Valparaiso University has recently brought back a unique program for local high school students.
Hoping to bridge the gap between high school and college, Valparaiso University’s dual enrollment program provides high school students with the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school.
“A lot of times high schools have dual credit courses that high schools can take,” said Carrie Palkovich, director of undergraduate admissions. “The difference is that they are taking the course in their school. With our dual enrollment program, high school students apply and come take courses at Valparaiso University.”
Working to make this an affordable option for local families, dual enrollment courses are available at just $100 per credit.
“We're excited to relaunch the College Experience Dual Enrollment Program after a pandemic hiatus because it provides a unique dual credit experience for area high schoolers,” said Bonnie Dahlke Goebbert, assistant dean for strategic initiatives.
In addition to experiencing college courses in person, dual enrollment courses are available during the day and evening hours.
“Some high school students might go to school half a day, and so they're able to come here and take courses in the morning or afternoon,” said Palkovich. “Of course we also offer a variety of night courses to meet both what students need and are interested in.”
Dual enrollment gives local high school students the opportunity to experience college and access to all Valparaiso University has to offer.
“Sometimes academically talented students exhaust the great honors and dual credit opportunities available in their high school,” said Dahlke Goebbert. “Valparaiso University's dual enrollment program gives these students a chance to experience being immersed in a college class on a college campus with other college students.”
By entering into college life prior to graduating high school, students are more likely to fully understand all that higher education has to offer.
“This program gives high school students positive exposure to college before they enroll full-time,” said Palkovich. “Taking class on a campus like Valpo allows students to come to a campus that is so friendly and very safe.”
Valparaiso University encourages current high school sophomore through senior with a 3.0 GPA or higher, on track for a CORE 40 diploma in good standing to apply.
Reopening the dual enrollment program this summer, courses will continue to be available throughout the remainder of the 2024-2025 school year.
“Students can apply to take classes each term,” said Palkovich. “These courses then appear on a college transcript that can be transferred or used here at Valparaiso University.”
Once a part of the program, Valparaiso University staff support the students throughout their time on campus.
“Academic advisors help students choose classes, work through course registration, and serve as a point of contact,” said Dahlke Goebbert. “After a student is admitted to the program, I continue to stay in touch throughout their dual credit enrollment in case questions arise that their professors can't answer.”
Program particulars can be found on Valparaiso University’s website, however, Dahlke Goebbert encourages students to research and apply early.
“If a student is interested in participating, it's helpful for them to apply well ahead of the deadline so they have plenty of time to work through the admission and course registration process,” said Dahlke Goebbert.
Once enrolled, dual enrollment high school students get to experience Valparaiso University outside of the classroom as well.
“Another great thing about this program is that each student is able to have some of the benefits of being a student here on campus,” said Palkovich. “Just like all of our students, they can attend our sports events, use our library, and have access to all the other academic resources and social resources.”
To learn more about Valparaiso University’s dual enrollment program, please visit valpo.edu.