Are dual enrollment classes worth it? Absolutely. The benefits of dual enrollment classes for high school students are huge! I took advantage of dual enrollment in high school and it not only gave me an academic advantage as I began college, but I was more confident and prepared for college on a personal level. Here are some of the many benefits of dual enrollment classes for high school students.
Benefits of Dual Enrollment Classes for High School Students
Increased success rates
If you are concerned at all about your child’s success in college, this is the top reason to encourage him/her to take a dual enrollment course. A 2017 study by the Community College Research Center found that “88 percent of community college dual enrollment students continued in college after high school and most earned a degree or transferred.”
My experience as a dual enrollment instructor confirms this research. Our students in dual enrollment classes are more successful as full-time students and persist to earn their degrees. Dual enrollment courses are a great transition because of the support students receive from both the college and the high school.
Earn credit twice for work completed once
That’s right. One of the top perks of dual enrollment courses is students complete one course and get credit at both their high school and a college (either community college or university, depending on the institution the high school has partnered with). Who doesn’t love a two-for-one deal?
Reduced cost per credit
Dual enrollment courses typically aren’t free, but they are a fraction of the price of taking the same course as a full-time college student. To find out the exact tuition expense per unit, it is best to contact the high school’s guidance office; however, you can usually plan to spend a few hundred dollars per course. There are scholarships, grants, and initiatives that can result in reduced or free tuition though, so also be on the lookout for those opportunities!
Increased student support
Special systems and supports are put in place for dual enrollment classes and students. You can expect to have a point person at the high school as well as a contact at the college (in addition to the professor) who can answer questions and is also working behind the scenes to collect data, improve programs, and, ultimately, ensure student success.
Experience meeting collegiate level expectations
I speak with a lot of parents who are concerned about their students rising to the rigor of college after having parental support and accountability during high school. And, I understand that concern! A great way to help students make that transition is to take advantage of dual enrollment courses!
As a parent, you can still be there to help your child through his/her first course. If your child struggles with time management, you can work alongside him/her to develop a study plan and provide accountability.
Major and career exploration
As a college instructor and career planning expert, one of my favorite benefits of dual enrollment courses is the opportunity for students to try a major or program. If your child is interested in a career in business, have him or her take an Introduction to Business course. Lower-level major-related coursework is frequently offered for dual enrollment. And, if it isn’t, start with another dual enrollment course (such as Math, English, or Art Appreciation) and consider taking an introductory level course during the summer session! Students no longer have to wait until their high school diploma is in hand to enroll in a few college courses.
Personal growth and increased self-awareness
Enrolling in a college success or student development course is an excellent way for students to develop and grow personally. They will learn about their preferred learning styles, the best ways to study, and the resources that are available to help them succeed academically once they are full-time students.
Early graduation potential
Finally, one of the biggest benefits of dual enrollment courses is the possibility of early graduation. For parents, that means fewer semesters of high tuition and housing expenses. Alternatively, a student could use that extra semester to study abroad, complete an extended internship, or build in a gap experience!
Dual Enrollment Classes Provide Big Growth in a Low-Stakes, Low-Cost Environment
The bottom line is dual enrollment courses are exceptional learning opportunities for students in a low-stakes, low-cost environment. If you are concerned about your child being successful at college in any capacity (academically, socially, or emotionally), dual enrollment opportunities are a great way to help your child transition successfully.
Are You Navigating College and Career Planning? I can help!
Hi. My name is Loren Kelly and I have spent 10 years instructing in higher education after beginning my career as a high school teacher. I am passionate about helping young people identify a fulfilling career path and plan the academic and vocational training needed to accomplish that goal. I offer free consultations to students and parents who are interested in talking about college and career planning. Now is the best time to start planning for the future!
