ACE Academy students listen to an instructor at Linn County Regional Center
For many high school students, planning for life after graduation can feel overwhelming. Kirkwood Community College’s College Credit in High School program, including its Career Academies, is helping students take that next step with confidence by earning free college credit while exploring careers before they graduate.
Through partnerships with school districts across Kirkwood’s seven-county service area, students can enroll in college-level courses at their high school, online or at one of Kirkwood’s regional centers. Every successfully completed course counts toward both a high school diploma and a future college degree, giving students a head start on college while helping families save on tuition costs. During the 2025-26 school year alone, Kirkwood’s dual enrollment partnerships saved students and families more than $12.5 million in tuition.
Career Academies provide students with even more opportunities by grouping courses around specific career fields. Programs are available in a wide range of industries, including agriculture, advanced manufacturing, business, healthcare, information technology and many others, allowing students to explore careers that match their interests while gaining valuable college experience.
In addition to earning college credit, students gain exposure to the expectations of college coursework while still benefiting from the support of their high school teachers and counselors. This early experience helps ease the transition to higher education, builds confidence and allows students to make more informed decisions about their academic and career goals.
“College Credit in High School gives students the opportunity to explore their interests while experiencing the expectations of college in a supportive environment,” said Kristy Black, executive dean of K-12 partnerships at Kirkwood Community College. “Students gain confidence, develop valuable academic skills and begin making informed decisions about their future. Whether they already know what career they want to pursue or are still exploring their options, these experiences help them move forward with purpose.”
The program is designed to meet students where they are. Some choose transfer-focused general education courses that can apply toward nearly any college major, while others participate in hands-on Career Academy experiences that introduce them to technical and career-focused fields. Credits earned through the program transfer to Kirkwood and most four-year colleges and universities, helping students reduce both the time and cost required to earn a degree.
Research continues to show the value of earning college credit before graduating from high school. Students who enter college with prior college credit often achieve higher grade point averages, are more likely to persist in college and graduate at higher rates than their peers.
“Our partnerships with local school districts are what make this program so successful,” Black said. “Together, we’re creating opportunities that allow students to discover careers, earn meaningful college credit and prepare for whatever path comes next. It is incredibly rewarding to see students graduate from high school already equipped with the knowledge, confidence and momentum to succeed in college and the workforce.”
Students interested in participating should begin by meeting with their high school counselor to discuss eligibility, available courses and the options offered through their school or Kirkwood regional center. More information about Kirkwood’s College Credit in High School program and Career Academies is available at www.kirkwood.edu/cchs.