Dual Enrollment Programs Have Positive Impacts on High School Students

Research shows that dual enrollment programs have positive effects on high school achievement and completion, as well as college access, enrollment and degree attainment, according to a new What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) intervention report.

The Institute of Education Sciences today (Feb. 28) released a report that summarizes research reviewed by the WWC on how dual enrollment programs impact outcomes for high school students. The intervention report is part of the Transition to College topic area in the WWC.

Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to take college courses and earn college credits while still attending high school. Such programs are designed to boost college access and degree attainment, especially for students typically underrepresented in higher education. Many dual enrollment programs also offer discounted or free tuition, reducing the financial burden of college.

Based on the research reviewed, the WWC found the programs to have positive effects on degree attainment, college access and enrollment, credit accumulation, completing high school, and general academic achievement in high school. Additionally, potentially positive effects were found on staying in high school, college readiness, and attendance for high school students. No discernible effects were found for general academic achievement in college.