One of the most common questions is "Can I earn an Associates Degree before finishing high school?" It is not the right path for all students but can be a great opportunity for some! Before setting this as a goal, it's important to consider all the information. Whether it is possible or not depends on when you start dual enrollment, which college you dual enroll with, and what your other academic goals are. This is a goal that should be discussed with your school counselor to ensure that you will meet your high school graduation requirements.
These are some of the things to consider when deciding if the goal of earning an Associates Degree during high school is best for you:
Will the credits transfer? If you plan to attend a private or out of state college you need to do some research into their credit transfer policies.
What program are you aiming for after high school? Even if the credits transfer, if it's a specialized field, dual enrollment may not reduce the number of classes you have to take after high school.
Are you planning to apply to highly selective colleges where showing the highest academic rigor on your high school transcript is important? Many highly selective colleges consider AP and AICE courses to be of higher rigor.
What high school courses do you want to take? Are you aiming for any CTE certifications or working on the AICE diploma? Are there prerequisites you need to apply to a particular college program? Dual enrollment can combine well with other high school programs, but you may not have room in your schedule for the 60 college credits of an associates degree
AA vs AS Degree Pathway...What is the Difference?
Whether or not you complete a 2 year degree during high school, it is helpful to choose a path to guide your course selection
AA (Associate in Arts) - This is for students working to complete general education college credits. This is generally the choice for students aiming to complete a bachelor's degree after high school. The full AA degree is 60 college credits.
AS (Associate in Science) - These degree programs have general education requirements, with a stronger career focus. This path is more commonly for students who plan to enter the workforce afterwards, although some AS degrees can be a good precursor to a Bachelors degree. A full AS degree is 60 college credits.
The dual enrollment application instructions for each college will include links to these requirements to help you with course selection. If you have particular colleges/programs in mind for after high school, you can be even more targeted and choose courses that will count towards that degree.
Here is a Sample Pathway to an AA degree:
9th grade, semester 2: 1 course (3 credits) with 5 FVHS. Typically SLS1101 or SLS1122 replacing an FVHS elective
10th grade, semester 1: 2 courses (6 credits) with 4 FVHS
10th grade, semester 2: 2 courses (6 credits) with 4 FVHS
11th grade, semester 1: 3 courses (9 credits) with 3 FVHS
11th grade, semester 2: 3 courses (9 credits) with 3 FVHS
12th grade, semester 1 Early Admission: 5 courses (15 credits) with 0 FVHS
12th grade, semester 2 Early Admission: 5 courses (15 credits) with 0 FVHS
*may be more credits if a class is 4+ credits (for example a science with lab is typically 4 credits)
*students starting later may still be able to complete the 60 credits. Additional credits may come from AP or AICE courses/exams and summer classes may be possible.