Why consider (or not) Dual Enrollment?
Why should my child consider Dual Enrollment?
- Dual enrollment gives students an idea of what full-time college coursework will be like. By trying out college classes while still in high school, your child can get used to the academic environment and expectations before he or she leaves the comforts and support of home.
- Your child may be able to take classes that aren’t offered at his or her high school.
- College courses are a great way to explore a specific area of interest.
- Your child can begin accumulating college credits.
- Dual enrollment saves you money!
- Now with One-Two-Free, all dual enrollment students get their first two courses, up to six credits tuition free!
- Even after the student uses the free six credits, dual enrollment students pay half (50%) of regular tuition.
Example: A 3 credit College Writing class taken after a student graduates high school costs $474.06 (with mandatory fees that are required of students). The same 3 credit College Writing class taken as dual enrollment while a student is in high school costs just $163.80 (no mandatory fees are required). That’s a savings of $310.26!
- The research shows positive benefits for students who participate in dual enrollment:
- Dual Enrollment students are more likely to pursue college full time after high school.
- Dual Enrollment students earn higher grade point averages (GPAs) in their first year of college.
- Dual Enrollment students are more likely to stay in college from first to second year.
Dual Enrollment Sounds Great! Are there any reasons my child shouldn’t participate?
- Dual Enrollment courses are real college courses for real college credit; the grades go on your student’s permanent academic record. Before enrolling, your student needs to understand the demanding work that a college class requires and be prepared to take the commitment seriously.
- If your child is considering Dual Enrollment for the purpose of earning college credits, be sure of the value of the credits. All campuses within the Montana University System use common course numbering. That means that the 3 credit College Algebra (M121) course on our campus is the same 3 credit course at Montana State University Bozeman or University of Montana Missoula. However, out-of-state colleges may not award the same credit value. Credit policies depend on the schools and students need to investigate prior to enrolling.
- If a Dual Enrollment course interferes with your child’s regular high school coursework, extracurricular activities, or work schedule, it may not be a good idea. Also, college and high school calendars are generally different. Holiday and break schedules at high school can cause conflicts with required classes or exams for the college course.
- Carefully consider the academic value of any class your child is considering. Exploring different areas of interest are helpful for dual enrollment but it’s best to get the most bang for your buck by choosing classes that will count towards general/core requirements.