Five ways Accelerate ASU is changing futures with dual enrollment

Fountain Hills High School teamed up with Arizona State University to offer 54 courses for students to earn both high-school and university credit through Accelerate ASU. ASU’s dual enrollment program is having a real impact on high school students’ lives and changing futures. ASU’s Thrive Magazine recently covered two students who are forging their own paths with the help of Accelerate ASU, helping them gain confidence and college credit. 

1. Providing early access to college courses

Accelerate ASU partners with local high schools across the country to offer dual-enrollment classes that can lead to college credit. 

Students like Avery Evans and Shania Rivera at Fountain Hills High School will both be graduating high school with at least 16 college credits. Accelerate ASU has already created a low-risk, high-opportunity pathway to higher education for over 500 schools.

2. Students can balance extracurricular activities with academic rigor

For busy students balancing athletics, other extracurricular activities and jobs, Accelerate ASU offers the flexibility so that students can adjust their coursework to fit their unique schedule. Students can learn at their own pace while supported by in-person high school teachers and ASU faculty teaching the college-level courses.

3. Empowering students for life beyond high school

Students who may not have previously seen themselves as “college material” are excelling in university-level courses. They’re developing key skills—like time management and self-discipline—that prepare them to thrive in college and beyond.

4. Promoting career path exploration

From aspiring physical therapists to future sports medicine professionals, students are using their ASU coursework to explore career paths. Avery Evans chose to focus on a sports medicine course, as well as other math courses, to pursue his interest in sports medicine. Similarly, Shania Rivera enrolled in Anatomy and Physiology and Intro to Psychology to learn more about becoming a physical therapist. 

5. Offering ASU courses to middle school and high school students

ASU Prep works with the Sierra Vista Unified School District to expand ASU course offerings to students in grades 7-12. Currently they offer courses like engineering, physics, and macro- and microeconomics, with plans for expansion. 

Preparing high school students for college every step of the way

Learn more about Accelerate ASU and ASU Prep to see how ASU promotes learning for students of all ages.