High School Dual /College Enrollment ( Joint Enrollment Program )
What is the Dual Enrollment – Joint Enrollment program? This program was implemented to challenge those students who are college bound and to allow them to get a head start on college credits while completing required high school credits at the same time. Rhea County has had students walk across the stage in May and graduate high school with several college credits earned toward their degree program.Specific research and investigation is very important, students need to have a good idea what college and what major they want study. Then make sure these credits will transfer to their intended college or university program.
Why would a student want to earn college credit in high school? Those students that are specifically entering a profession that requires a bachelor degree prior to entering a major study area such as legal, medical or other specialty area can have a head start in their program plan. College costs seem to increase at an annual rate between 6-9%. The dual enrollment program could additionally help off set the cost of food, dormitory and travel expenses. It is very important to research your intended college and make sure that these credits will transfer and be accepted toward future goals.
How does a student qualify for this program? Students will meet the required entrance standards set forth by the college. This is an application process that is totally separate from the county high school system thus the term joint, or dual, enrollment. Our students generally start the program at the end of their sophomore year in high school. Rising juniors and seniors must earn a minimum composite score of 19 on the National ACT exam and have a current grade point average of 3.0. This would be the same ACT score required for any student entering Chattanooga State Community College after high school graduation. Chattanooga State offers a residual ACT exam that is given on the main campus. Students will have to complete the required application process and one time fee of $15.00 plus the exam fee. The residual ACT score is only good for Chattanooga State entry requirements and is not mailed to any other colleges. This could be a good, safe first time ACT exam that will give students the ACT experience and challenge. Entering students must also have and maintain a minimum 3.0 grade point average, have the student and parental agreement as well as the high school principal’s permission prior to program entrance. Contact Ms. Carol Swayze, Dual Enrollment Chattanooga State 423-697-2464.
What classes can a student sign up for? Can these credits transfer to other colleges? Research the college(s) you want to attend and check to be sure the joint enrollment credits will transfer. Currently offered courses include: World History - 3+3, U.S.History - 3+3, Computer Literacy -3, Psychology -3, Physical Education – 4, Algebra – 3, Pre-Cal – 4, Calculus I & II- 4 + 4, and seniors only College English - 6 + 6. Total of 49 college credit hours. 30 - 32 credits is equal to one college year. Joint enrollment students will be eligible for any other Chattanooga State Classes offered on the Chattanooga State Dayton and/or Main Campus. ( semester 1 + semester 2 college credit hours.)
OLB 10/04