The Ultimate Guide to Online Dual Enrollment Programs: Earn College Credits While Still in High School!

Online Dual Enrollment Programs: A Comprehensive Guide

Dual enrollment programs have become increasingly popular in recent years, as high school students seek opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school. These programs allow students to take college-level courses and earn credits that can be applied toward both their high school diploma and an eventual college degree.

While traditional dual enrollment programs require students to physically attend classes at a local college or university, online dual enrollment programs offer a more flexible option that allows students to complete coursework from anywhere with an internet connection. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of online dual enrollment programs, how they work, and what you should consider when choosing a program.

The Benefits of Online Dual Enrollment Programs

There are several key benefits to participating in an online dual enrollment program:

1. Flexibility – Online courses can be completed from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing students to fit coursework around other commitments like work or extracurricular activities.

2. Cost Savings – Dual enrollment programs generally cost less than traditional college courses, meaning that students can save money on tuition costs by earning credits before starting full-time college.

3. College Readiness – Dual enrollment courses provide valuable experience in navigating collegiate coursework and expectations for academic rigor.

4. Graduation Efficiency – By earning some of your required general education credits prior entering into higher education institutions will allow you faster progress towards graduation.

How Online Dual Enrollment Programs Work

Online dual enrollment programs typically work like this:

1. Students enroll in the program through their high school guidance office or directly through the partnering institution offering the course(s).

2. Once enrolled, students select which courses they would like to take from a list of options provided by the institution offering the course(s).

3. Course materials are delivered through an online learning management system (LMS), such as Blackboard or Canvas.

4. Students complete assignments and exams according to the syllabus throughout each semester/quarter just as they would in a traditional class.

5. Upon successful completion of the course(s), students receive college credit that can be applied toward their future degree program.

Things to Consider When Choosing an Online Dual Enrollment Program

When choosing an online dual enrollment program, there are several factors to consider:

1. Accreditation – Make sure the institution offering the courses is accredited by a reputable accrediting agency.

2. Course Availability – Check which courses are available and if they offer credits eligible for transfer into your desired degree programs at college or university level.

3. Course Delivery Format – Be sure to understand how coursework will be delivered, i.e., live webinars, pre-recorded videos, or downloadable content as it may affect time management for other commitments you have.

4. Cost & Financial Aid Options – Remember to look into tuition costs and financial aid options available through the partnering institutions before enrolling.

5. Academic Requirements – Some online dual enrollment programs require certain GPA’s or test scores prior allowing students admission into their program so make sure you meet those requirements before applying.

Best Online Dual Enrollment Programs

There are many online dual enrollment programs available across America today; here listed our top 5 picks:

1) Arizona State University’s Earned Admissions Pathway
2) Liberty University’s Early College Program
3) University of Missouri High School Dual Credit Program
4) Indiana University High School Dual Credit Program
5) Harvard Extension School Pre-College Program

Conclusion

Online dual enrollment programs provide high school students with a valuable opportunity to earn college credits early and gain experience in navigating collegiate coursework – all while saving money on tuition costs! By considering accreditation, course availability/cost/format and academic requirements when choosing an online dual enrollment program, high schoolers can take full advantage of this convenient way towards higher education goals without having sacrificing current obligations such as work or extracurricular activities.