Articulation is defined as a process that contractually links two or more educational systems to facilitate a smooth transition or transfer from the secondary level (high school) of academic or career technical preparation to the two-year (community college) and or the four year (college or university) post secondary level eliminating delay, duplication and expense.

The articulation process specifically identifies and matches classes at the secondary and post secondary level that are equivalent in content, rigor and instructional methodology. Subject to conditions set forth by either the community colleges or universities, those secondary students that complete these identified classes at the high school level will receive college credit.

In essence, high school students are able to both receive college credit and potential advanced college placement for having completed articulated high school classes.