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Early College Overview

Where High School Meets College

Cabarrus Tech Early College is an innovative STEM-focused high school within Cabarrus County Schools, located on the CBTC Campus of Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. Here, students don't have to choose between high school and college—they experience both at the same time.

Beginning in 9th grade, you'll earn college credits while completing your high school diploma, putting you on a path to graduate with an associate degree at no cost to your family.

Whether your future includes a four-year university, entering the workforce, or exploring a technical career, Cabarrus Tech provides the opportunities, support, and experiences to help you get there.

Our small-school environment challenges students academically while surrounding them with caring teachers, meaningful relationships, and opportunities to grow as leaders both inside and outside the classroom.

 

 

6 men outside activitySTEM Is for Every Future

STEM is much more than science labs, coding, or building robots. It's about learning how to think, solve problems, and make an impact.

At Cabarrus Tech, STEM teaches students to:

  • Explore how math and science explain the world around us.
  • Create using technology to communicate, innovate, and solve problems.
  • Think Like an Engineer by designing solutions to real-world challenges.

From healthcare and education to business, law, agriculture, and the arts, every career depends on the skills STEM develops. No matter where your path leads, you'll graduate prepared for what's next.

 

 

 

 

The Benefits

When you become a Cobra, you receive far more than a high school education.
  • 🎓 Earn a FREE Associate Degree
  • 📚 Personalized college and career pathways
  • 💡 Innovative, hands-on learning experiences
  • 👥 Small classes with individualized support
  • ❤️ Caring teachers who know every student
  • 🌎 College campus experience beginning in 9th grade
  • 🏆 Clubs, leadership opportunities, athletics, and school traditions
  • 🚀 Graduate ready for college, careers, and life

 

Two Degrees. One Incredible Opportunity.

 

Imagine graduating from high school with both a diploma and an associate degree.

At Cabarrus Tech, that's exactly what students do.

 

Freshman & Sophomore Year

Students begin taking college courses while completing their high school classes.

Junior & Senior Years

Students transition primarily to college classes, earning credits toward their associate degree while completing high school graduation requirements.

Throughout the journey, our teachers and college partners provide the support students need to succeed in both environments.

Our classrooms emphasize collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and problem solving because we believe students should read, write, speak, and think deeply every day.

Myths vs. Facts

  • Fact: STEM isn't about becoming an engineer or programmer. It's about learning to think critically, solve problems, and use technology effectively—skills every career requires.

  • Fact: While first-generation college students receive admissions preference, we welcome students from all educational backgrounds.

  • Fact: We enroll students with a wide range of strengths and abilities. Motivation, curiosity, and a willingness to challenge yourself matter just as much as grades.

  • Fact: Not at all. Students can choose transfer pathways that prepare them for a bachelor's degree or career and technical pathways that prepare them to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.

  • Fact: Our students stay busy! From leadership organizations and service clubs to robotics, esports, performing arts, athletics, and academic competitions, there are countless ways to get involved and find your place.