Early College

Start College in High school

Coconino Community College partners with local high schools to offer four unique programs that empower you to earn college credit, build career skills, and discover your purpose while you’re still in high school. Each program is designed to support your goals, celebrate your strengths, and help you take confident steps toward your future.

Program Options

Dual Enrollment
Earn college credit in select high school courses, at no cost to Coconino County students. Your credits transfer statewide, giving you a head start on your degree or career.
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Concurrent Enrollment
Take CCC classes on campus or online, outside your regular high school schedule. Flexible scheduling lets you fit college courses around your life.
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CAVIAT (Career & Technical Ed)
Get hands-on experience in high-demand fields. Build practical skills, earn credentials, and explore career pathways, all while working toward college credit.
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Path2Purpose:
Student Success & Coaching
Discover your strengths, set meaningful goals, and prepare for life after high school with personalized coaching from CCC Success Coaches while still in high school.
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AP & Early College: Choosing Your Best Fit

What's the difference between AP and Early College?

Advanced Placement (AP) courses are high school classes that follow a college-level curriculum. Students may earn college credit by taking an AP exam and achieving a qualifying score. AP courses are often weighted in a student’s high school GPA, but college credit is not guaranteed because acceptance depends on exam performance and the policies of the college a student later attends. Students are responsible for any AP exam fees.

Early College allows students to take actual college courses through Coconino Community College while still in high school. Students earn college credit by successfully completing the course, and the credit is recorded on an official CCC transcript. For Coconino County students, Early College courses are offered at no tuition cost, providing an affordable way to begin earning college credit before graduation.

Which option is better for you?

Neither option is better. They simply work in different ways.

  • If you’d rather earn credit through coursework, assignments, and your final grade, Early College may be a good fit.
  • If you enjoy academically rigorous classes and are confident in a comprehensive end-of-course exam, AP may be a good fit.
  • If cost is an important consideration, Early College offers tuition-free college coursework for eligible Coconino County students, while AP students typically pay exam fees.
  • Many students choose both, combining AP and Early College courses based on their goals, interests, and academic plans.
Plan with support:
Talk with your counselor and CCC advisors to map the best route for you. Use the Arizona Course Equivalency Guide to understand how credits transfer and choose courses that align with your future degree or career.
AP Transfer PoliciesLearn more about Early College

Ready to find your fit?

Learn about each program and start your journey with CCC!

Still have questions? Contact us:
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