Dual Enrollment

About the Program

Overview

The general Dual enrollment program of Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) offers high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to earn college credits while still completing their secondary education. This initiative aims to provide students with a head start on higher education, align high school and college curricula, and enhance college readiness. The program is designed to help students gain advanced academic experiences and better prepare for post-secondary education and career paths.

Background

The College Readiness and Completion Act of 2013, Senate Bill 740 establishes a number of requirements designed at increasing college readiness and degree completion in the State. The bill includes a number of specific higher education initiatives from across the nation that streamline into this legislative act. The Bill’s targeted initiatives include dual enrollment.

Program Structure

In PGCPS,  the dual enrollment program is structured to integrate high school coursework with college-level instruction. Students can enroll in college courses at local partner institutions, such as Prince George's Community College and the University of Maryland Global Campus. These courses can be taken on campus, online, or in some cases, through special high school classes taught by college instructors. PGCPS pays 100% tuition costs for all students dually enrolled in qualified courses at any qualified Maryland public college or university.  

Currently, PGCPS has formal agreements, Memorandum of Understandings, with Prince George's Community College. As a benefit of this agreement, students are able to receive dual credit (credit that appears on both a student’s college and high school transcript). Additionally, the college shares student grades directly with PGCPS. If students are participating in Dual Enrollment at an institution where PGCPS does not have a formal agreement, grades must be submitted to the student’s high school to be added to their high school transcript. 

Key Components

1. Course Offerings: Dual enrollment students have access to a range of college courses across various disciplines, including general education requirements and specialized subjects. This flexibility allows students to explore interests and advance in areas related to their intended career paths.
2. Eligibility and Enrollment: Students typically need to meet specific academic criteria to participate in dual enrollment. This includes maintaining a minimum 2.5 weighted GPA, achieving qualifying scores on placement tests, and obtaining recommendations from school counselors. Enrollment processes are designed to ensure that students are well-prepared for the rigors of college coursework.
3. Support Services: PGCPS provides support through academic advising, counseling, and coordination with college partners to help students navigate the dual enrollment experience. This support is crucial in ensuring students succeed in balancing high school and college responsibilities.
4. Credit Transfer: Credits earned through dual enrollment are intended to be transferable to most colleges and universities, although students are encouraged to verify transferability with their future institutions. This ensures that the credits contribute to their college degree programs and do not require repetition of coursework.
5. Program Benefits: Dual enrollment offers numerous benefits, including:
• Accelerated Learning: Students can complete college credits ahead of time, potentially reducing the time and cost required to earn a college degree.
• Enhanced College Readiness: Exposure to college-level coursework helps students develop essential academic skills and better prepare for higher education.
• Cost Savings: Many dual enrollment programs are offered at reduced rates or at no cost, providing financial advantages for students and families.

Impact

The dual enrollment program in PGCPS has significantly impacted student achievement and college readiness. By providing early exposure to college-level coursework, the program helps students build confidence, improve their academic skills, and clarify their career goals. Additionally, it supports the district’s mission to prepare students for success in post-secondary education and beyond.

PGCPS currently has formal agreements, Memorandum of Understandings, with Prince George's Community College. As a benefit of the agreement, students are able to receive dual credit (credit that appears on both a student’s college and high school transcript). Additionally, the college shares student grades directly with PGCPS. If students are participating in Dual Enrollment at an institution where PGCPS does not have a formal agreement, grades must be submitted to the student’s high school to be added to their high school transcript. 

Announcement * New Partnership with University of Maryland College Park!

PGCPS has entered into a pilot partnership with UMD College Park to provide virtual college Algebra and Calculus courses for PGCPS seniors, class of '25, with at least a 3.5 GPA and at least a grade of B in PreCalculus at no charge for students.  The program has a maximum of 60 seats for students interested in participating.  The first 60 students who qualify for the course and who do not have access to Calculus at their high school will be given priority.  The courses will meet virtually in the summer from 9-11 and in the fall Monday-Friday from 9:00 -10:00 a.m. Students must have the time reserved on their schedule to participate in the class at school.  (The application for this opportunity is currently closed)