designed for current 8th grade students who are:
- Curious & motivated to challenge themselves
- Interested in earning college credit while in high school
- Ready to be part of a supportive, college-going community
- Excited about exploring Allied Health, STEM, and university transfer pathways
You don’t need perfect grades—just drive, responsibility, and a willingness to grow.
The admissions process prioritizes first-generation college students, students from low-income backgrounds, and those who have been historically underrepresented in higher education. The Early College High School model is intentionally designed to bring college directly to students and provide the guidance and support needed to succeed.
HEART Academy
The HEART Academy is an Early College High School pathway for students interested in careers in health and allied health fields. Through a rigorous, integrated program that combines high school and college coursework, students complete the Cal-GETC pattern while building foundational knowledge and skills aligned with high-demand health professions. Beginning in 9th grade, students engage in hands-on learning, career exploration, and dual enrollment, allowing them to earn significant college credit while developing the academic readiness, confidence, and momentum needed to successfully transition into nursing, medical assisting, public health, and related fields. Grounded in equity and access, the HEART Academy provides a clear, supportive pathway to college and career success.
Potential Careers:
- Registered Nurse - Entry Wage: $110K, Experienced Wage: $172K
- Occupational Therapist - Entry Wage: $194K, Experienced Wage: $129K
- Physical Therapist - Entry Wage: $95K, Experienced Wage: $135K
MIND Academy
The MIND Academy is an Early College High School pathway designed for students interested in STEM, computer science, and emerging technologies. Through a cohesive program that integrates high school and college coursework, students complete the Cal-GETC pattern while engaging in rigorous, future-focused learning aligned with high-growth, high-wage STEM fields. Beginning in 9th grade, students take dual enrollment courses that build strong foundations in mathematics, coding, engineering principles, and problem-solving, with an emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and real-world application. This pathway prepares students to pursue college majors and careers in areas such as computer science, engineering, cybersecurity, robotics, and data science.
Potential Careers:
- Software Engineer - Entry Wage: $94K, Experienced Wage: $145K
- Mechatronics Engineer - Entry Wage: $106K, Experienced Wage: $179K
- Robotics Engineer - Entry Wage: $104K, Experienced Wage: $153K