UMM senior Ryan Mola in the university’s geographic information systems (GIS) laboratory. A certificate in GIS is one of seven recent additions to UMM's Early College program, aimed at encouraging career exploration and degree completion among young Mainers.

Expanded Early College program at UMM adds new certificates, scholarships

October 29, 2020 Outreach, Student Life

In response to workforce needs in the region and the state, the Early College program at the University of Maine at Machias has expanded to include seven new certificate pathways and additional scholarship opportunities.

The program, which allows high school students to earn college credits at UMM, now offers certificates in aquaculture, conservation law, creative arts, geographic information systems, inclusive early childhood education, supporting diverse learners and outdoor leadership. 

Most of the 13–19 credit certificates can be completed online. The majority of students qualify for a full tuition waiver funded by the University of Maine System and Maine’s Department of Education.

Students who complete the certificates are offered scholarship opportunities if they enroll at UMM for the fall semester after their graduation, including the opportunity to apply for a room and board waiver valued at $4,600. A new scholarship added this year provides $500 toward undergraduate tuition at any school in the University of Maine System.

Students can apply now for spring semester courses at explorec.maine.edu. For more information, contact UMM Early College program director Christy Alley, 207.225.1268; ummearlycollege@maine.edu; or visit machias.edu/earlycollege.