The University of St. Thomas (UST) in Houston, Texas reported that the National Center for Education Statistics stated that there has been an increase in high school dual enrollment prior to graduation. 

The report stated that there has been a 7% increase in the dual enrollment of high school students in college courses prior to their own high school graduations. Dual enrollment has been a proven method of enriching the schooling experience while also finishing college for less money and on a faster timeline. 

“Nationally, dual-credit enrollments are on the rise,” Ryan Konkright, director of the University of St. Thomas Admissions Office, said. “In Texas, it is a very popular option for students. Many dual-credit programs are affiliated with community colleges, so it is remarkable and advantageous for students to consider the dual-credit options connected to four-year universities.”

The University of St. Thomas has a number of agreements with high schools, including Strake Jesuit, Kolbe Academy, Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart, St. Thomas High School. St. Catherine’s Montessori and St. John XXIII College Preparatory.

The dual-enrollment courses that are being offered by UST are hybrid, in-person and online, depending on the requirements and allowances of the individual schools, given the current pandemic situation. 

“What is so beneficial about UST dual credit is that students in our synchronous courses sit not just side by side with their high school peers who may be enrolled but are also woven into classes with UST students where collaboration and discussion are happening, enriching the experience for our dual-credit students,” Konkright said.

Students are able to transfer their credits to higher educational institutions after they earn the credits, which can result in a faster graduation time frame, less money spent on college tuition and a richer experience due to getting a head start on their college education while at a younger age.