Dual Enrollment

What is Dual Enrollment?

Dual enrollment is an opportunity that allows high school students to enroll in courses that allow students to earn college credit and work on industry credentials while still being enrolled in high school. As a dual-enrolled student, you are enrolled in both high school and Patrick & Henry Community College (P&HCC).

Courses offered through dual enrollment are official P&HCC courses and therefore require the normal demands of college-level coursework. Successful students have discipline and are willing to dedicate more time than a typical high school course demands. In compliance with State Legislative rules, dual enrollment is offered to high school juniors and seniors.

What are the Benefits?

Studies show that students who earn college credits while still enrolled in high school outperform their peers and are more likely to complete a post-secondary credential. Dual enrollment students can experience college-level coursework while still having learning support provided by both their high school and P&HCC. Most importantly, it can lower the cost of post-secondary education by completing credits through the community college while still in high school.

Dual Enrollment Student Admissions & Registration

Dual enrollment is offered to high school juniors and seniors enrolled in a participating area high school. To enroll in these courses, you must demonstrate competence in reading, writing, and math.

In August of each year, dual enrollment students are invited to visit the main campus to complete registration. Open enrollment dates are announced on social media.

Students who are unable to participate in registration on campus will complete that process at their respective high schools. At your high school, representatives from P&HCC will visit each class to assist students in the registration process. If you are enrolled in a course that meets on P&HCC’s campus, representatives will visit your class on the first day to get you registered.

Students who meet eligibility requirements should follow the steps below to enroll in the Dual Enrollment program.

DE Student Resources

What if My High School Doesn't Offer What I Want to Take?

High school students may take college courses that are not offered through dual enrollment through Concurrent Enrollment, either online or on the main campus. Concurrent Enrollment students will be responsible for paying full tuition costs.

Parent Access to Student Information/FERPA

Parents should be aware that federal law prohibits P&HCC from providing information about student grades and other data. The law is called FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), and details about FERPA can be found here. Unless a student gives written approval for a parent to access personal information, the college may not discuss grades and other issues with any family member.