Dual Credit Program
Dual Credits
High school students have an opportunity to earn up to four optional secondary school credits and four college credits simultaneously by participating in the college Dual Credit Program. Dual Credit Programs are designed to assist secondary school students in the completion of their OSSD and successful transition to college and apprenticeship programs.
The Dual Credit Program was developed through the Ministry of Education and School/College/Work Initiative (SCWI) to build and sustain better linkages between the college system and the secondary school system. Dual credit programs are an important part of the government's Student Success Strategy and Reaching Higher Plan for Postsecondary Education.
Benefits to participating students include:
- Earning a college credit at no financial cost
- Potential to earn more than the standard number secondary school credits in one year
- Increasing awareness of college and apprenticeship options
- Opportunity to experience college first-hand
- Contributes to a smooth and more successful transition from secondary school to college
In order to qualify, students should be at least 16 years of age and have successfully completed the OSSD literacy requirement (either OSSLT or OSSLC) with the potential to succeed in a college program. It is recommended that students have completed at least 16 credits prior to registering.
Other information:
- Available college courses and timetables vary from college to college and school to school
- Usually travel to the college one or two afternoons per week - HSR tickets will be provided if necessary
- Works well within the Special High Skills Majors program
Visit your school student services office for more information.
Dual Credits Are Currently Offered By: Mohawk College
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the successfully completed college course count towards my diploma/certificate when I get into college?
Yes, but it may depend on which course you completed. For example, a General Education course can be more easily transferred to any program within that college and perhaps even between colleges but, it is possible that a program specific course may only count at the specific college for that specific program. Check with your Guidance Counsellor for more information.
Are there any costs to the student?
There should be no additional cost to the student. HSR tickets are provided where necessary, the costs of textbooks are usually covered, and there are no tuition fees charged.
What will my schedule look like?
Your schedule will depend on when the course is offered, which college is offering the course, and how your school is timetabled. There are different scenarios for delivering the program such as through Cooperative Education, e-Learning, Credit Recovery, congregated, and integrated models. Check with your Guidance Counsellor for more information.
How do I find out more?
For more information on local dual credit programs, contact your school principal or the Student Success
Leader at your school board. Information can also be found at: www.edu.gov.on.ca/morestudentsuccess/dualCredit.html
HWCDSB Parent Fact Sheet: Fact Sheet