CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — Dual credit enrollment at Parkland College increased by 3.1% this fall, according to the Dean of Enrollment Management.
The "Early College" program serves 1,158 district high school students, of whom 505 are currently enrolled.
Students take dual credit courses taught in area high schools, at Parkland's campus, through the Early College and Career Academy, and a joint effort of the Education for Employment system.
The ECCA serves around 235 area high school juniors and seniors through technical courses in education, precision agriculture, construction, and more.
Parkland College President Pamela Lau said students and parents see the benefits of dual credit. "High school students who are interested in getting a head start on college and taking a shorter path to a rewarding career will find dual credit an excellent option," Lau said. "More District 05 families are finding that not only is dual credit affordable, it prepares students for their next steps after high school due to the academic rigor and transfer-ability of Parkland courses."
The 2024 Illinois Community College Board report shows that community colleges in the State offered 14,638 dual credit courses, with 82,600 high school students enrolled in at least one or more dual credit courses. Dual enrollment statewide increased 8.1% from 2023.
There are 48 community colleges in the State, and they all offer dual credit courses. According to ICCB, high school students who enroll in dual credit have higher community college graduation rates and advancements than those who do not.
Amina Alamin, a high school student, earned her high school diploma and Parkland's General Education Core Curriculum at the same time this past May. She said the pr gram prepared her for advanced university transfer.
"Taking GECC classes has been beneficial to my life even outside of school," Alamin said. "Making connections through GECC has provided a place of mutual support and encouragement, making my journey all the more meaningful. It offers a fantastic opportunity for young individuals to kick-start their college journey."
Alamin completed the GECC sequence, earning a General Education certificate.
Parkland College is located in Champaign.
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