Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Early College?
An Early College is an educational format that offers an integrated curriculum of high school and college courses resulting in both a high school diploma and a college certificate, associate’s degree, or up to two years of college credit. Typically, students are enrolled in Early Colleges for five years, starting with the ninth grade.
The Henry Ford Early College is focused on preparing students for professions in health care careers. It is the result of collaboration between the Dearborn Public Schools, Henry Ford Community College and Henry Ford Health System.
Where will the Henry Ford Early College be held?
The programs will take place in a college setting, specifically Henry Ford Community College and Henry Ford Health System in Detroit. For the first two years, students will spend the majority of their time at the HFCC Dearborn Heights Campus (Ann Arbor Trail and Warren). Science laboratories and clinical observation experiences will be held at Henry Ford Hospital and at Henry Ford Health System Corporate Offices at 1 Ford Place (near W. Grand Boulevard and Lodge Expressway).
Starting with their junior year, students will spend increasing amounts of their time taking classes on the HFCC main campus and in clinical settings and practicum at Henry Ford Health System sites.
What type of background should a person have to enter this program?
Students with all sorts of backgrounds may find this program to their advantage. However, the curriculum is oriented to prepare students for specific health career occupations, so students should be interested in pursuing one of these fields. The Henry Ford Early College currently offers programs in Respiratory Therapy, Physical Therapy Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Surgical Technician and Radiographer.
If I want to be a doctor or a pharmacist, is this for me?
This program is for those who have an interest in professional occupations in health care, such as respiratory therapist, pharmacy technician, surgical technologist, physical therapy assistant, and radiographer. The courses taken will prepare students for these specific positions. Henry Ford Early College does not offer the prerequisite coursework for a career as a doctor, registered nurse or pharmacist.
Is this free?
Students will be entitled to take classes for five years (rather than the four for a normal high school student). Should the student not complete the program in five years, she/he will be responsible for all costs after the fifth year. For those who take more than five years, financial aid may be available to defray the cost of completing the program.
Then, can I complete the program in five years?
All programs are designed to be completed by the successful student in five years.
From which school will I graduate?
Students will receive a high school diploma from Henry Ford Early College. The associate’s degree would be awarded by Henry Ford Community College. Additionally, students would receive certification through the appropriate regulatory body following passage of the certifying exam.
What about sports and other activities?
Students should realize that their schedule may be different than those at “traditional high schools”. College classes may be offered in the evening, late afternoons, even on Saturdays as well as in late spring and summer. Commitment to the Early College programs may pose interference with extra-curricular participation.
What are the expectations of students in the classroom?
Students will be expected to work at a college level beginning at the ninth grade. The environment and program will require students to devote greater effort, more time on academics, and a greater commitment to learning than most other high school students are asked to display.
Will I be expected to take college classes in ninth grade?
No. College-level classes will begin in tenth grade. Students will be expected to develop the habits of behavior and of mind that are required of all successful college students beginning the first day of class.
Will there be an entrance exam?
There is no entrance exam. However, some college classes require students to pass qualifying/placement exams for entry. Those who are unable to meet the passing level will be expected to take remedial classes until they reach the qualifying level. Taking remedial classes may mean that students will not be able to complete the program within the five-year time span.
Is this program open to students from other school districts?
Yes. It will be open to students in all school districts in Wayne County. All Henry Ford Early College students will be enrolled in the Dearborn Public School District.
What kind of support will be available for students?
Students will have very personal attention in this program. Mentors, counselors, job supervisors, and college tutorials will be available. However, special education support will be available only in the high school classes. Once the student enters the college courses, very limited special education assistance will be available.
Will I be able to continue for a four-year degree?
Many local universities apply the associate’s degree attained in these programs to four-year degrees in other health care -related fields such as hospital administration. Henry Ford Health System presently offers tuition reimbursement for employees to continue their education.
How do I apply?
Potential students should contact the Henry Ford Early College office @ 313.317.1588 for application packets.
Contact Information:
Dr. Jerry Dodd
Principal, Henry Ford Early College
313-317-1588
