Pros and Cons of Dual Enrollment in High School

 Having graduated one high school student, and getting ready to graduate a second, our family has had some experience with dual enrollment in the past couple of years.  The term Dual Enrollment refers to when a high school student takes a college level course for both high school and college credit.  This is most easily (and inexpensively) accomplished through a local community college.  However, there are a variety of colleges and universities that offer Dual Enrollment to both homeschoolers and public schoolers.  The challenge is to be aware of whether your student is ready for DE and to find the right program for your family.   And with everything, there are pros and cons.

Pros:

*Your student can take one class and earn credit for both high school and college.

*Your child is responsible to someone else for their work.

*Your student earns a grade from someone other than you, which can add some legitimacy to their transcript.

*Your child can explore interests that might not be as easily accomplished in homeschool... culinary classes, vocational classes, speech and debate, etc.

Cons:

*Maturity is key.  Students must be ready to take responsiblity of for their learning and these grades will be on their transcripts.

*Not all colleges accept DE credits... at least not for both.  Your child may be put in a position where they must choose another college, or choose to put the classes on either their high school or college transcript.

*If attending an in-person class, your student must display a level of maturity that matches the class.  They may also be exposed to material and ideas that you're not prepared for them to face.

While DE shouldn't be feared, these are all issues to consider before jumping into college classes.  Take your time, research your colleges and professors, and know what track your child is on.  If college is in their future, DE COULD be a great option.

Has your child ever taken DE classes?

What was your experience?