Akron Early College High School

Akron Early College High School (AECHS), located in downtown Akron, Ohio, is a specialized educational partnership between Akron Public Schools and The University of Akron. Designed for students who are motivated to pursue higher education early, the school operates on a unique model that allows students to earn both their high school diploma and an associate degree—or up to 60 college credits—simultaneously, tuition-free. By immersing students in a university environment while they are still in their teens, the school aims to bridge the gap between secondary and post-secondary education.

The program is structured to provide a supportive transition into college-level coursework, emphasizing academic rigor, independent learning, and career readiness. Because the campus is integrated into the university setting, students benefit from access to college facilities, faculty, and diverse extracurricular opportunities. This model is particularly effective for students who thrive in non-traditional settings and wish to get a head start on their professional or academic futures while benefiting from the personalized guidance provided by the Akron Public Schools system.