Some of you have taken dual credit classes or are thinking about taking dual credit classes. But are they worth it? I am currently putting myself through the rigor of a dual credit class, wondering to myself as I read my textbook, is this really going to benefit me for college?

Dual credit classes not only give you high school credit but also college credit for certain colleges and universities. Colleges like the University of Sioux Falls do not accept all dual credit courses, so it is important to check with your desired college before you spend hours each day working on your class. However, colleges like the University of South Dakota accept most dual credit classes, which can put you far ahead and help you complete some of the general classes you are required to take. Some general classes that you can take either online or in-person at LHS include online Psychology, AP Psychology, College Algebra and Speech.

There are many benefits to taking a dual credit course such as a smoother transition from high school to college, exposure to what a typical college class will look like, a lower cost and the possibility to finish college faster. 

Before you take a dual credit course, it is important to acknowledge what the course entails and its requirements. Dual credit courses are only offered to juniors and seniors who have a 3.5 GPA or higher, ranked in the upper one-third of their graduating class, or earn an ACT composite score of 24 or reflective of the 70th percentile for a junior. For a senior, it’s necessary to have a GPA of 3.25 or higher, rank in an upper one half of their graduating class, or earn an ACT composite score of 21 or reflective of the 50th percentile. After meeting the requirements for the steps above, it is expected to be able to spend hours each week on the class in order to complete all of the course work. The LHS counseling department has all of the information needed on how to register for dual credit classes and what additional requirements are needed.

In conclusion, dual credit courses offer the chance to take the fast track to college while also getting high school credit. Taking a dual credit course is an investment that takes commitment in order to succeed. While it is easy to not be enthusiastic about taking another class on top of other classes, it will save you time and money in the long run. Just remember to check with your desired colleges to make sure your hard work will be recognized.