Dual Enrollment for HCPSS Students
JumpStart is a partnership between HCC and Howard County Public Schools (HCPSS), designed for HCPSS students who would like to dually enroll in college courses at HCC.
Flexible Programs
Explore careers and interests, gain exposure to college coursework, and increase college success. Take one or two classes per semester, at your high school or on the Howard Community College (HCC) campus, with the option to attend HCC full time during your senior year.
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HCC Campus-Based College Credit
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High School-Based Dual Credit
Get on the fast track for advanced education by making the commitment to an Early College program starting in ninth or 10th grade. These programs combine high school-based and HCC campus-based dual credit for a structured pathway to high school graduation, and are open to HCPSS students.
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Early College: 30 Credit Option
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Early College: Degree Option (60 Credits)
Explore Early College Programs Apply Through HCPSS
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How Much Does It Cost?
- HCC discounts its tuition 50% for JumpStart students, and as of October 7, 2022, HCPSS will now cover the cost of tuition and consolidated fees for JumpStart students*. This means HCPSS students and their families can take JumpStart dual enrollment courses without paying tuition.
- Starting Fall 2023, JumpStart students who take approved dual enrollment courses at the HCC campus will have their course fees and required textbook costs covered by HCPSS, in addition to tuition and consolidated fees.
- Course fees are listed in the class schedule prior to registration each semester.
- Students receiving Free and Reduced-price Meal services (FARMs) can be eligible for additional assistance.
- High School students are not eligible for federal student aid.
*Tuition and Fees are not waived in the Summer semester(s) for Dual Enrolled students. Learn about our Summer payment deadlines and payment plan options.
- HCC discounts its tuition 50% for JumpStart students, and as of October 7, 2022, HCPSS will now cover the cost of tuition and consolidated fees for JumpStart students*. This means HCPSS students and their families can take JumpStart dual enrollment courses without paying tuition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do JumpStart students earn college credit?
Students are eligible to receive college credits after successfully completing the course. Some courses have prerequisites to enroll.
Will college credits earned at HCC transfer?
HCC credits will transfer to Maryland public four-year colleges and universities and most private and out-of-state colleges and universities3. HCC transfer advisors will assist students in planning for transfer to the college of their choice.
Am I required to attend HCC after graduation?
While structured programs provide a clear path for completing an associate degree at HCC, the college credits earned may be transferred elsewhere.
I am an HCPSS parent/student with more questions about JumpStart.
Visit the HCPSS website for more information.
What is the difference between Dual Credit, AP Credit and GT Credit?
Learn more about the various Educational Choices in High School
1 - Prerequisites may be required for enrollment in some courses.
2 - Semester start dates for HCC campus-based courses may differ from HCPSS start dates. Students enrolled in HCC campus-based classes will follow the HCC calendar, with fall semester beginning earlier than HCPSS.
3 - Transferability of credits may vary depending on the course and the college or university.