As a parent, you want the best for your child—especially when it comes to their education.
You’ve likely heard about dual enrollment, but what does it really mean, and how can it benefit your student? At Saint Joseph High School (SJHS), our dual enrollment program with Shepherd University and Blue Ridge Community & Technical College is designed to give students a competitive edge—allowing them to take college-level courses while still in high school, without additional tuition costs.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about dual enrollment at SJHS, from how it works to the real benefits for your child’s academic and career future.
What is Dual Enrollment?
Dual enrollment is a program that allows high school students to take college courses and earn credits toward both their high school diploma and a college degree. This means students can experience real college coursework while still having the structure and support of high school.
At SJHS, we’ve partnered with Shepherd University and Blue Ridge CTC to offer students access to 100- and 200-level college courses in a variety of subjects. These courses are included in the tuition families already pay, making it an incredible opportunity for both academic and career-minded students.
Our Dual Enrollment Partners:
How Does Dual Enrollment Compare to AP Courses?
Both programs offer college-level coursework, but dual enrollment provides a more direct advantage:
| Feature | Dual Enrollment at SJHS | AP Classes |
|---|---|---|
|
Earns College Credit |
✅ Yes – Guaranteed if passed |
✅ Sometimes – Must pass AP exam |
|
No Additional Cost |
✅ Yes – Included in SJHS tuition |
❌ No – AP exams have fees |
|
Taught by College Professors |
✅ Yes |
❌ No – Taught by high school teachers |
|
Recognized by Colleges |
✅ Yes – Transferable credits |
✅ Yes – But not all colleges accept AP scores |
|
Hands-On Experience |
✅ Yes – Especially for career courses |
❌ No – Mostly theoretical learning |
How to Enroll in Dual Enrollment Courses
With limited seats available, parents who want their child to take advantage of dual enrollment must act early to secure a spot.
📞 Ready to learn more? Contact our admissions team today to start the conversation!
At Saint Joseph High School, we’re not just preparing students for the future—we’re giving them a head start. Join us today and watch your child thrive!
