New Hampshire Career Academies Makes Free College Education a Reality

On September 13, Governor Chris Sununu formalized the establishment of the New Hampshire Career Academy Program, making free college education a reality for Granite State students.

The program includes a partnership with the Community College System of New Hampshire allowing qualified students to complete a fifth year of high school, enabling them to simultaneously pursue both their high school diploma and their associates degree.

The program comes at no additional cost to neither the student nor the taxpayers of New Hampshire by utilizing existing state-designated student adequacy payments and financial support from industry partners.

“This initiative is an exciting and huge step for our state,” said Governor Chris Sununu. “Through the Career Academy Program, New Hampshire students will now be able to get their high school diploma and an associates degree at no additional cost to the student or taxpayer, and a guaranteed job interview – a win-win for everyone.”

“The Department of Education’s new Career Academy adds yet another path for New Hampshire students at New Hampshire’s community colleges,” said Ross Gittell, CCSNH Chancellor. “The Career Academy augments existing opportunities with Running Start and Early College currently operating with strong results in NH high schools. We appreciate Governor Sununu’s support for college access programs, as this program comes on the heels of the Governor’s STEM scholarship initiative which allows high school students to take STEM courses free at NH community colleges.”

The program also guarantees participating students an interview with select New Hampshire companies.

“I’m excited that we’re creating a new pathway to a great education. This is all about helping kids. They will have the chance to get a career-ready education, and a head start in the job market,” said Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut.