Dual Credit Overview
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A dual credit class is taught by a high school teacher at the high school, in partnership with a college partner and gives high school students an opportunity to earn both high school and college credit. By choosing to take dual credit classes, high school students start earning college credit and get a jump start on their postsecondary goals.
Dual Credit Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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What dual credit classes are available at my high school?
Each PPS high school offers a variety of dual credit classes. Students enrolled in dual credit classes may elect to earn college credit for their efforts in this class. Check with your high school counselor to find out which classes at your high school offers dual credit.
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Will my dual credit classes transfer to another college or university?
Dual credit classes offered may meet a postsecondary program’s general education requirements and are transferable to many 2 and 4 year institutions. These dual credit classes include Lower Division Collegiate classes that may meet Associate and/or Bachelor's degree requirements. These classes are in subject areas such as Writing/Literature, Engineering, History, Math and Music. College credit may also be earned for Career & Technical Education (CTE) classes which may lead to a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree or certificate in programs in areas such as: Medical Professions, Multimedia, Computer Science, Automotive Service Technology, Computer Applications Systems, Welding, Building Construction Technology and more.
To learn how college credits earned from completing a dual credit class may meet specific degree or certificate requirements, students should contact the college or university that they wish to attend. Students must then request a copy of an official college transcript from each college for which Dual Credit has been earned and have these sent to their college or university of choice. -
When can students register with the college partner?
Students will register online through the college partner’s website during the registration window. Once enrolled in the college class, students must follow the college partner’s calendar drop and withdrawal dates, and understand that the college level privacy laws apply to them. Students who miss college deadlines may not be allowed to register for college classes, or may earn a failing grade on their college transcript if they fail to withdraw from classes in time. A college grade may be different from the high school class grade.
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How much does it cost?
Most dual credit classes offered at the high school charge little to no cost to students, but costs will vary depending on the college partner. PPS partners include, but are not limited to, Portland Community College, Portland State University, Oregon Tech, Clackamas Community College and Mt Hood Community College.
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Who can I contact if I have questions?
You may contact the teacher if you have questions about the specific class content. Please note, as a college student, the college application of The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) applies to the student. Due to this, parents/guardians will not have access to student specific information regarding college classes such as enrollment, grading and student success information from the college.
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What are my next steps?
Students and parents/guardians should talk about the significance of enrolling in a college level class. This is both an opportunity and a consideration. The number of college credits students accumulate in high school may later impact the student’s financial aid assistance depending on what they choose to study after high school. For more information talk with your school counselor.