FAQ'S

What is Middle College?

Middle College is an independent study, dual enrollment program coordinated between the Santa Barbara Unified School District and Santa Barbara City College. It has been designed to help bridge the gap between high school and college. Middle College teachers provide support and direction to students attending classes on the SBCC campus.

What classes/courses can I take?

MC students can take any of the SBCC courses for which they qualify. Before enrolling, students and their parents/guardians meet with a Middle College teacher or counselor and evaluate the student’s high school transcript, SBCC assessment scores and academic goals to choose the courses that will best meet each individual student’s needs and interests.

How can I get more information about Middle College?

Prior to enrolling, students and their parent(s)/guardian(s) must attend an information meeting that gives specific details and answers any questions. Dates and times of those meetings can be obtained from: 

Who can join Middle College?

11^th or 12^th grade students from any SBUSD High School may enroll in Alta Vista Alternative High School’s Middle College. Juniors may take up to 10 college units and seniors may take 11.9 college units, in addition to the weekly high school assignment they complete independently.  (10^th graders may be considered if openings are available.)

How does Middle College independent study work?

Students are assigned to weekly, one-on-one meetings with a Middle College teacher.  At that meeting, students will review the work they completed over the previous week and receive a new assignment for the upcoming week. Assignments typically focus on current events from news magazines or internet sources with emphasis on critical thinking, creative problem solving, and effective written and oral communication. Additionally, students will read a Book in Common and do a project each semester.

If I enroll in Middle College, what diploma will I earn? 

If a Middle College student finishes with Alta Vista Middle College, they will receive an Alta Vista Alternative High School diploma.  Alta Vista holds graduation ceremonies at the Courthouse Sunken Gardens.

Can I attend a 4-year University if I attend Middle College?

Yes. Many Middle College students have been accepted directly into four year colleges and universities. Middle College typically enrolls upperclassmen that have completed their math and science requirements.  If there is A-G coursework that needs to be completed, those courses can be taken through the college as long as they are UC approved/transferable. Students who want to go directly to a university from high school are strongly encouraged to take English 110/120.