Central Virginia Community College Launches Early College Education Cohort with Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA — Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) announced the launch of a new Early College Education Cohort designed for high school juniors interested in pursuing a career in education. This innovative program offers a flexible and streamlined path to a four-year degree and future employment in the field.

 Through collaboration with Liberty University (LU), students in the cohort will complete an Associate of Science in General Studies with an advising track in education while still in high school. This pathway allows students to enter LU as juniors and stay on track to complete their bachelor’s degree in just two additional years, provided they follow the designated course map.

 The program follows a cohort-based model where students progress through classes together as a group. Cohort models promote a sense of support, accountability, and community, factors that are often linked to higher rates of student success and program completion.

 "This program is more than just a head start, it's a guided pathway to both higher education and meaningful employment,” said Dr. Mark Tinsley, associate vice president of arts and sciences.  “It’s designed to keep doors open for students while offering a clear track to success.”

 After graduating from CVCC and while completing their coursework at Liberty University, students may have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience as paraprofessionals, working in local schools as they pursue their degree. CVCC indicates that this real-world exposure enhances classroom learning while also providing industry connections and insight, giving students a head start to their future careers.

Central Virginia Community College states that the program provides valuable flexibility. While the pathway is designed for aspiring educators, students retain the option to change direction at any time and pursue a different major or career path. The General Studies degree ensures both transferability and adaptability, supporting students wherever their academic and professional goals may lead.

 Applications will officially open around December 15, 2025, with the inaugural cohort set to begin in Fall 2026. Student selection will take place in Spring 2026, laying the groundwork for a strong and successful first cohort. For more information, visit centralvirginia.edu/early-college or contact Janet Ashley at ashleyj@centralvirginia.edu or (434) 832-7208.