It’s never too late to plan ahead. Dual enrollment is a school and college-mixed program designed for high school students to get a feel for college. It also gives them the chance to get a head start on college so they can earn their degrees necessary for their futures in a quicker manner.
Unknown to some, dual enrollment isn’t limited to Valencia College. Dual enrollment programs also exist through University of Central Florida (UCF) and University of Florida (UF). Valencia College’s dual enrollment program requires a 3.0 unweighted GPA and a passing grade on the PERT test, while UCF and UF require 3.8 unweighted GPA or higher, as well as a 1200 SAT score. Of course, UF dual enrollment is taken online because of how far away it is from University High School. If you’re willing to accept the challenge or desiring for a strong start, UCF or UF dual enrollment are just for you!
Dual enrollment is technically taken during junior and senior years. This is because many students are able to get ahead of their graduation requirements or are desiring an easier year spent somewhere possibly ahead of their time. However, dual enrollment isn’t simply an easy alternative to avoid high school. Students must be responsible in both keeping up with information about University High School and keeping up with requirements needed to stay in dual enrollment.
What do the students think of dual enrollment? “I love it, it gives us students a chance to get extra credit. AP classes and tests involve many risks, while dual enrollment gives you college credits when classes are completed,” responded Mark Boutwell, a junior attending dual enrollment. “I would recommend dual enrollment for anyone interested in taking it.”
“Of course I’d recommend it,” said Ms. Byfield, a teacher in correlation with dual enrollment. “Also make sure to see your guidance counselor about it if you need more information,”
Written by: Stefan Veenhuis