Start College Now is a program that allows eligible high school juniors and seniors to take courses during the school year either on Western’s campus, online, or through distance learning.  You can even earn dual credit from your high school and Western for these courses. Your Western Admissions Coach can assist in determining appropriate courses. 

Students must be enrolled in a public high school, have completed 10th grade with good academic standing, meet course prerequisites, have written approval from a parent or guardian, and have an acceptable disciplinary record.

The school district is responsible for tuition, course fees, and books for approved Start College Now courses that are not comparable to courses offered at the high school.

Important Application Deadlines

Application must be submitted to the high school by the following dates.

• March 1 for fall term
• October 1 for spring term

Start College Now FAQs

For additional information, contact Caitlin Locy at locyc@westerntc.edu or 608-789-6022.

Release of Student Information

You have certain rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) concerning your school records. All other student information (excluding directory information) will be treated as confidential information and is subject to disclosure requirements.  This means that student information (excluding directory information) may not be released to anyone without your written consent.

To release your student records to your parents, guardians, or anyone else, please complete the Release of Student Information Form.

Western is offering a variety of in-person academies to high school students for the 2025-26 school year. Information on the academies and their locations is listed below. You can also view this information in our brochure.

Fill out our online application to apply!

Western is offering the following academies for high school students:

• Advanced Manufacturing Academy - Launch your future in advanced manufacturing! Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology in mechatronics, industrial electricity, and control systems–all while earning 8 college credits. Build the skills today for the high-demand careers of tomorrow. 
  View Advanced Manufacturing Academy brochure.
   
• Agri-Business Science Technology Academy - Get a head start on a career in modern agriculture. By earning 10 college credits toward an associate degree, students explore cutting-edge technologies, develop essential professional skills, and  build a strong foundation in agricultural science. This unique program accelerates their transition from high school to the workforce or further education in Agri-Business Science Technology. 
  View Agri-Business Science Technology Academy brochure.
   
• Automotive Academy - This course covers the foundational basics: The automotive shop and environmental safety practices, parts and technology, and related welding instruction.
   
• College Transfer Academy - High school seniors! You can earn up to 28 college credits during your last year of high school, impressively providing you with your first year of college during your senior year of high school! 
  View College Transfer Academy brochure.
   
• Educating Tomorrow's Teachers Academy - Earn 12 credits toward a career in education through a combination of Western-led courses and field experiences through your local district. The academy also offers Friday workshops and fall and spring summits to help students understand and solidify their path to a fulfilling career! 
  View Educating Tomorrow's Teachers Academy brochure.
   
• Firefighter/EMR Academy - Get started on a career in public safety or as a volunteer with your local department. The Fire EMR Academy provides 7 credits in Fire Protection and EMT pathways. 
  View Firefighter/EMR Academy brochure.
   
• Health Science & Pre-Nursing Academy - With courses in anatomy, psychology, and clinical nursing skills, this academy prepares students for success in healthcare careers. It is ideal for focused, goal-oriented students eager to begin their journey in the medical field. Whether you’re interested in nursing, radiology, respiratory therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other healthcare fields, this academy offers the foundation you need to launch your medical career. 
  View Health Science & Pre-Nursing Academy brochures: Mauston | Melrose-Mindoro/Black River Falls.
   
• Information Technology Academy - Earn college credits toward a variety of in-demand IT careers, including networking, cybersecurity, and web development. Students will gain hands-on experience through courses like Networking Fundamentals, Cybersecurity, and Web Programming. This academy is ideal for motivated students who want to explore and accelerate their path toward an IT career. 
  View Information Technology Academy brochure.

The academies are held at the following locations:

• Mauston Regional Learning Center 
  
  • College Transfer  
  • Health Science and Pre-Nursing  (Spring) 
  • Educating Tomorrow's Teachers
• Tomah Regional Learning Center 
  
  • Agri-Business Science Technology  (Fall) 
  • Information Technology (Fall)
  • Educating Tomorrow's Teachers
  • Fire/EMT (Tomah Fire Dept)
• Viroqua Regional Learning Center 
  
  • Educating Tomorrow's Teachers
  • Automotive Academy (Sleepy Hollow) 
• Black River Falls Regional Learning Center 
  
  • College Transfer 
  • Educating Tomorrow's Teachers
  • Automotive Academy (Gross) 
• Independence Regional Learning Center 
  
  • Educating Tomorrow's Teachers
  • Agri-Business Science Technology (Spring) 
• La Crosse Campus 
  
  • Educating Tomorrow's Teachers
  • Advanced Manufacturing (Spring)