Positive effects of accelerated college credit programs on student outcomes

 

A new study found positive effects of accelerated college credit programs on student outcomes in Rhode Island. REL Northeast & Islands researchers examined participation in three types of accelerated college credit programs—dual enrollment, concurrent enrollment, and AP testing—in Rhode Island high schools to understand their effect on the rate of high school completion and postsecondary outcomes, using data from the 2013/14 statewide 9th grade cohort. The study found: Nearly half of all students participated in at least one accelerated college credit program, with more participating in AP testing and concurrent enrollment programs than in dual enrollment. Racial/ethnic minority, male, and economically disadvantaged students were underrepresented in accelerated college credit programs. Participation in an accelerated college credit program has a large, positive, statistically significant effect on the probability of graduating from high school, enrolling in college within a year of graduating, and avoiding enrollment in developmental education courses during the first year at a Rhode Island public college. Economically disadvantaged students and their non-disadvantaged peers experienced similar positive effects from participating in the programs. Policymakers across the country can use the study findings to make informed decisions about supporting student access to the accelerated college credit programs offered in their states.