Definition
The term concurrent enrollment refers to programs that provide high school students with the opportunity to take college-level courses. Concurrent enrollment programs typically allow high school students to take introductory, general education, and applied technology coursework.
Explanation
Also known as dual enrollment, there are a number of ways high schools and colleges work together to provide secondary school students with the opportunity to take postsecondary courses. For example, classes may be taught at the high school or a local college. Instructors may include faculty members of the college, or high school teachers that have obtained adjunct faculty status at a postsecondary educational institution.
Concurrent enrollment programs offer students the opportunity to be exposed to the challenges of a college curriculum while still enjoying their high school years. Dual enrollment is also a cost effective way to obtain college credits. Unlike Advanced Placement programs, which expose high school students to a college-level curriculum, a separate examination is not required to gain college credits.
Eligibility requirements to gain entry into a concurrent enrollment program will vary, but typically include a combination of age as well as grade point average (GPA). For example, a program may be limited to high school juniors and seniors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.