A partnership between Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) and Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) has paved the way for the launch of the Collegiate High School, a program that allows high school students to take college courses on NOVA’s college campus and earn credits while completing their high school education.
This initiative, located at NOVA’s Woodbridge campus and Freedom High School, is designed to give students a head start on their higher education journey, potentially earning an associate’s degree or general studies certificate by the time they graduate high school.
Dr. Richmond Hill, provost at NOVA’s Woodbridge Campus, described the program as a major opportunity for students to not only earn college credits early but also to save time and money. “Students can come to NOVA, earn college credits, and either continue with us to complete their associate’s degree or take their credits to a four-year university and enter as a junior,” said Dr. Hill.
The program is set to grow, with more students and schools expected to participate in the future. “This is just the beginning,” Dr. Hill remarked, “and it’s going to continue to gain momentum.”
The inaugural class of Collegiate High School students will be attending classes on NOVA’s Woodbridge campus while also attending Freedom High. The idea for the program came from a collaborative effort between NOVA, PWCS, and Freedom, all of whom saw the value in offering early college access to students.
Dr. Stephanie Soliven, associate superintendent for teaching and learning for PWCS, emphasized that the Collegiate High School program is based on a proven model, grounded in research and best practices. “We wanted to ensure that our students would thrive in this academically rigorous environment,” she said.
The program gives students access to a wider range of courses through NOVA, allowing them to explore their interests while building a strong academic transcript full of college credits. Students who qualify for the program, based on their GPA and test scores, are essentially accepted into college while still in high school.
“This is a unique opportunity for students to manage the demands of both high school and college, juggling multiple schedules, working with college professors, and engaging with advanced coursework,” Dr. Soliven explained. “These are the skills that the future workforce demands, and we are preparing our students to meet those challenges.”
The program provides a supportive environment that helps students navigate college life while still benefiting from the structure and guidance of their high school.
Both Dr. Hill and Dr. Soliven emphasized the importance of this program for students’ futures. “This is about preparing our students for success,” Dr. Hill said. “It’s about giving them the opportunity to explore college, save money on tuition, and get a jumpstart on their education.”
Dr. Soliven echoed this sentiment, adding, “When students graduate from high school with college credits, they are better prepared for the future. They know that college is for them, and they are ready to succeed.”
As the Collegiate High School continues to grow, it will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on students, families, and the broader community.