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Earn two years of college tuition-free.
Early College Academy
Through Miami University’s Early College Academy, motivated high school students can complete two years of college at no cost while earning both high school and college credit.
Earn Your Miami University Associate Degree — While in High School.
Miami’s Early College Academy (ECA) gives qualified high school students the opportunity to graduate college-ready — with an associate degree from Miami University — all before finishing high school.
Offered through Ohio’s College Credit Plus (CCP) program, ECA covers tuition, fees, and textbooks, allowing students to earn up to 62 college credit hours at no cost to families.
Get ahead
Earn college credit and work toward your Miami University degree before high school graduation.
Experience college life
Learn on Miami’s Middletown and Hamilton campuses with full student privileges.
Receive support
Advisors and mentors guide you every step of the way.
Build confidence
Gain the independence and academic skills to thrive in college and beyond.
Early College Degree Pathways
Associate of Arts in General Studies
Build a strong academic foundation.
Earn a transferable Associate of Arts degree in general studies while in high school.
Associate of Applied Science in Engineering Technology
Launch your engineering career early.
Begin the Engineering Technology pathway in high school and earn your associate of applied science degree at Miami University Regionals just one year after graduation.
Our Partner Schools
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Who can apply?
ECA is open to students from participating high schools who:
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Demonstrate strong attendance, responsibility, and behavior
- Participate in school or community activities
- Show motivation for college-level learning
Priority consideration is given to first-generation college students and those with demonstrated academic potential.
ECA by the Numbers
75
students in the graduating class of 2025
177
enrolled students in fall 2025
80%
of ECA students are first-generation
Early College Academy
My critical thinking and my writing skills have improved dramatically since being here. I improved in ways I never thought I would.
Alex Marcum
2025 ECA Graduate, Franklin High School
The ECA program has been an invaluable learning opportunity for my daughter. It has taught her discipline and effective time management as she juggles not only college level courses, but a part time job as well. The program has afforded her the ability to get first hand insight and experience of what college life is like.
Ashley Moore
ECA Parent
I wanted more of an academic challenge and a more mature environment. I was glad to be on a college campus.
Abigail Evans
2025 ECA Graduate, Winton Woods High School
It feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I’m halfway there.
Kaydence Young
2025 ECA Graduate, Middletown High School
Early College Academy (ECA) — Frequently Asked Questions
The Early College Academy (ECA) gives qualified high school students the opportunity to earn a Miami University associate degree while completing their high school diploma or to get a head start on a pathway toward an applied associate degree. Through Ohio’s College Credit Plus (CCP) program, students take Miami coursework at no cost, gaining valuable college experience and a strong foundation for future success
Tuition, textbooks, and course fees are fully covered through the College Credit Plus program. Your high school provides transportation, so there is no cost to students or families.
ECA is open to students attending participating partner high schools who:
- Maintain at least a 3.0 GPA
- Demonstrate strong attendance and behavior
- Are active in school or community activities
- Show readiness for college-level coursework
- Priority consideration is given to first-generation college students and those with strong academic potential.
- Associate of Arts (AA): A flexible, transfer-focused program that builds a foundation in liberal arts and general education. This is a great option for students planning to pursue bachelor’s degrees in business, education, or social sciences.
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS): A hands-on, career-focused program in Electrical & Computer Engineering Technology that can be completed alongside your high school diploma with two years of CCP coursework and one year of college coursework at Miami Regionals.
Students typically complete the ECA program over two academic years (junior and senior year of high school). Each semester, they take college-level courses alongside their high school classes.
Yes! ECA students remain fully enrolled in their high school and can continue participating in sports, clubs, and other extracurricular activities.
Courses are offered at Miami University Regionals (Hamilton, Middletown, or online) and may include a mix of in-person, hybrid, and online classes, depending on your schedule and program requirements.
ECA students receive academic advising, tutoring, and mentoring through both their high school and Miami University Regionals. Dedicated ECA coordinators help balance college and high school commitments.
Yes. Both the AA and AAS programs include Ohio Transfer 36 coursework, ensuring transferability to public colleges and universities across Ohio and many private institutions.
Submit your application by April 1. You’ll provide transcripts and recommendations from your high school and may be invited for an interview or information session.
Contact Miami University Regionals Admission or your high school guidance counselor for details about eligibility, scheduling, and the application process.
Email: ccpregionals@MiamiOH.edu
Phone: 513-727-3449
Meet the Team
Our dedicated support staff is here to help guide, support, and champion your success throughout your academic journey.
Early College Academy
Laurel Gilbert
Director of Dual Credit Programs
