NORFOLK — It is getting cheaper to go to college while still in high school.
The Northeast Community College Board of Governors voted unanimously in their most recent meeting to lower the price per credit hour for dual credit students from $69 to $49.
Director of Early College Makala Williams says she thinks the decision is rooted in trying to give the most opportunity possible.
“They realized that cost was a hinderance to some students and they though that this was a good solution to that,” Williams said.
Dual credit classes are taught in high schools by teachers that meet Northeast requirements and count as college credit for the students. High schoolers can also take college classes at the discounted rate on campus or through the school’s Fridays at Northeast program.
Williams says it gives students their first taste of college and their first taste of Northeast.
“They have no idea what they want to do or where they want to go, so if they try a class or two through Northeast they like it here and they end up coming here full time,” Williams said.
College President Dr. Michael Chipps says students are always transitioning between the different levels of education and this gives high schoolers a sample of the rigor and competitiveness of college.
Williams agrees.
“For them to be successful in a college class while still in high school gives them the encouragement to continue on and continue to college,” Williams said.
The college currently has 1,100 dual credit students.
