Early College Degree Program | Hagerstown Community College
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Early College Degree Program

Early College Degree Program

What is the Early College Degree Program?

The Early College Degree Program (ECDP) at Hagerstown Community College (HCC) is a full-time dual enrollment opportunity designed for college-ready high school juniors and seniors. The ECDP provides students with an experience similar to that of a traditional college student. Instead of attending high school during the week, they enroll in a full load of college classes each semester by developing an individualized schedule with an Early College advisor.

The ECDP is a cohort program. Interested students must meet admission requirements, complete a supplemental application by the deadline, and be accepted into the program to participate.

Students who participate in this program during junior and senior year have the opportunity to earn an associate degree from HCC by the time that they graduate from high school.

Steps to Apply

Application Deadlines: Priority Deadline - March 1, 2026 | Regular Deadline - May 1, 2026

This is the only application cycle per year. Please apply by the posted deadlines if you want to enter the program in the upcoming fall or spring semester.

To apply for the Early College Degree Program at HCC, complete all of the steps listed below.

  1. Complete the online HCC Application for Admission*
  2. Ask the school counselor to send your high school transcript to the HCC Admissions Office. It can be emailed to admissions@hagerstowncc.edu.
  3. Complete the Early College Program Form*.
  4. Complete the Early College Degree Program Contract.

*If you completed these documents for previous HCC courses, you do not need to complete them again.

All application materials must be submitted before your application can be reviewed. If you need assistance with the application process, please contact an Early College Program staff member.

The Early College Degree Program sends decision letters within two weeks of each respective deadline. Please ensure that an appropriate mailing address is on file with the HCC Admissions Office.