Dual enrollment: the case for bridging high school and college

In today’s rapidly-changing world, young people need to acquire skills early to keep pace with the pace of technology. Data shows that earlier exposure to college coursework enhances students’ academic skills and confidence, and paves the way for smoother transitions to higher education.

Yet today just one in three high school students participate in dual enrollment programs.

High school serves not only as a gateway to higher education but also as a critical period for shaping students’ aspirations and goals. The emphasis on college readiness has become a central tenet of secondary education, influencing curriculum design and academic counseling practices across the nation. This shift reflects a broader recognition of the increasingly complex skills demanded by today’s job market, where a college degree is often considered a minimum requirement for entry into many professions.

Bridging the gap

Access to college courses in high school saves students both time and money. According to the Community College Research Center, 88% of dual/concurrent enrollment students continue on to college, achieving higher completion rates and faster degree attainment. 

If our aim is to re-engage students in traditional classrooms and prevent negative outcomes for the youth of our nation, we need to reconsider the pipeline between high school and college. Dual enrollment programs and programs providing exposure to the professional world through career-focused learning are the place to start. 

The economic benefits of a college degree are undeniable. Higher levels of educational attainment are associated with increased earning potential and greater economic stability over a lifetime. By facilitating access to college-level courses during high school, educational institutions can level the playing field for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, providing them with the tools and opportunities needed to achieve upward mobility.

Integrating college into high school education also strengthens society at large by supporting workforce development and economic competitiveness. By equipping students with advanced skills and knowledge early on, communities can cultivate a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of a globalized economy. 

Current models for incorporating college in high schools

Concurrent enrollment and Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) enable high school students to enroll in college courses while fulfilling high school requirements, exposing them to the academic rigor of higher education. Some programs offer students the opportunity to complete a full two-year program or take individual college courses alongside their high school studies. 

This flexibility caters to varying academic interests and career goals. Early exposure to college-level coursework equips students with advanced skills in fields such as manufacturing and technology, preparing them for the demands of modern industries. Programs like these are emerging in states like Massachusetts and Illinois, as well as cities like Washington D.C. and Philadelphia. These initiatives not only increase the likelihood of students starting and completing college degrees but also aim to benefit low-income students and students of color. 

At ASU, we launched the Accelerate Pathways program to offer college education in high school settings. Partnering with high schools around the country, ASU provides specialized courses and support services that align with both high school graduation requirements and college degree pathways.

Early exposure to higher education creates opportunities across the lifespan 

Integrating college into high school education marks a pivotal shift toward preparing students for success in a competitive global economy. As educational institutions and policymakers continue to innovate and refine these models, high school education is poised to become more inclusive and responsive to students’ diverse needs and aspirations. 

Leveraging the transformative power of early college experiences allows the next generation to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. The journey towards integrating college into high school education is not just about expanding access to higher education — but also about fostering a culture of lifelong learning and academic excellence that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. 

Scott Weatherford is a dedicated educational leader committed to transforming and democratizing access to higher education. As the Executive Director of Universal Pathways at ASU Learning Enterprise, Scott leads initiatives like Accelerate ASU and Earned Admission, empowering learners with world-class college courses. Scott’s extensive experience includes founding a professional development institute at Da Vinci Schools and serving as Principal at Camino Nuevo High School, where he excelled in developing high-achieving urban schools. An experienced college instructor and instructional coach, Scott has also contributed to the training of future educators and has presented at numerous conferences on topics such as Project-Based Learning and Mastery-Based Grading. Holding a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from UCLA, Scott is passionate about creating positive educational outcomes for students of all backgrounds.