About Us

Hamilton County's Middle College High School (MCHS) is a collaboration between Chattanooga State and Hamilton County Schools.

This high school, which opened the Fall Semester of 2001, is located on the campus of Chattanooga State. MCHS has a diverse body of students who have the resources and challenges of a college. They access to specialized support-mentoring, tutoring, counseling, peer encouragement, and abundant access to state-of-the-art learning technology. The Hamilton County Board of Education provides a program coordinator, counselor/English instructor, while Chattanooga State offers college instruction, counseling, professional tutoring, mentoring services, classrooms, labs, technology, office and clerical support.

Students will earn high school and college credit-simultaneously. The Middle College is, therefore, a school of opportunity for all students who possess academic potential but are dissatisfied with the traditional high school setting - and serves as a launch pad to further and greater achievement.

  • Qualified sophomores, juniors, or seniors are eligible to apply.
  • Students who demonstrate the maturity to cope with the freedom of a college campus.
  • Students who wish to explore in greater depth classes in information systems, engineering, fine arts and other course offerings at Chattanooga State.
  • Students who can score a 19 or better on the ACT. (The Residual ACT is given at Chattanooga State each Thursday at 12:00 noon. Permission slips must be obtained from the Middle College office.)
  • MCHS personnel will interview parents and potential students.
  • Current high school principal, counselor, and/or teachers must recommend applicants.
  • Those who are accepted will be notified by letter.

Through the College's Student Affairs Division, each student has access to academic advising and career exploration through special interest seminars. High school students also meet with career planning and counseling staff to explore occupational and educational goals, in addition to easing the transition into college study.

Another highlight of this specialized high school/college program is an innovative technology component incorporated into many classes that the students will take. Class management, subject exploration, threaded discussion, homework and more facilitated through the latest in information technology.

History

The Middle College concept was created initially in 1974 with the collaboration of the New York City Public School and LaGuardia Community College. A team of representatives from Hamilton County Schools selected the first MCHS group of students in the summer of 2001 from 16 Hamilton County public high schools. Presently, MCHS students reflect the diversity of race, gender, socioeconomic levels, and exceptional education found through out Hamilton County and North Georgia from public, home, and private schools.

Advantages of Chattanooga State's uniquely designed Middle College High School Students:

  • Get a head start on college and graduate from high school
  • Some may receive an Associates Degree along with their high school diploma
  • Use of advanced computer labs
  • Create a class schedule that meets their need and interest
  • Explore a variety of careers and opportunities
  • Take advantage of college support services including mentoring by a college students, counseling service, learning tutoring clubs and recreation
  • Enjoy the benefits of small class size and inter generational learning