Dual Enrollment at Liberty University
Dual Enrollment at Liberty University offers high school students a head start on their college education by enabling them to earn college credits while completing high school. This program is ideal for students looking to reduce the time and cost of earning a degree and explore various academic fields early. Whether the goal is to fast-track graduation, lighten future college course loads, or gain academic experience, Liberty’s dual enrollment offers a practical, structured pathway toward achieving these aims.
The flexibility of online learning plays a crucial role in making this program accessible. With 24/7 access to course materials, students can complete assignments at their convenience, balancing coursework with extracurricular activities. This self-paced format promotes the development of time management and independent learning skills, preparing students for the challenges of college life while still in high school.
Liberty’s dual enrollment extends beyond just academics by aligning with biblically-centered education, offering a learning experience that nurtures both intellectual and personal growth. Students can explore multiple fields—such as business, psychology, healthcare, and IT—while remaining grounded in courses that reflect Christian values. Specialized programs like aviation training further allow students to explore niche interests while working toward college credits.
Financial savings are another significant advantage. Dual enrollment at Liberty University offers up to 75% off standard tuition rates, making it an attractive option for families seeking affordable education. Completing general education requirements early enables students to save on future college tuition and opens up opportunities for internships, research, or extracurricular involvement during later college years. Furthermore, the flexibility of this program ensures students can customize their academic journey by handpicking courses aligned with their career goals.
Program Details
Liberty University’s dual enrollment program is designed specifically for high school juniors and seniors, offering them the opportunity to earn college-level credits while still in high school. With a variety of options available, students can tailor their experience to align with personal academic and career goals. Below are some of the program’s essential components and offerings.
Eligibility Requirements
- The program is open to 11th and 12th graders who have completed at least 10th grade.
- Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 to be eligible.
- Both new and current Liberty Online Academy students are welcome, with additional documentation is required for new applicants.
Available Programs and Credit Options
- Students can earn up to 36 college credits, providing a significant head start toward a bachelor’s degree.
- Courses cover a broad range of subjects, including business, psychology, IT, healthcare, and more. Specialized fields, such as aviation, allow students to explore niche interests.
- Liberty offers certificate programs and associate degree tracks. Students can graduate high school with an associate degree (60–64 credits) or specialized certificates (18–21 credits) in areas that complement their long-term career goals.
Flexible Scheduling and Online Access
- The program’s 100% online format ensures students can study at their own pace. Assignments are typically due weekly, but there are no fixed class times, making it easier to balance school with other activities.
- Liberty also allows rolling enrollment throughout the year, with multiple terms available to suit student schedules.
- Students have 24/7 access to coursework and grades, empowering them to stay on top of their academic progress.
Tailored Academic Pathways
- Students can hand-pick courses that align with their interests, allowing them to explore potential majors or careers early.
- Liberty offers enhanced courses for student-athletes, certified through the NCAA, ensuring they meet eligibility for future college sports participation.
Support Services
- Liberty University provides academic and technical support to help students succeed. Certified teachers, counselors, and dedicated staff are available to assist with coursework and guidance throughout the enrollment period.
Liberty’s dual enrollment program goes beyond academics by offering customized pathways and support resources to help students achieve their goals efficiently. With self-paced learning, multiple course options, and flexible scheduling, the program caters to students with different learning styles and career aspirations, ensuring a smooth transition into higher education.
Key Benefits
Liberty University’s dual enrollment program offers several compelling benefits that make it a great choice for high school students who want to jump-start their college careers while saving time and money. Below are the key advantages of the program:
1. Academic Preparation and Skill Development
- Dual enrollment introduces students to college-level coursework, helping them develop essential skills such as critical thinking, time management, and self-directed learning.
- Students gain exposure to the expectations of higher education in a supportive environment, ensuring they are better prepared for the challenges of full-time college life.
- Engaging in rigorous academic material early boosts college readiness and enhances students’ confidence as they transition into undergraduate programs.
2. Financial Savings and Cost Reduction
- One of the most significant advantages of Liberty’s program is the up to 75% discount on tuition for dual enrollment courses. This allows students to earn credits at a fraction of the cost of traditional college tuition.
- Completing general education credits early reduces the financial burden of future college semesters, potentially saving families thousands of dollars over time.
