Murray State College’s Accelerated College Experience (ACE) program completed its first year with 21 high school students.

Students from Ardmore, Dickson, Fox, Plainview, Sulphur, Tishomingo and Wilson participated in the program.

“Murray State partners with high schools to break down barriers to college so that students can earn both a high school diploma and be college or career-ready, or obtain a transferrable credential/degree,” said Ginger Cothran, Murray State College Ardmore Vice President. “We’ve designed the program to provide high school students the opportunities to choose their higher education path with little to no cost.”

Murray State’s ACE Program is one of its Early College Programs. It simultaneously allows students to graduate with a high school diploma and an associate's degree from Murray State College.

Within the program, the College and public high schools provide students with support systems such as career counseling, grade alerts, mandatory academic coaching/advising sessions and required study/tutoring sessions to help ensure their success throughout the program.

Murray State College’s Concurrent Coordinator Jeanea Mitchell fosters strong connections between ACE students, facilitators, parents and administration. She also ensures that resources are easily accessible to the students to minimize barriers.

“This program is truly an impressive opportunity for high school students,” she said. “Along their educational journey, there are many challenges, successes and achievements worth celebrating. We have an exceptional team ready to provide immediate assistance and support for the students to help them succeed in the program.”

Students apply to the program their freshman year and begin classes the following year as a sophomore. Sophomores can take three college courses; juniors take eight courses; seniors take nine.

“Our early college programs open doors to academic achievement, allow students to earn college credits, explore potential career paths and build critical skills earlier,” said Dr. Tim Faltyn, Murray State College President. “We are grateful for the partnerships and dedicated faculty and staff who make these programs possible. The collaborations ensure that all students have access to higher education opportunities.  

Ardmore, Sulphur and Wilson added more students this fall semester, totaling 28 participating students for the 2024-2025 school year.

For more information, contact Jeanea Mitchell at jrmitchell@mscok.edu or visit mscok.edu/admissions/concurrent-enrollment