College Access
Akron Public Schools students can earn college credit while in high school. APS offers multiple options for students.
Advanced Placement Program
Advanced Placement (AP)
AP courses are nationally recognized college-level courses taught at the high school. The AP course content is based on a specific curriculum set by the College Board. Akron Public Schools’ teachers have received training through the College Board specific to the coursework and testing used in their AP classes.
Why should you take an AP course and exam?
- Your AP courses challenge you to reach your maximum learning potential.
- Your AP courses potentially aid your admissions process in college by demonstrating ability to handle rigorous work, especially for selective schools.
- All state colleges and universities in Ohio have committed to guaranteeing credit or placement for students who receive a grade of 3 or higher on an AP exam.
- Taking AP courses can potentially save you money on college classes.
How do you sign up for an AP Course?
Contact your high school counselor.
For more information, visit:
The College Board AP Website
Akron Early College
Located on the college campus, Akron Early College High School (AECHS) is a joint venture between Akron Public Schools and The University of Akron. AECHS is designed for first-generation college students. AECHS utilizes small learning communities, peer mentors and tutors to teach and empower students to learn the skills and confidence to complete challenging coursework. Upon successful completion of a high school diploma, students who have 60+ earned college credit hours will earn an Associate of Arts degree or an Associate of Science degree.
College Credit Plus
College Credit Plus (CCP) is Ohio’s dual enrollment program that provides students in grades 7-12 the opportunity to earn college and high school credits at the same time by permitting students to enroll in courses at Ohio colleges or universities.
CCP enhances students' career readiness and post-secondary success by providing a wide variety of options at no or limited cost to students and families.
Why should you participate in CCP?
- You are allowed to take classes from a local college or university.
- You can take these classes at your high school, online or on the college campus. You must meet admission and enrollment requirements to participate in CCP.
- Your CCP credits are on your high school transcript, which means you are building a high school and college transcript at the same time.
Learn More + CCP Resources
How can you sign up for College Credit Plus (CCP)?
Contact your high school counselor.
For more information, visit:
The CCP Website
College Credit Plus Checklist
ABCs of College Credit Plus
Log in to Career Cruising for Scholarship Information
Ohio Department of Education website
For more information, email Charmayne Polen at cpolen@apslearns.org.
Learn more from a previous information session:
College Credit Plus Recorded Presentation
College Credit Plus Presentation Slides
Career Technical Assessment Guide (CTAG) Credit
CTAG Credit allows you to earn college credit through selected career technical education classes and by meeting the State requirements for verification of completion. If your class has CTAG approval and you pass the class with the required grade and assessment score, you get credit for that course in college. Just enroll in the college/university with the approved courses, pass one class after enrolling and the credit is yours.
What is Career Technical Education?
Career Technical Education (CTE) provides students with the academic and technical skills, knowledge, and training necessary to succeed in future careers and lifelong learning. CTE provides students the opportunity to explore career potential through hands-on training with today’s most innovative equipment and technology integrated into paramount/premier academic instruction.
At Akron Public Schools, CTE courses are aligned to each pathway. Students learn and apply real-world work knowledge and skills. Some courses allow students to get a jump start on college by earning college credit or an industry-recognized credential for FREE while in high school.
To learn more about CTAG Credit, contact your high school counselor.
For more information, visit the website:
CTE Website
International Baccalaureate
International Baccalaureate (IB) is a worldwide educational program founded to give students the opportunity to undertake one of the most challenging educational programs available in a globalized world. IB incorporates quality practice from national and international research and the IB community. As one of APS’ high school academic programs, IB aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who are motivated to succeed.
Akron Public Schools is proud to house their IB Programme at Firestone CLC.
Why should you participate in IB?
- You are encouraged to think independently and drive your own learning.
- You take part in programs of education that can lead you to some of the highest ranking universities around the world.
- You become more culturally aware, through the development of a second language.
How can you sign up for International Baccalaureate (IB)?
Contact your high school counselor.
For more information, visit:
The IB Website
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