Dual enrollment program rarely utilized

Troy University has had a dual enrollment program for about 15 years, but few students are taking advantage of it.

Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to take college courses for both high school and college credit. Most of the courses offered are in core academics, such as English or math. The programs are growing in popularity because they allow students to save money by knocking out some of their required coursework while they’re still living at home. The programs can also shave a semester off the time students must spend in college, allowing them to graduate early.

Troy’s dual enrollment program only has about 38 students. Sharon Jackson, a Troy admissions specialist, said competition from community colleges with dual enrollment programs are probably a factor in why Troy’s dual enrollment program is small. Jackson also said that the program also has not been publicized.

At Troy’s Dothan campus, only one student has participated in the program in the almost three years that it’s been active. Inga Oberst, a university spokeswoman, explained the lack of participation by saying most of Troy’s classes are offered early in the morning or late in the evening, and that high school students usually want to take courses during normal school hours.

Oberst said that the dual enrollment program at the Dothan campus may increase its numbers as more online courses are offered. Online courses are more flexible than regular classes and allow students to view lectures and do coursework at their convenience.

Oberst also said that the university’s recruiter will try to promote the school’s dual enrollment program more in the future.

Students hoping to enroll in the dual enrollment program must have a score of 20 or better on the ACT or a score of 950 or better on the SAT and a 3.0 GPA.