Early College FAQs
Frequent Asked Questions
What is the Early College Career Center (ECCC)?
It is established as a partnership between Vincennes University & Area 31 Career Center to provide students the opportunity to earn a High School Diploma and an Associate’s Degree in Pharmacy Technology, Culinary Arts, or Precision Machining.
Who can attend the ECCC?
Any student in good standing who is accepted by the Area 31 Career Center enrollment committee is eligible to participate. There is an online application that students must complete. Please contact Area 31 Career Center or your home school counselor for more information.
What are the admission requirements?
- Students will follow the academic, attendance, and behavioral guidelines outlined by Area 31 Career Center and the MSD of Wayne Township.
- Students must be on track to be promoted to the next grade level.
- Students on Wayne Township Vincennes Career Academy for their 9th grade year will be given priority placement.
BDU & ECCC share many qualities. What is the difference between ECCC and BDU?
Ben Davis University and ECCC are early college programs offered through the MSD of Wayne Township. While the two Early College Programs share many similarities, some of the primary differences are the degree programs and the location. The Associate Degrees with ECCC focus on different career pathways, and since the classes are held at Ben Davis and Area 31 Career Center, students are allowed to participate in sports, band, choir, extra-curriculars, etc. as their schedule allows.
If I am not interested in one of the 3 program areas, can I still participate in the ECCC?
Beginning in their 10th grade year, students in the ECCC will have classes together and complete the program as a cohort. If a student is interested in withdrawing or switching to another ECCC major, the student’s parents should contact the Area 31 Career Pathway specialists. Please note that while we believe in finding the right program and degree for your student(s), we strongly encourage students to take advantage of this tuition-free Associate Degree program.
How much is the tuition?
The high school tuition for all Area 31 Career Center programs is paid by the local school district. Depending on your local school corporation, there may be extra fees such as college tuition, textbooks, uniforms, supplies and/or materials that may require payment by the student or parent. The ECCC strives to keep any of these costs at a minimum.
Will these college credits transfer to a four-year university?
Yes is the wildly accepted answer; however, it is up to each postsecondary institution to determine how they will evaluate a student’s transcript and decide which courses will apply toward a four year degree. Vincennes University is Indiana’s oldest college and is highly recognized among Indiana state supported four year universities.
Will there be other program areas available soon?
Yes, our hope is to have a variety of Associate Degree areas available for our students. Potential programs include: Construction, Health Careers, Criminal Justice, Networking and Cyber Security and many more. Even though there are currently only 3 programs in ECCC, all Area 31 Career Center programs offer college credits.