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College Credits in High School

College Credits (Dual Credits) in High School

Earn College Credits

Dual credit classes let high school students earn both high school and college credits at the same time. This can be done by taking a college-level class or earning a qualifying exam score. Studies show that students who take dual credit classes are more likely to graduate on time, go to college, stay in college, or start a career right after high school. These classes also count towards Washington’s credit requirements for graduation and give students a taste of college-level work. Even if students don't earn college credit, taking these classes can boost their confidence, introduce them to new careers, and offer more class choices.

Washington state requires schools to have an academic acceleration policy to make sure that capable students are challenged and encouraged to take tougher classes, such as dual credit. Peninsula School District’s policy can be found by clicking this link. Students can choose not to follow this policy if it does not fit their High School and Beyond Plan (HSBP). However, dual credit programs offer many ways for students to advance their academic and career goals.

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Dual Credit Opportunities in Washington State

Washington State offers multiple dual credit programs to support students in earning college credit during high school:

  • Exam-Based Programs: Advanced Placement (AP), Cambridge International, and International Baccalaureate (IB).
  • Classroom-Based Programs: Career and Technical Education (CTE) Dual Credit, College in the High School, and Running Start.
  • Open Doors Youth Re-Engagement: While not a traditional dual credit program, Open Doors helps students who are unlikely to graduate by age 21 earn college credit while completing high school.

At Peninsula School District, we offer a variety of dual credit programs to support students’ academic and career planning. Specific classes available through these programs are listed below.

Important Notes on Dual Credit
All dual credit programs appear on a student’s official high school transcript, regardless of whether college credit is earned. However, students must request and submit official college transcripts to the colleges they apply to for earned credits to transfer.

For more information on each program, visit the OSPI Dual Credit Programs webpage.

Access and Equity
Providing equitable access to dual credit opportunities is a top priority for Washington State lawmakers, OSPI, and Peninsula School District. Most programs are available at little to no cost as part of the public education experience. Financial assistance is also available for each program. Students can learn more by visiting their school’s counseling center.

At Peninsula School District, we are committed to supporting students in maximizing the value of dual credit opportunities. We encourage all interested students to work closely with school counselors to explore programs that align with their academic and career aspirations.

Exam Based Programs

College preparatory credit classes, such as Advanced Placement (AP) courses, are designed to provide high school students with the opportunity to engage in college-level academic work. By enrolling in these courses, students can earn college credits before graduating from high school, potentially allowing them to skip introductory courses or graduate early. Participating in AP courses not only demonstrates a student's motivation and commitment to academic excellence but also helps develop essential skills like time management and critical thinking, which are crucial for success in higher education. Additionally, having AP courses on a high school transcript can make students more attractive to colleges during the admissions process.

For a list of each AP course offered at your High School, check out the Course Catalog!

CTE Dual Credit

CTE Dual Credit, previously known as Tech Prep, is a program that allows high school students to earn college credit by completing career and technical education (CTE) courses. These courses are taught by certified high school instructors using college-approved curricula. By successfully completing these courses, students can gain both high school and college credit, helping them save on tuition and time as they transition to postsecondary education or enter the workforce with advanced skills. This program is designed to align high school coursework with college-level standards and industry needs, providing students with practical, career-focused education.

For a list of each Dual Credit course offered at your High School, check out the Course Catalog!

College in the High School 

College in the High School (CiHS) is a program that offers high school students the opportunity to earn college credit by taking college-level academic courses within their high school. These courses are taught by qualified high school instructors who use curricula approved by partnering colleges or universities. Students earn dual credit, meaning the courses count toward both high school graduation requirements and college credit, providing a cost-effective way to start college early. CiHS allows students to experience rigorous academic standards, helping them prepare for the transition to higher education while reducing the time and expense needed to complete a college degree.

For a list of each CiHS course offered at your High School, check out the Course Catalog!

Running Start

Running Start is a program in Washington State that allows eligible high school juniors and seniors to enroll in college courses at local community and technical colleges, or some four-year universities, tuition-free. Students earn dual credit, meaning the courses count toward both high school graduation and college degree requirements. While tuition is covered, students are responsible for other costs such as books, fees, and transportation. Running Start provides a unique opportunity for students to experience college-level academics, explore potential career paths, and reduce the time and expense required to complete a college degree.

  • Washington Student Achievement Council

    Learn more about earning college credit in high school through programs like Running Start, CTE Dual Credit, and College in the High School by visiting WSAC's College Credit in High School page.

  • Dual Credit and Running Start Resources

    Discover how high school students can earn college credit through career and technical education courses on the SBCTC CTE Dual Credit page.

  • AP College Board

    Learn about Advanced Placement (AP) courses and how they help high school students earn college credit by visiting the College Board's AP Program page.