Start College Early with STLCC Dual Enrollment

February 06, 2026

What if you could graduate from high school and earn your associate degree at the same time?

Through college credit options for high school students at St. Louis Community College, motivated learners can take real classes early, saving time, saving money and starting with confidence.

Just ask Faith Kothe, a student at Parkway West High School, who is already taking college classes through STLCC - and loving it.

“It puts me one step ahead.”

Faith joined STLCC’s dual enrollment program with encouragement from her parents. At first, she went along with the idea. Now? She’s proud of it.

“I’m very proud of being able to have that one step ahead for when I do go to college,” Faith says. “Especially since I plan to go to graduate school and get my doctorate. It just makes the process faster and easier.”

By earning college credits now, Faith is shortening the time it will take to reach her big goals — and she’s doing it while still in high school.

College classes through dual enrollment… easier than high school?

This might surprise you: Faith says many of her college classes actually feel easier than her high school classes.

“Overall, it feels easier than high school classes,” she explains. “They’re simpler and fast-paced since they’re only 16-week classes, instead of full-year courses.”

College classes move quickly, but they’re focused. For students who like structure and efficiency, that can be a huge win.

Learning to step outside your comfort zone

Taking college classes while still in high school comes with challenges. For Faith, the biggest one was balancing friendships.

“I had to force myself out of my comfort zone and just talk to people in my classes,” she says. “That helped keep my semesters social and positive.”

Between college and high school schedules, hangouts take more planning — but Faith says it’s worth it. She’s learned how to connect with new people while still staying close to her high school friends.

Feeling confident on a college campus

One of Faith’s favorite parts of the program? Being on campus.

“Feeling smart enough to be here,” she says. “I’m proud of getting the grades that I do in college-level courses.”

She also loves independence; walking around campus, setting her own routine, and feeling trusted to manage her time. For students who value freedom and accountability, dual enrollment offers a real preview of college life.

Balancing it all (yes, it’s possible!)

Between high school classes, college courses, sports and a job, Faith stays busy. Planning ahead makes all the difference.

“I register for classes in a way that allows time to study and work on homework,” she explains.

Now that she’s a senior, balancing everything feels natural. Over time, dual enrollment students build strong time-management skills that support success well beyond high school.

Real advice from a real student

Thinking about Early College? Faith keeps it real:

“You HAVE to be responsible,” she says. “College-level work is very different from high school.”

She also encourages students to communicate with professors and not be afraid to let them know they’re dually enrolled.

That responsibility pays off. One skill Faith didn’t expect to gain?

“Balance,” she says. “I’ve learned how to communicate my workload to my parents, teachers, coaches, and managers, so they understand the weight of everything.”

That’s a life skill that lasts long after graduation.

A program that helps shape your future

Dual enrollment even helped Faith rethink her career path. She originally planned to go into funeral work. Now, she’s pursuing psychology, with plans for graduate school and a doctorate.

“Having college credits completed earlier is going to speed up the education process,” she says. “I’m very excited for my time in college because of it.”

College credit in high school at STLCC

STLCC offers two college-in-high-school options that allow students to earn college credit before high school graduation.

Dual Enrollment

The dual enrollment program gives high school students a smart way to get ahead. Instead of waiting until graduation, you can start earning college credit while you’re still in high school.

During your junior and senior years, you’ll take college classes full-time. The credits you earn count toward both your high school diploma and a college degree — so your hard work really pays off.

Attend real college classes at STLCC with other college students
Learn from experienced college instructors
Use helpful college resources like the library, computer labs and free tutoring services.

This option is ideal for students who are motivated, organized and ready for college-level coursework.

Dual Credit

Dual credit allows you to earn credit for what you’re already doing: taking challenging courses at your high school.

College credit classes taught by high school teachers, usually at your high school.
The coursework is just like real college classes, giving you real college-level experience.
Courses conveniently fit your schedule.

Both programs give you a feel for college life, help build confidence and make the transition to a four-year university smoother and faster.