In Minnesota, concurrent enrollment courses are college or university courses offered at the high school, usually taught by a qualified high school teacher. These are offered in partnership with a college or university. Students who successfully complete these college courses generate both high school and transcripted college credit from the partnering postsecondary institution. There is no cost to the student to participate in these courses.
Minnesota’s concurrent enrollment programs offer access to rigorous college courses in their high school buildings to over 30,000 Minnesota students. Research shows that high school students who participate in an accelerated learning option, such as concurrent enrollment, benefit greatly from:
- Exposure to high expectations.
- Participation in challenging courses.
- The momentum gained by earning college credits while still in high school.
By participating in concurrent enrollment, high school students complete college coursework that allows for greater flexibility when they enter the college or university setting full-time. Many concurrent enrollment alums find they are able to pursue second majors, participate in study abroad opportunities, and internships. Not only do concurrent enrollment students get a step ahead of other entering freshman in terms of credits, but they also gain college-level skills from concurrent enrollment courses. Our courses challenge high school students to think critically, write academically, and read analytically, preparing students for greater success in college.
Participating high schools also reap the benefits of concurrent enrollment. Partnerships developed between college and university faculty and high school teachers provide learning and training opportunities that may not otherwise exist. Additionally, concurrent enrollment students stay at the high school instead of leaving to attend classes at a university. Finally, through participation in concurrent enrollment, high schools establish themselves as education leaders by setting high standards, providing outstanding offerings, and preparing students for the 21st century.