- Additional savings come from reduced transportation costs, as courses are entirely online, eliminating the need to commute to campus or local community colleges.
3. Time Efficiency and Faster Degree Completion
- Students have the chance to earn up to 36 college credits, accelerating their degree progress and giving them a head start on college graduation.
- Early completion of required courses can create more room for internships, research projects, and extracurricular activities during later semesters.
- Students pursuing associate degrees through dual enrollment may even graduate high school with a completed degree, reducing the time needed to earn a bachelor’s degree.
4. Flexible and Customizable Learning Experience
- Liberty’s self-paced, 100% online format allows students to fit courses into their schedules, balancing academics with extracurricular activities and personal commitments.
- With multiple enrollment periods throughout the year, students can customize their learning experience by selecting terms that suit their schedules and workload.
- The program also offers the option to explore different fields, giving students a broader understanding of potential majors and career paths before committing to a degree.
5. Seamless Credit Transfer and College Integration
- Credits earned through Liberty’s dual enrollment program are widely transferable and can count toward various bachelor’s degree programs at Liberty and other universities.
- Students benefit from having college courses already on their transcripts, which may lighten future academic loads and increase scheduling flexibility during their undergraduate studies.
Liberty University’s dual enrollment program not only equips students with academic and practical skills but also provides financial and time-saving advantages. With flexibility, support, and a wide range of courses, it sets students on a path toward academic success while easing the transition to full-time college education.
Enrollment Process
Liberty University’s dual enrollment program offers a straightforward application and enrollment process, ensuring that high school students can smoothly transition into college-level coursework. Below are the key steps involved in enrolling:
1. Confirm Eligibility
- Students must be in 11th or 12th grade and have completed 10th grade with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Both new and current Liberty Online Academy students are eligible. Current students need fewer documents, while new applicants must submit specific academic records.
2. Gather Required Documents
- Applicants must submit their high school transcripts to verify academic performance.
- Depending on whether a student is applying part-time or full-time, they may need to submit official or unofficial transcripts.
- New applicants will also complete a dual enrollment request form as part of their application process.
3. Submit the Application
- Applications can be completed online via Liberty University’s enrollment portal. A $30 non-refundable processing fee is required with the application.
- It is recommended to coordinate with a high school guidance counselor to ensure that selected courses align with graduation requirements and future academic goals.
4. Select Courses and Register
- After acceptance, students work with their counselor to select appropriate courses based on their career interests and high school requirements.
- Liberty offers rolling enrollment across multiple terms, allowing students to register for courses throughout the year based on availability.
5. Financial Check-In and Payment Plans
- Once registered, students must complete financial check-in by the specified deadline for their chosen term.
- Liberty University offers 0% APR payment plans, making it easier for families to spread out the cost of tuition over several months.
6. Prepare for Classes
- Students will receive information on textbooks and required materials. Some courses use embedded digital content, but others may require additional purchases, such as from Barnes & Noble College.
- It’s essential to ensure that students have access to the required technology (such as a laptop and stable internet) to complete online coursework.
By following these steps, students can begin earning college credits at discounted rates while gaining valuable academic experience. The flexibility of rolling enrollment and multiple-term options makes it convenient for students to join the program at a time that suits their schedules.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Liberty University’s dual enrollment program offers significant cost-saving benefits, making higher education more affordable for high school students. Below is an overview of the tuition structure and financial assistance options available:
1. Tuition Costs
- Dual enrollment courses are available at a 75% discount compared to Liberty University’s standard undergraduate tuition rates.
- The cost per course typically averages around $549, making it accessible for students looking to earn college credits without the high expense of traditional programs.
- Some courses may have additional fees for textbooks or digital materials, ranging from $80 to $150 per course, depending on the subject. Liberty offers digital textbooks at a competitive $38 per credit hour to help students save further.
2. Financial Aid and Payment Plans
- While dual enrollment students may not qualify for traditional federal financial aid, Liberty University provides scholarship opportunities based on academic merit and financial need.
- 0% APR payment plans allow families to distribute tuition payments over several months instead of making lump-sum payments, easing the financial burden.
- Early enrollees may also benefit from additional tuition discounts, such as 10% off for early registration before specific deadlines.
