Dual Enrollment at FDHS

Dual enrollment programs provide high school students a unique opportunity to jump-start their college career.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, college credits earned prior to high school graduation reduce the average time-to-degree and increase the likelihood of graduation. For parents, it’s an opportunity to reduce future college expenses by shortening the time to college graduation.

Dual enrollment allows qualified high school students to enroll in college coursework while still in high school. Courses are taught by full or part-time faculty who meet VCCS credentialing requirements and are teachers here at Fort Defiance. Credit for dual enrollment courses is generally accepted at many Virginia private and public colleges.

It's important that students and their parents understand that the amount of work necessary to succeed in a dual enrollment course is greater than in a traditional high school course. In addition, dual enrollment courses become part of a student's permanent college transcript so it's essential that students do well in these courses to realize all the benefits of dual enrollment which include:

  • A quality, affordable education close to home

  • Enriched course opportunities for outstanding high school students both in academic coursework and in career and technical education

  • Students enter college with credits applicable to their degree program

  • Students gain understanding of the rigor of college work as well as college faculty expectations

  • Access to college resources, facilities and services such as advising and career counseling

At Fort Defiance High School, the vast majority of dual enrollment courses are offered through a partnership with Blue Ridge Community College. On occasion, we have also offered a dual enrollment course through Dabney S. Lancaster Community College. Students taking courses at Valley Career and Technical Center or the Shenandoah Valley Governor's School may also be able to take dual enrollment courses through the University of Virginia and/or James Madison University.

Dual enrollment courses are available to high school juniors and seniors who have demonstrated academic readiness for collegiate work. On occasion, sophomores may be granted permission to take a dual enrollment course but such cases are considered exceptional and must be approved by the participating college. All students enrolling in a dual enrollment course must meet both course prerequisites and testing criteria.  

Click below for more resources.