The Basics
Traditionally, enrolling in dual credit courses offers high school students the opportunity to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. Through Achieve Virtual Education Academy, students can not only earn high school credits online, but they can also receive dual college credit through a partnership with Vincennes University.
Courses available through Achieve currently include College Algebra, English Composition, Introduction to Literature, Beginning Spanish and Introduction to Computer Concepts. They are created by Vincennes University staff members and hold up to the rigorous standards of the university. We strive to make sure the course offerings we have are on the Core Transfer Library for colleges, making it easier to transfer the earned college credit to a school of your choosing.
The Details
Following the same model of what other Achieve courses offer, full-time students and those residing in Wayne Township have access to no charge fees when enrolling in dual credit courses.
Taking classes through Vincennes University will involve students having access to their online student learning system, Blackboard, but may also require students to purchase textbooks for each course as well.
As is with some high school and most college-level courses, these dual credit courses will require prerequisites. These are classes that must be completed prior to signing up for the next class, like stepping stones. Students will need to work with the counselor to be sure they meet the prerequisites for each course as determined by Vincennes University.
Some courses will ask to see scores from the SAT or ACCUPLACER, the standardized test for Vincennes, in order to be accepted into the class. The ACCUPLACER test can be scheduled through our office and through Vincennes testing locations around the state. We can assist in determining the testing location closest to you during scheduling and answer any additional questions.
To assure you or your student are prepared to begin taking dual credit courses, talk to your current high school’s academic counselor to see if you’re ready.
The Benefits
With similar benefits to those of Advanced Placement courses, taking dual credit courses can set you apart from your peers, prepare you for higher education and set you on a better track for your future.
Enrolling in online dual credit courses while in high school can help you:
- Get ahead – Dual credits allow students to get a jump start on their college curriculum by taking courses that will translate additional credits to almost any university they choose to attend.
- Save money – Taking these advanced courses gives students the opportunity to knock out required classes before entering the college tuition price range.
- Prepare – Being exposed to these courses can help students gain knowledge of how college classes differ from high school courses and enables them to have an easier transition into the higher education experience.
- Improve – Involvement in the dual credit track offers students the opportunity to challenge themselves and allows them access to college material more quickly. It may even lessen the number of classes needed in their college career.
There are many reasons to consider earning dual credits as a high school student. If you or your student are interested in learning more or have any questions about dual credit courses, contact Achieve Virtual today!
