Dual Enrollment Courses for High School Students
Earn High School and College Credits at the Same Time
It's never too early to start thinking about life after high school. And whether you're heading to college or straight into a career, high school is the time to explore your interests and develop the skills to set up a successful future. That's why Stride K12-powered schools offer opportunities for eligible students to earn college credits through dual enrollment or dual credit options. Students can get a head start on their college education and potentially graduate from college early.
What's the difference between dual credit and dual enrollment?
Dual Credit:
Dual credit refers to a program where high school students take courses taught either on their high school campus or online by high school instructors who have been approved to teach college-level courses. These courses are typically offered in partnership with a college or university, and students receive both high school and college credit for completing them. Dual credit courses are often taken in addition to regular high school courses and may not have as strict eligibility requirements as dual enrollment.
Dual Enrollment:
Dual enrollment refers to a program where high school students enroll in college-level courses, typically offered on a college or university campus or online. These courses are taught by college instructors and students receive both high school and college credits for completing them. Dual enrollment courses are often taken as a substitute for high school courses, and students may have to meet specific eligibility requirements to enroll, such as minimum grade point average or placement test scores.
Why should you consider dual credit or dual enrollment?
Completing college-level coursework in high school can have several benefits for high schoolers. Students enrolled in these types of classes can:
- Earn College Credit: Get a head start on college and potentially graduate early.
- Improve College Readiness: Develop skills for success from early exposure to college coursework.
- Explore Interests: Gain a better understanding of topics to pursue in college or career.
- Enhance College Applications: Demonstrate academic ability and college readiness.
- Save Money: Reduce the time and money needed to complete a college degree.
How does a dual credit or dual enrollment program work?
Through partnerships with local colleges and universities, many K12-powered schools offer programs that enable students to stay enrolled in their high school and attend a college program at the same time. Students must meet any requirements specified by their school and partner institution to be eligible.
Qualified students may enroll in select dual credit classes at participating institutions while maintaining their high school status. Dual-enrolled students can then apply their earned credits to fulfill both high school graduation and postsecondary degree requirements, getting a jump-start on earning a degree while earning their diploma.
Families may also be able to reduce the financial burden of a postsecondary degree in states where dual enrollment is offered with reduced or waived tuition fees.*
How can I learn more about my dual enrollment or dual credit options?
Dual credit and dual enrollment opportunities vary by state, school, and partnerships with individual colleges and universities. Contact your school's administrative office to learn if your school offers these opportunities and for full details, including eligibility requirements.
*Dual credit and enrollment opportunities vary by school; please check with your school directly for information on tuition and availability.
Hear from Graduates of K12-Powered Schools
"I was taking classes at the University of New Orleans while taking my high school classes. So now I have 31 college credits."
–Madeline B., 2018 LAVCA Graduate**
"I already earned my associate's degree at the same time I’m graduating today."
–Tyler S., 2019 OHVA Graduate†
**Madeline is a 2018 graduate of a K12-powered school in Louisiana, and her statement reflects her experience at her school.
†Tyler is a 2019 graduate of a K12-powered school in Ohio, and his statement reflects his experience at his school.
*Dual-credit opportunities vary by school; please check with your school directly for information on tuition and availability.
