Concurrent Enrollment

It’s a matter of time. Concurrent enrollment is when high school students take a class in a community college that gives double credit; credit toward high school requirements and credit in the community college. Often, concurrent enrollment in a community college is free of cost. The idea is that high school students get their first taste of college and will, hopefully, consider taking more college classes. Concurrent enrollment may take place in any college semester, which makes it a great summer option. Many universities also offer concurrent enrollment, check with their Admissions and Records department to learn about what is offered.

An additional bonus; college semesters equate to a high school year. As an example, a college chemistry class lasts one semester and fulfills one year of high school chemistry credit. College classes are commonly available in the evenings; most evening classes meet one night per week or two days per week. As such, Wednesday nights, for one semester, will take out one year of a high school course and grant you credit toward your college transcript.

The downside… college is college. You need to make it to class, do all homework, and be responsible for all turn-ins. Your grade will follow you to college so make it count. You’ll prove your ability to do college-level work. The upside… if your high school teacher isn’t great or if the homework load in your high school class is legendary, college will be doable. You’ll need transportation to get there, but you don’t need to fear your ability, as long as you go and put in a reasonable amount of time, you will be motivated by cutting class time in half and earning credit twice.

Limitations include age; this program is primarily for high school juniors and seniors. You’ll need to check applicability in subject areas such as Math and Physical Education that are often not allowed due to previous abuse of the system. The cool factor is this, compared to an AP class, there are half the class meetings, a fraction of the homework, no test at the end, and you get the credit.

Your high school may not promote concurrent enrollment, don’t let that discourage you. Find out what the college you’re interested allows and take that paperwork to the high school. Oftentimes, high schools are too overwhelmed to offer concurrent enrollment or may have issues with their AP teachers. Your high school will continue to receive the same funding for you as their student. Take the initiative; visit the college, get the paperwork, discuss possible class fit, and then take the information to your high school for approval. Your willingness to be the responsible party goes a long way in getting quick approvals. And attending both high school and college makes for a great change of pace and provides a window on what your college education will be about. Good stuff.