Gadsden, AL— Gadsden State Community College’s Dual Enrollment Program achieved yet another milestone in the 2023-24 academic year, boasting a total of 1,867 enrolled students across the fall and spring semesters. This substantial figure marks a significant 21.4 percent increase compared to the preceding academic year.
Tonya Douthitt, the coordinator of the Dual Enrollment Program, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We have seen a consistent increase in our numbers as more and more students are realizing the range of benefits to dual enrolling at Gadsden State.” She added, “Our program not only offers a cost savings, but it also offers academic enrichment and accelerated progress.”
The Dual Enrollment Program allows eligible high school students to concurrently enroll in Gadsden State courses alongside their high school classes, earning college credits for courses meeting the curriculum requirements of approved high school courses. These courses are available during fall, spring, and summer semesters, with registration currently open for upcoming semesters.
“We offer an extensive range of course selections that will seamlessly transfer to a four-year university or continue students on a path to a credential at Gadsden State,” Douthitt highlighted.
In an effort to further facilitate students’ educational pursuits, scholarships are now available for up to two classes during the fall semester. These scholarships, covering tuition, books, and supplies, serve as a valuable opportunity for students to excel academically and achieve their educational and career goals at an accelerated pace.
Cheyenne Balaam-Reed, a senior at Southside High School, shared her experience as a dual-enrollment student, stating, “Taking dual enrollment classes as a high school student is preparing me early for the college class structure and the coursework.” Balaam-Reed has successfully earned credits for six classes since enrolling during her sophomore year, highlighting the significant advantage of earning college credits while still in high school.
Aside from the academic benefits, the flexibility offered by the Dual Enrollment Program has proven invaluable for students like Balaam-Reed, who maintain active involvement in extracurricular activities. “Dual-enrollment classes are offered on Gadsden State campuses in a traditional classroom setting but they are also offered online,” she noted. “Some high schools offer courses onsite. Students can take most classes in the format that is best for them and their busy schedules.”
To be eligible for the Dual Enrollment Program, students must be a high school sophomore, junior or senior. They must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 for academic courses or a 2.0 to enroll in approved career technical programs. Approval is required from parents and a high school official.
Students must be enrolled the following school systems: Calhoun County, Anniston City, Oxford City, Talladega County, Jacksonville City, Piedmont City, Cherokee County, Etowah County, Gadsden City, St. Clair County and Cleburne County. Students enrolled in home school programs or private schools within Gadsden State’s service area are also eligible.
For those seeking further information about the Dual Enrollment Program, detailed information is available at gadsdenstate.edu/dualenrollment. As the program continues to witness unprecedented growth, it stands as a beacon of opportunity for high school students looking to embark on an accelerated path towards higher education and career advancement.
