Frequently Asked Questions
Why should a student enroll in the Hillsdale County EMC Program?
- Opportunity to complete upwards of an associate degree at no cost to the student or family by participating in an intense five-year experience
- Access to six academic pathways with numerous associate degrees to choose from at Jackson College
- Located on a college campus with a college level expectation for behavior and academic quality
- Instruction by highly qualified teachers and college instructors
- Small class sizes
- Employability skills with local sought-after credentials
When do I apply?
Students who are interested in applying should complete the online application and upload required supplemental items. The application opens in January.
What is the application process?
- Submit a completed online application
- Upload all supplemental items
- Mandatory assessments
- Student/parent interview
- Attend a required student orientation
- Parent orientation
Where are HCEMC courses held?
At the Jackson College campuses.
What are the completion requirements for the HCEMC?
- A student enrolled in the HCEMC program shall complete all Michigan Merit Curriculum requirements at their local school district during their freshman, sophomore, junior and senior years.
- The final year math credit requirement of the Michigan Merit Curriculum, not completed at the local school district, shall be completed in the fifth year of the HCEMC program at Jackson College.
- Student must successfully complete and earn a minimum of 15 college credit hours.
- Complete either 100 hours of community service or 40 hours of career exploration, internship, job shadowing, or clinical experience, or a combination of the two that equals 70-plus hours.
- Must complete all graduation requirements of their home district.
Who teaches HCEMC classes?
All Jackson College courses will be taught by JC instructors. Courses taken at a student’s home district will be taught by teachers in their home district.
How long can a student stay in the HCEMC program?
Three years. Students will enter the program beginning in their third year of high school and complete one year following the completion of their fourth year of high school.
What calendar does the HCEMC follow?
Students enrolled in the HCEMC will follow both the JC calendar and their home district’s calendar.
Can I participate in traditional sports and extracurricular activities in my resident school district?
Yes, through the end of the fourth year.
Can I start taking college courses right away?
Based upon HCEMC competencies and standards, a student may begin in their first semester by taking Seminar in Life Pathways (SEM 140).
Is transportation provided?
It is the student’s responsibility to arrange transportation. If transportation is an issue, please speak to your local district.
Can special education students enroll?
Yes. Additionally, special education students who join the HCEMC work directly with Jackson College’s Office of Academic Support Services. Students are expected to learn how to monitor their own educational progress, advocate for their own learning needs, and successfully negotiate their way through the post-secondary environment. We believe that successful HCEMC students must be willing to take responsibility for their own effort, education and behavior.