Earn College Credit While in High School and Save
High school students can take college classes to earn credit before they graduate. These classes help students explore future careers and build confidence with college work. They also fit into busy schedules and can help students move toward a degree or job-ready credential.
Getting ahead in college now can save both time and money. STLCC offers several ways to earn college credit.
Which Option is Right for Your Student?
By taking college classes in high school, students earn credits that can lower future tuition and develop study habits that support long-term success. The College offers several options, from general education classes to career-focused pathways. Students can take classes on an STLCC campus, online or at their high school (when available).
Dual Enrollment
Dual enrollment lets high school students take STLCC courses taught by STLCC faculty. These classes can happen on campus, online or sometimes at the high school.
- Flexible for students who want real college experience and credits.
- STLCC also offers Early College / Make it Count programs.
Dual Credit
Dual credit classes are college courses taught by a high school teacher who has been approved by STLCC. Students earn both high school and college credit for the same class.
Dual credit is great for students who want college credit without leaving their high school.
Career-Focused Programs
These programs help students follow a clear path of classes that can lead to many college credits—sometimes even an associate degree.
- Designed for students with specific goals, like earning a two- or four-year degree.
- Offers a clear plan for college or career training.
- Some programs are limited to certain schools or areas, such as Ameren STEM for North St. Louis County high school students.
Why Students and Families Choose STLCC
Starting college coursework in high school sets you up for success. You gain a head start on university expectations, earn credits that can reduce the total cost of a degree and develop the habits that drive long-term achievement.
- Save time: The more college credits a student earns in high school, the faster they can finish a degree later.
- Save money: College credits through STLCC are far less expensive than taking the same course after high school — and that reduces the need for loans.
- Get real college experience: Students build new skills, learn to manage a college schedule and experience life on a college campus before graduating high school.
- Transferable credits: Many STLCC classes are part of the CORE 42 Missouri Transfer (MOTR) pathway and move easily to public universities in Missouri.
- Earn college credit early: Dual credit and dual enrollment courses appear on an official STLCC transcript and may transfer to many colleges and universities.
- Explore interests and career paths: Try out classes in areas such as business, health care, engineering or the arts to discover career interests.
- Strengthen college applications: Success in college-level coursework demonstrates readiness for rigorous study. Strong grades can support scholarship applications and showcase academic commitment.
Additional Resources for High School Students
CORE 42
42-credit hour general transfer block that is guaranteed to be accepted by any Missouri
public university.
High School and Parent/Guardian Resources
STLCC builds partnerships with local high schools to support students and their families.
Academic Success and Tutoring
STLCC tutors offer support to help you develop study skills, prepare for tests and
access academic resources.
Access Office
The access office provides accommodations and resources for individuals with disabilities
to support their success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these credits transfer?
Many STLCC credits — especially CORE 42 Missouri Transfer (MOTR) classes — transfer to public universities in Missouri. Always check transfer policies with the college you plan to attend.
Do dual credit and dual enrollment students register and drop classes on their own?
Dual credit and dual enrollment course registration and drops are handled through the College. Students must work with their advisor or the dual credit and dual enrollment office.
Can a student earn an associate degree while in high school?
Yes. Through our Early College program, high school students can earn an associate degree by high school graduation. Talk to your high school counselor to learn more. Homeschooled students should meet with an STLCC advisor to develop a two-year plan.
How many classes can I take each term?
Students can take as many as 18 credit hours (between one and six classes) each semester. Meet with your high school counselor and STLCC advisor to decide how many courses to take in your first semester.
Do I need to take placement tests?
Placement is required for certain subjects, such as math and English. Students may use high school grades, STLCC placement test scores or scores from a standardized test such as ACT or AP. Dual credit and dual enrollment students should meet college-level reading proficiency before enrolling in classes.
Can homeschooled students participate?
Yes. Homeschooled students who meet eligibility criteria can apply, submit transcripts and register for approved courses.
How do online classes work for high school students?
Online courses use Canvas, STLCC’s learning management system, for lectures, assignments and discussions. Expect regular deadlines, instructor interaction and access to tutoring and tech support. Reliable internet and strong time management skills are essential.
What support will I receive?
Dual credit and dual enrollment students have access to academic advising, tutoring, libraries, disability support services and career guidance. We provide the tools for your success and ensure you have a confident start in college.
Start Earning College Credits Today
If you're a high school student ready to start earning college credits, our dual credit/enrollment partnerships team is ready to help. We'll support you every step of the way. Contact us at dcep@stlcc.edu or 314-513-4216 to get started.