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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MIDDLE COLLEGE
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What is FSD's Middle College Program?
Through our partnership with Fullerton College, Fullerton School District offers 7th and 8th grade students the opportunity to take college courses at no cost with other FSD students. Through this program, students can earn college credits earlier to help jump start their educational journey.
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What courses do you offer?
The courses change each semester and are guided by student interest and availability. To see what courses we are offering, please see our website.
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How much does the Middle College Program cost?
It’s FREE! Thanks to the wonderful partnership agreement that we have with Fullerton College and FSD, Middle College is free to all 7th and 8th grade FSD students who have been accepted.
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If I don't have the best grades, can I still apply?
Absolutely! You don’t need to be a top student to apply for these courses. Our classes are designed around student interests, making the content more engaging and accessible. If you're willing to take on the challenge, Middle College is here to support you every step of the way!
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Do I receive Jr. High or High School credits through Middle College?
No, at this time all courses taken are only for college credit.
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What are units/credits?
The number of credits assigned to a college class typically reflects the amount of time and work expected from students each week. Here’s a breakdown of why some classes are 3 credits while others are only 1:
📚 The Credit Hour System (U.S.)
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1 credit hour = about 1 hour of classroom instruction + 2 hours of homework per week over a 15-week semester.
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So a 3-credit course generally means:
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3 hours in class per week (e.g., M/W/F for 1 hour or T/Th for 1.5 hours)
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6+ hours of out-of-class work per week
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🧠 Why Some Classes Are 3 Credits:
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These are usually core academic courses or major requirements (e.g., English, History, Biology).
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They involve lectures, exams, reading, writing, and significant homework.
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The amount of instruction and workload justifies the 3 credits.
🧪 Why Some Classes Are Only 1 Credit:
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These are typically:
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Labs that accompany a lecture (e.g., a Biology lecture is 3 credits + a 1-credit lab)
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Electives like PE, music ensembles, workshops, or seminars
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Supplemental instruction, like tutoring, internships, or orientation courses
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They require less time (maybe 1 hour/week) and less outside work.
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Where are these courses offered?
These courses are offered online and/or on a Fullerton School District campus. The classes will consist of FSD students only.
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How do I sign up?
To sign up for this program, you must follow the steps that are laid out on the Middle College Website.