Dual Credit

Preparation for Dual Credit

College-level courses are different from high school classes and require increased independence and responsibility. Dual Credit students need to consider the following:

• College provides students with significant independence.
• Students are responsible for monitoring progress and assignment completion.
• Students are responsible for keeping up with coursework and deadlines.
• A large amount of independent learning is required.
• Strong self-motivation, discipline, and time-management skills are essential.
• Students should consult with their high school counselor about the acquisition of textbooks.  FAST procedures may need to be utilized.
• A general guideline: for every one hour spent in class, students should plan to spend two hours outside of class reading, studying, and completing assignments.
• Dual Credit students are held to the same academic standards and expectations as all college students.
• Students will collaborate with their high school counselor and parent/legal guardian regarding enrollment and registration. 

Parents play an important but evolving role. College is a time to transition from being the primary advocate to becoming a supporter. Parents will need to allow students to take ownership of their education and understand that their academic success depends on their responsibility and initiative.

Protecting Student Privacy

Colleges must comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA):

• Colleges cannot release a student’s academic information to anyone—including parents—without the student’s written consent.
• FERPA protections apply once a student turns 18 or enrolls in a postsecondary institution, including Dual Credit programs.
• If a student is under 18, parents retain FERPA rights at the high school level and may review records that the college sends to the high school.

Understanding these guidelines helps ensure a smooth and successful Dual Credit experience while protecting student privacy.

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