Dual credit classes are a great way to get a head start on college. Research shows that students who participate in dual enrollment courses graduate from high school at a higher rate and are less likely to require first-semester remediation in college. However, the classes can be challenging. Also, it’s crucial to understand how these courses will be weighted or scored for your college application.
What is a Dual Credit Course?
Students can obtain college credits while still in high school by taking online dual credit classes. Unlike Advanced Placement (AP) classes, which require students to pass an exam to receive college credit, dual enrollment courses are typically taught by high school teachers and are part of the student’s high school academic record. Dual enrollment requirements vary by state and sometimes change from college to college. However, on average, students earning college credit while in high school are twice as likely to complete a post-secondary degree. College courses during high school can also help students get a jump start on their education and save money by reducing tuition costs. This is especially true for students from low-income families and first-generation and underrepresented minority students who tend to perform better in these courses.
What are the Advantages of Taking a Dual Credit Course?
Dual credit can give high school students a taste of college but also help them save money. Students who take enough dual credit classes to graduate from college a semester or two early can significantly reduce the cost of tuition, room, and board and save on student loan costs. In addition, dual enrollment can make the transition to college a less stressful experience. It can expose students to more diverse career possibilities and help them refine their majors. It can also increase the chances of a high school graduate going on to college, which helps communities by increasing tax revenues and decreasing the burden on social services.
However, it’s important to note that dual enrollment doesn’t guarantee college admission.
How Can I Find a Good Dual Credit Course?
Students can benefit greatly from taking college classes while still in high school, but picking the appropriate ones is critical. The best dual credit classes will have clear course objectives and a complete syllabus, with learning activities mapped to the objectives. They should also include formative assessments and opportunities for students to analyze various big-picture themes through papers and discussions.
Another important factor to consider is the transferability of the credits earned through dual credit. Ensure the college or university offering the course has regional accreditation since this will increase the likelihood that colleges and universities outside your home state will recognize the institution. Finally, speak with your high school counselor and academic adviser before registering for college courses. This will help you choose the right courses to meet your needs and academic goals. Also, be sure to research the admissions policies of the colleges you are considering to see if they will recognize your dual credit coursework as part of your application.
How Can I Find a Good College Course?
Students can take dual enrollment courses at their high school, a local college, or online. The credit can count toward high school graduation and a college degree if the student passes the course and earns a C or higher.
Several studies have shown that dual enrollment students do better in college, having higher GPAs and being twice as likely to graduate from a four-year institution than those who entered college without such credits. However, doubts about rigor have been raised, with critics suggesting that high school teachers must hold students to the same standards as in college classes.
Because college coursework is much more demanding than high school, many students need help with the transition. To help reduce the likelihood of this, it is crucial to speak with your adviser before enrolling in a dual credit course and choose a class that will meet a requirement but won’t extend how long it takes to complete a college degree.
