February 15th, 2023 by WCBC Radio
Beginning in the fall of 2023, Frostburg State University will partner with Allegany County Public Schools to offer the Bobcat Academy – a dual enrollment pilot program to give motivated high school juniors and seniors an immersive college experience and an opportunity to earn college credits while simultaneously completing high school.
Students meeting the eligibility requirements and who are interested in applying for acceptance into the Bobcat Academy will have the opportunity to do so at several Open House events. The dates are as follows: Monday, Feb. 20, at 11 a.m. at Allegany High School and Wednesday, March 1, at 11 a.m. at Fort Hill High School. FSU will also host a virtual Open House event on March 1 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (bit.ly/3E2VF9i). High school counselors and FSU admissions counselors will be on hand to assist students with applications, transcripts and course selection.
All classes for the Bobcat Academy will be offered on the FSU campus, which will allow for a true college experience. These academically gifted students will also be challenged with exposure to early higher education, and upon high school graduation, will gain acceptance into FSU where they can complete their pursuit of a bachelor’s degree and beyond.
“National research has shown that high school students who complete college credit during their high school years are more likely to graduate from college in four years,” said Ronald Nowaczyk, president of FSU. “We are excited for this opportunity to encourage and support area students through this educational option. This program is unique in our region, providing students with the ability to feel like part of a university campus while still in high school. We look forward to having ACPS students on campus for the Bobcat Academy and hope they continue their education as Bobcats after high school.”
The Bobcat Academy is a mutually beneficial partnership for ACPS students, parents and the University. Students will be on track to complete college in just three years, or they may choose to take advantage of this extra time to pursue a double major. Additionally, students will be able to begin the transition to a more independent college life while still having support at home. FSU will receive the benefit of attracting local, high-achieving and motivated students to increase full-time enrollment.
Course selection for an appropriate educational pathway will occur in collaboration with high school counselors and dedicated FSU program advisors and will include four options for the 2023-24 school year in exercise and sports science, psychology, environmental science, and recreation and parks management.
Like other dual enrollment offerings, eligibility for the Bobcat Academy will be based on GPA and college and career readiness. Successful completion of this dual enrollment program will allow ACPS students high school credit and college credit and will be part of their high school GPA.
Students enrolled in the Bobcat Academy will still be able to participate in extracurricular activities at their home high schools.
For more information about FSU’s Bobcat Academy pilot program, email FSUAdmissions@frostburg.edu or call the Admissions Office at 301-687-4201.
FSU is committed to making all of its programs, services and activities accessible to persons with disabilities. To request accommodations through the ADA Compliance Office, call 301-687-3035 or use a Voice Relay Operator at 1-800-735-2258.
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