Lone Star College gives high school students a head start toward a college degree

HOUSTON, TX -- Lone Star College offers a robust and competitive Dual Credit program that allows students to earn college-level certificates and associate degrees while still in high school.

“Dual Credit is a great opportunity to earn both high school and college credit at the same time,” said Gerald Napoles, Ph.D., LSC Vice Chancellor Student Success. “Some benefits include saving money on college tuition, earning a college certificate or degree faster and transferring credits earned to college and universities.”

Dual Credit at LSC is a cost-effective initiative where high school students pay a reduced tuition rate, saving nearly $800, and the cost of their textbooks. The program also prepares them to transition smoothly to college life. Joselyn Lemus, a Davis High School student, credits the program for helping her to develop time management, communication and problem-solving skills. Lemus will graduate from high school in May with an associate of arts degree from LSC-Houston North Fallbrook.

“I enrolled in dual credit courses to increase my high school GPA, save money for college and graduate from a university early, if possible,” said Lemus. “The program has expanded my knowledge, positively changed my perspective on education and has given me insight into what college is like.” Lemus plans to attend Texas Tech University and earn a bachelor’s degree in architecture.

Students can earn a workforce certificate, complete their core classes or attain an associate degree while balancing school commitments. Natalia Rodriguez, a former dual credit student at Langham Creek High School and LSC-CyFair, said the program prepared her for the next step. She is studying industrial engineering at the University of Houston.

“Dual Credit was a perfect opportunity because I could take college classes now (11th grade), get ahead and have those credits count toward my degree,” said Rodriguez. “The transition from high school to LSC-CyFair was seamless, and because I was prepared, I earned a scholarship to attend the University of Houston.”

Under Dual Credit, the LSC Early College High School program prepares students to graduate high school with a diploma and an associate degree or earn at least 60 credit hours toward a baccalaureate degree. ECHS offers rigorous instruction and accelerated courses at no cost to the students. Additionally, they can access academic and support services at LSC, such as the library, campus activities and technology to ensure their success.

“As an Early College High School student, I have the opportunity to take college courses now, which saves me a lot of money and time,” said Xenia Navarro, Spring Early College Academy student who takes classes at LSC-North Harris. “Additionally, I get to experience a taste of college life to discern if it’s something I want to continue post-graduation.”

Lone Star College offers Dual Credit courses at 11 school districts within Harris and Montgomery counties. The college system serves 21,419 dual credit students this spring, a 7.6% increase from spring 2022. Learn more at LoneStar.edu/DualCredit.