Eastern Kentucky University’s Dual Credit Program is more attractive than ever, thanks to the University’s participation in the Commonwealth’s new Dual Credit Scholarship Program.
EKU’s popular program allows juniors and seniors in area high schools to enjoy an “authentic University experience” as they earn both high school and college credits for University-level courses. Now, participants from Kentucky public high schools may qualify for additional scholarships. In fact, qualifying students could take up to two courses each semester at no charge, other than textbook costs. For those who don’t qualify for EKU Dual Credit scholarships, or would like to enroll in more classes than covered by the new state scholarships, the cost per credit hour has dropped from $65 to $52.
In the past legislative session, the Kentucky General Assembly allocated $15 million for dual credit scholarships for the 2016-18 biennium through a program to be administered by the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA). This fall, the scholarships will be awarded to high school students through their local school districts, with seniors and then juniors receiving top priority. Eligible dual credit courses in the state program include general education courses and career and technical education courses in a state-approved pathway leading to an industry-recognized credential.
“This new scholarship opportunity, when combined with EKU’s dual credit scholarships, will potentially enable more students to take up to four free classes per year,” said Christine Bogie, administrator of EKU’s Dual Credit Program.
Studies have shown that students who participate in dual credit programs are better prepared for college-level work, tend to enroll full-time in college after high school graduation, complete their college work more quickly and successfully, and are able to save thousands of dollars in tuition.
Bogie noted that the freshman-to-sophomore retention rate for EKU students who first participated in the Dual Credit Program is 90 percent, well above the state and national averages for all students, according to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Graduation rates also run well above the norm.
The courses are offered on EKU campuses in Richmond, Danville, Corbin and Manchester, as well as online and, in some cases, at local high schools. All classes are taught by EKU faculty.
The application deadline has been extended to accommodate students who now qualify for the state scholarships. Interested students should apply by July 15. For more information, including program qualification and scholarship criteria, visit dualcredit.eku.edu or contact the EKU Dual Credit office at dualcredit@eku.edu or 859-622-6532.