High School Students
Start College Before You Finish High School
You do not have to wait until after graduation to begin your college journey. Dickinson State University gives high school students opportunities to take college-level courses, earn credit, and experience college learning early.
Through dual credit, early entry, and Early University options, you can explore subjects that interest you, build confidence, and start working toward your future. These opportunities may also help reduce future college costs and make the transition to college feel less overwhelming.
DSU can help you understand your options and take the next step when you are ready.
Dual Credit
If you want to earn college credit without leaving your high school classroom, the dual credit option is for you. Dual credit classes are classes you take at your high school and are taught by a high school teacher. You will earn both high school and college credit with these classes.
Early Entry
If you want the full college experience, the early entry option is for you. Early entry classes are classes you take on the DSU campus, remote through DSUlive™, or online for college credit and are taught by DSU faculty. You might be able to also earn high school credit, but that is up to your high school, so check with your guidance counselor.
Early University
Early University (Early U) includes all opportunities for students to earn college credit through DSU while they are in high school, including studying toward a degree program while attending high school. Early U students can expect to be able to be involved in the same traditional experiences as their peers, including participating in their school’s extracurricular activities, while pursuing college coursework or degree programs. Students may attend Early University through Dual Credit at their high school or Early Entry on the DSU campus, from a distance via DSUlive™, or online.