Early College: Calvert County

Early College Program

image of woman with a graduation cap with the early college logoEarly College is a dual enrollment program for rising juniors and seniors in Calvert County Public Schools.

About CSM Early College

Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) and College of Southern Maryland (CSM) are proud to announce a new partnership to bring CCPS high school students and their families the CSM Early College Program. Aligning with the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, this program is open to rising juniors seniors from CCPS high schools. This tuition-free program is an opportunity to experience being a full-time college student, save money, and earn college credits while still in high school.

Students will take college classes on the CSM Prince Frederick Campus, while simultaneously fulfilling their high school graduation requirements. Students will earn their high school diploma while also earning a college certificate of degree. The General Studies Transfer Certificate (25 credits) is a one-year program for Seniors who would like to transfer their credits to a 2-year or 4-year institution. The Business Administration Associates degree is a two-year program for rising Juniors which can lead to bachelor degrees in business, accounting, entrepreneurship, and more!  Applications open late fall for the next academic year.

  • As an Early College student, you’ll get the full experience of being a CSM student taking college classes full time.
  • You’ll attend class at the Prince Frederick Campus Monday through Thursday, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., in CSM’s fully equipped classroom spaces and labs.
  • You’ll have access to CSM facilities and resources, as well as a comprehensive network of support services provided by both CSM and your home high school.
  • You’ll experience the pace and rigor of college-level coursework. Most importantly, you’ll see the reward for your dedication and effort when you graduate high school with your diploma and a full year of college credit.

Program Benefits

Seniors will earn a General Transfer Certificate for completion of 25 college credits, approximately half an associate degree or the first year of a four-year degree.

CCPS covers tuition, fees, and course materials.

Students will take college classes full time at CSM’s Prince Frederick Campus and will experience the pace and rigor of college-level coursework.

Students will have access to CSM’s top-notch support services, including academic support. Students who hold IEP/504 plans can apply for services at CSM. Visit www.csmd.edu/DisabilityServices to learn more.

Costs

  • CCPS will fully cover students’ CSM tuition, fees, and course materials.
  • CCPS will provide transportation and boxed lunches.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Be a rising junior or senior.
  • Transcript will be reviewed for:
    • Algebra 2 with a grade of B or higher 
    • Unweighted GPA
    • Student Service Learning
    • State Testing
  • Counselor Recommendation

How to Apply

Thank you for your interest in Early College. The application for 2025-2026 is now closed. We will reopen soon!

Parents and guardians with questions can contact their child’s high school counselor. For information on the program, contact us at EarlyCollege@csmd.edu.

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