By Christopher Todd
Over the past three academic years, UConn Early College Experience has demonstrated intentional and strategic growth in its course offerings, grounded in a commitment to meet the evolving needs of students and to respond directly to the requests of partner high schools for more diverse and robust academic options. In 2023–2024, UConn ECE offered a solid foundation of interdisciplinary courses, including Anthropology, American Sign Language, Digital Media & Design, English, and Philosophy. These offerings reinforced UConn’s dedication to preparing students as informed, engaged citizens ready for academic and professional success.
In 2024–2025, the program expanded into more specialized fields such as Computer Science (CSE 1010), Mathematics (MATH 1070Q), Nutrition (NUSC 1165), and advanced Chinese (CHIN 3210 & CHIN 3211). This expansion directly addressed high school partners’ desire
for coursework that aligns with student interests and future workforce needs. At the same time, UConn ECE prioritized accessibility by enhancing support for teacher certification, allowing more high schools to offer these rigorous college courses by empowering educators to become certified instructors through clearer and more flexible qualification pathways.
The 2025–2026 academic year brings new, high-impact offerings that continue to elevate the ECE program’s relevance and reach. Notably, PHAR 1002: Fundamentals of Pharmacology and PHRX 3057: Discovering the Leader Within introduces students to the world of pharmacy and health care leadership. Additionally, ME 3295: Industrial Design for SolidWorks or AutoCAD and UNIV 1820: First Year
Seminar – Intro to Making are designed with flexibility in mind, making it possible for schools to integrate these courses directly within existing Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. This approach allows schools to leverage their current resources, labs, and instructor expertise to offer high-quality, college coursework that seamlessly fits into established CTE pathways.
UConn ECE’s continued growth reflects a strong commitment to equity, innovation, and responsiveness. By aligning offerings with partner
school feedback, expanding instructor access, and designing courses that integrate with existing high school programs, UConn is ensuring that more students across Connecticut can access meaningful, future-focused academic opportunities—setting them on a path toward college and career readiness.