What is the bell schedule at TCC?

Who is the typical target student for this program? 

The program is designed for any student interested in obtaining an Associates Degree from MTC as well as those wishing to further their studies upon graduation at a four-year college or university. Credits earned are highly transferable to institutions within South Carolina and other states. Some of the others states that our previous graduates have gone to 4-year schools with transferable credits include California, North Carolina and Virginia.

Is this program exclusively for first-generation college students? 

The program is open to anyone who applies, not just first-generation college students. Our students are highly motivated by the chance to earn a full associate degree with extensive academic support and without accumulating debt. 

What is the difference between The College Center (TCC) and the Lexington Technology Center (LTC), and can students be enrolled in both programs? 

While both are Lexington District One programs, they serve different academic and career paths:

• The College Center (TCC): Focuses on dual enrollment courses through Midlands Technical College with the goal of earning an Associate Degree while still in high school.

• Lexington Technology Center (LTC): Focuses on vocational training and professional certifications (e.g., automotive, cosmetology, culinary arts, welding, etc.).

Due to the rigorous credit requirements for the Associate Degree path, TCC students do not have room in their schedules to accommodate additional vocational classes at LTC.

Why do students choose this program over taking AP or dual enrollment college classes at their "zoned" high school?

Students are able to earn a significantly higher number of college credits through TCC than is typically possible at their zoned high schools. This path is often chosen by families looking to accelerate a student's higher education progress toward advanced degrees. The associate degree earned typically fulfills the first two years of college for many bachelor's degree programs, offering a more extensive credit opportunity than high school AP or dual enrollment classes. 

How are GPA and class rank determined, and how does TCC affect college applications?

GPA and class rank remain connected to the student's zoned high school. Students apply to four-year institutions as freshmen, not transfer students. The institution then reviews their transcripts and awards college credit for their Midlands Technical College (MTC) coursework.  In regard to how GPA is calculated, page 6 of the South Carolina Uniform Grading Policy provides a Grade Point Conversion Chart for the 10 Point Grading Scale.

If a student transfers back to their zoned high school, or to another S.C. public high school, are their credits fully transferable?

Yes. All credits at TCC are approved by the S.C. State Department of Education. In the case of students who have transferred back to their zoned schools, they have often found themselves ahead of schedule and, in some cases, have chosen to graduate high school a year early.

What is the student completion rate in the program? 

Approximately 90% of students persist and successfully complete both their high school diploma and Associates degree at TCC.

Can I take extra online or summer classes to get ahead?

We love ambitious students! However, we often say, "Don't accelerate the acceleration." Because you will already be on a rigorous, accelerated track, further acceleration is usually unnecessary.

Our program uses a cohort-based model, meaning students move through required courses together. Taking core classes independently can create scheduling gaps in future semesters where no alternative classes are available—effectively negating your head start.

The Exception: You may choose to take non-program electives (classes not required of the TCC program) at Midlands Technical College during the summer after your sophomore or junior year. This is a great way to explore new interests or coursework toward a future 4-year degree without disrupting your current graduation path.

Do students get to choose their elective dual enrollment courses taken through MTC?

For the most part, the elective courses will be chosen for the students based on the availability of instructors that MTC provides and their degree requirements. Whereas there may be a choice as a junior such as taking Chemistry, seniors have more choices. As a senior, students will be transported to Midlands Technical College - Airport Campus and can choose two electives each semester that they qualify for as long as it is offered during that time period. During the second semester, seniors have the option of taking those electives on campus or online.

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