Academics

Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences (GECMS) is a small, early college high school located on the Gaston College campus in Dallas, NC. Students attending GECMS should have an interest in healthcare, life or laboratory sciences, social work, or another related field. GECMS offers three associate degrees, and incoming ninth graders select the program that best aligns with their career goals and interests. Students begin taking college classes in the 9th grade and have the opportunity to earn an associate degree or college diploma upon high school graduation. College credits completed while enrolled in the school are tuition-free and are transferable to four-year universities.

Pre-Nursing/Health Sciences: This program is recommended for students interested in direct patient care such as nursing, radiology, emergency services, surgical technology, etc. Students selecting this program work toward completing the Associate in General Education (AGE) -Nursing degree, a general education degree that includes specific lab science courses–anatomy & physiology, chemistry, and genetics–that are required for students enrolling in nursing or other related clinical fields. Upon completion of this degree, students may enroll in the Gaston College registered nursing program, pursue other health science programs/credentials, or transfer to a four-year university. Students enrolled in this program are also given the opportunity to earn their Nurse Aide 1 certification, a requirement for the Gaston College nursing program.

Pre-Medical/Biotechnology: This program is designed for students interested in becoming scientists, biomedical engineers, researchers, medical doctors, physician’s assistants, veterinarians, etc. Students enrolled in this program work toward completing the Associate in Science–Pre-Medical, a rigorous degree with emphasis on college math and the lab sciences–biology, chemistry, and physics. Upon completion of this degree, students may transfer to a four-year university, well-prepared to pursue an advanced medical or science degrees.

Social Work/Human Services: This program prepares students for entry-level positions in institutions and agencies which provide social, community, and educational services. Students enrolled in this program work toward completing either the Human Services Technology Diploma or the Associate of Applied Science in Human Services Technology. This program does NOT meet the criteria of a university transfer. The majority of courses required to complete this degree are program-specific and will not be accepted at most state universities/colleges unless a similar program is offered at the bachelor degree level.

Selection Process
GECMS is a school of choice. Students interested in attending must be enrolled in the 8th grade and submit an application during the School Choice window each year. The GECMS Selection Committee will conduct a holistic review of each applicant, evaluating them for their academic potential and developmental readiness to enroll next school year. Students meeting the eligibility requirements will enter the lottery. Priority will be given to students who will be the first in their families to attend college. Students must successfully complete 8th grade to be approved for enrollment and transfer to GECMS.