3. Potential Cost Savings
- Completing 15 college credits through the dual enrollment program can cost approximately $4,125, which is significantly lower than the $9,675 that would typically be charged for the same credits through Liberty’s regular undergraduate program.
- By earning college credits early, students reduce the number of credits they need to complete post-high school, potentially saving $20,000 to $30,000 over four years.
- The program’s fully online format also helps families save on transportation and housing costs that traditional on-campus programs would require.
4. Additional Considerations
- Some courses may require virtual lab fees or technology investments, such as software or high-speed internet access, which should be factored into the overall cost.
- Liberty encourages students to plan their courses strategically with the help of high school counselors to maximize the value of dual enrollment credits, ensuring that all credits earned apply toward future degree programs.
In summary, Liberty University’s dual enrollment program offers affordable tuition rates and flexible payment options, making it an attractive option for families seeking to save on education costs. With opportunities to earn college credits early and access financial assistance, students can start their academic journey with less financial stress and a head start toward graduation.
FAQs and Transfer Credits
Below are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) and essential information about transfer credits for Liberty University’s dual enrollment program:
1. Can Dual Enrollment Credits Be Transferred to Other Universities?
- Yes, most credits earned through Liberty’s dual enrollment program can be transferred to other accredited colleges. These credits typically satisfy general education and elective requirements in bachelor’s degree programs.
- However, students should verify transfer policies with their intended colleges to ensure smooth credit transfer. Some universities may have specific articulation agreements with Liberty University that make the process easier.
2. How Do Dual Enrollment Credits Impact High School Graduation?
- Dual enrollment courses can count toward both high school graduation and college credit requirements. Students work with their high school counselors to ensure the selected courses align with their graduation plans.
- This dual credit system helps students fulfill high school obligations while earning valuable college credits, reducing the need for repeated coursework later.
3. What Types of Courses Are Available for Dual Enrollment?
- Liberty offers courses across a variety of subjects, including business, psychology, healthcare, criminal justice, IT, and even specialized programs like aviation.
- Students can also pursue associate degrees or certificate programs while in high school, further accelerating their academic journey.
4. How Many Credits Can I Earn Through Dual Enrollment?
- Students can earn up to 36 credit hours through the program, which provides a significant head start toward a bachelor’s degree.
- Liberty also allows students to hand-pick courses based on their academic and career interests, ensuring that their credits align with future degree requirements.
5. What Happens if I Don’t Use My Credits at Liberty University?
- While Liberty makes it easy to transfer dual enrollment credits within its programs, the credits can also be used at other institutions. However, students should confirm with their target schools about which credits will transfer.
- Credits earned through Liberty’s dual enrollment program are widely recognized, but it’s essential to plan to avoid complications with transferability.
6. What If I Decide to Withdraw from a Dual Enrollment Course?
- Withdrawal policies depend on the enrollment term. Liberty provides detailed guidelines regarding withdrawal deadlines and any associated fees. Students are advised to review these policies before enrolling in courses.
- It’s crucial to withdraw within the specified period to avoid financial penalties or negative academic records.
By strategically planning dual enrollment courses, students can maximize the value of their credits, ensuring they apply toward both high school and college requirements. With flexible course options and widely transferable credits, Liberty’s program sets students on a path for future academic success while offering the freedom to explore different academic fields.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Liberty University’s dual enrollment program offers a unique opportunity for high school students to gain valuable academic experience while saving time and money. With flexible online courses, significant tuition discounts, and transferable credits, students can explore potential career paths and lighten their future college workloads. This program is ideal for families seeking affordable education options without compromising on quality or academic rigor.
The combination of academic preparation, cost savings, and scheduling flexibility makes this program a powerful investment in a student’s future. Whether the goal is to earn an associate degree, complete general education credits early, or explore different academic fields, Liberty’s dual enrollment offers a structured and supportive pathway to success.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward college readiness and want to start earning credits while still in high school, now is the perfect time to enroll. Applying is easy, with multiple enrollment terms throughout the year and financial support options available to make it accessible for all.
Don’t miss the chance to unlock these academic and financial benefits! Visit Liberty University’s dual enrollment portal to apply today and give yourself a head start on your academic journey. Your future begins now—get ahead with Liberty University’s dual enrollment program!