Frequently Asked Questions
What are the completion requirements for ECA? Your high school diploma comes from the district where you're enrolled. 2010 graduates and beyond will graduate under ECA Program Completion Requirements which meet or exceed the 2010 Michigan graduation requirements and their ECA district requirements.
When I complete ECA, will I receive a high school diploma? Yes and much more. You receive a high school diploma from your ECA district, Certificate of Completion from ECA and an official transcript from EMU.
How long can a student stay in ECA? The ECA is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a four plus one program. Students are generally allowed to stay for four years. Students can remain in ECA a year beyond high school or more to complete the ECA program requirements as needed.
Who teaches ECA classes? ECA instructors are drawn from the participating ECA districts and are qualified in mathematics, science, social studies or English. All EMU courses are taught by EMU faculty.
Does ECA have discipline and attendance policies? You and your parents receive the policies as part of the enrollment/intake interview process.
What calendar does ECA follow? ECA's calendar is closely aligned with EMU's academic calendars.
Am I required to take the Michigan Merit Exam (MME)? You're required to take the MME from ECA. ECA will offer the MME on campus for students during the state testing period.
Can I participate in traditional sports and drama in my resident school district? Yes, however you will be responsible to arrange your schedule and provide for your transportation.
Can I play college sports? No. Students can potentially participate in intramural and club sports.
What isn't provided for me? Transportation, parking and meals. Parking and food are available on campus at your expense. You and your parents are encouraged to consider private transportation, car-pooling or public transportation.
Can special education students enroll in ECA? Yes! Special
education services are provided to students through ECA and in
conjunction with EMU's Office of Students with Disabilities.
How will I know if the program is the proper fit and what happens if it isn’t? It's up to you and your parents to decide if the program is right for you. Students who consistently make poor personal choices and/or require strong external controls to moderate their behavior are, in general, not successful in programs of this type. You're required to learn and consistently demonstrate strong life management, emotional, social and academic skills prior to transitioning to and enrolling in college-level coursework.
After a reasonable period of time, if you and your parents decide ECA is not the right fit for you, you can "opt out" of the program. ECA will work with the student, their family and their resident district to facilitate this process.
It should be noted, you're restricted from enrolling into any post-secondary course at EMU until every one of your ECA instructors, including your CORE advisor, credentials you. At ECA we like to say, "You cannot choose to be selectively excellent."