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Dual credit is defined as a college course that is taken for both high school and college credit. Many high schools are partnering with colleges to offer the dual credit option to their students. Depending on the partnership agreement, colleges may offer college courses on high school campuses or allow students to take their dual credit courses at the college. Another viable option is to take college courses online.
High schools that participate in the dual credit option allow students to take basic courses such as English, math, science, and humanities. Before beginning any dual enrollment program, however, students should know what they will be required to do in order to succeed.
What are the advantages of online dual credit courses?
Students who enroll in dual credit courses have the unique advantage of experiencing a college atmosphere before enrolling as a full-time college student. This allows them to “test drive” college before immersing themselves into a full-time college curriculum.
The biggest benefit, however, is that graduating seniors who complete dual enrollment courses will graduate with a head-start on college. Students who take full advantage of this option may begin college as second-semester freshmen or sophomores once they graduate from high school.
What are the disadvantages of taking dual credit courses?
Unfortunately, some students have unrealistic expectations of dual enrollment courses and are unprepared for the rigors of college. Students are strongly advised to take English, reading, and math placement tests to test their readiness for college courses.
Students should also be counseled about the difference in high school and college requirements. Some school programs will pay for courses that students complete with a grade of “C” or higher, so student success in the program is imperative for financial assistance.
Finally, students must realize that college courses—particularly online courses–require a lot of self-direction. If a student fails a dual enrollment course, it could possibly delay his or her graduation from high school.
How are dual enrollment courses different from regular high school courses?
Dual enrollment courses are college courses with the same requirements of all students, regardless of whether they are taking them as a high school student or college freshman. Average students are often taken aback by the academic rigors of college courses. For students who are ready for the challenge, however, dual enrollment courses provide a great opportunity for students who want to graduate from college a semester or two ahead of schedule.
Who qualifies as a dual enrollment student?
School districts promote dual enrollment differently. While some require student testing and allow only their most academically-gifted students to enroll, others offer this option to any student who wants to take advantage of it. If you are a high school student or a parent of a high school student, it’s advantageous to require college placement testing to get a realistic expectation of success before enrolling in any college course.
Dual enrollment courses are a great opportunity for high school students to get a head start on their college curriculum. As long as the student is academically ready, motivated, and understands the requirements to succeed, taking college courses as a high school student can be a positive and rewarding experience.
