FSU to Partner with GCPS to Offer Dual Enrollment Pilot Program

May 10, 2023 8:00 AM

Bobcat Academy Allows High Schoolers to Get a Jump Start on College

Frostburg State University is excited to announce that beginning in the Fall of 2023, they will partner with Garrett County Public Schools to offer the Bobcat Academy - a dual enrollment pilot program to give motivated high school 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: May 16 at 9:00 a.m. at Northern High School; and May 30 at 1 p.m. at Southern High School.  FSU will host a virtual Open House event on May 31 from 6:30-7:30 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 Frostburg State University. “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 GCPS 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 both GCPS 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. The Bobcat Academy will also offer both English and math courses during the first semester of the program to provide students with opportunities to stay on track for graduation.

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 GCPS students high school credit, college credit and will be part of their high school GPA.

FSU is committed to the connection of the students’ home high schools and will therefore not penalize students enrolled in the Bobcat Academy for missing class for participation in documented 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.