Gateway to College - MWCC

Gateway to College at MWCC affords motivated students who have disconnected from high school, or are in danger of disconnecting, a fresh chance to achieve academic success. Students who are homeschooled, have earned a GED or are not currently enrolled in school are also eligible to apply. Gateway to College allows Massachusetts residents between the ages of 16 and 22 to work simultaneously on the completion of a high school diploma from Ralph C. Mahar Regional High School while earning free college credits toward an Associate degree or certificate at Mount Wachusett Community College. The campus operates year-round, affording students the opportunity to earn credits during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

Gateway is an ‘all college’ model, where all classes take place on the Mount Wachusett Community College campuses. During the Foundation (first) semester, students complete coursework in core academic subjects at the Gardner Campus. In subsequent semesters, students are guided toward a pathway or college major based on courses needed for a Mahar diploma and MWCC Associate degree. Students have the opportunity to enroll in courses at other MWCC campuses, including the Leominster and Devens campuses. Gateway students have full access to MWCC support services, student activities, and free tutoring in addition to MCAS support.

Gateway to College is administered through the Access and Transition Division at MWCC and is funded by School Choice funds from the Ralph C. Mahar Regional School District. Additionally, Gateway at MWCC is a training and partner support site for community colleges selected to host a Gateway program through the Massachusetts High School Graduation Initiative.