Dual Credit Introduction

The Dual Credit program in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD, in collaboration with Dallas College, provides eligible high school students with an opportunity to earn college credits while fulfilling the requirements of their high school diploma. This guide outlines the policies and procedures students and their families can follow to apply for and enroll in Dual Credit courses.

Introduction and Purpose: 

Students can gain real-world experience and further their post-secondary goals by enrolling in Dual Credit. Students can:

• Access rigorous coursework and 

• Receive equitable post-secondary opportunities. 

• save money by earning college credits while in high school.

• learn about and prepare for careers with Industry-based classes 

• earn certificates.

The Dual Credit program will:

• Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and guidance established by federal and state laws, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), and the CFBISD Board of Trustees. 

• Open and maintain open lines of communication with students, families, partners, and district personnel. 

  • Share information

  • Facilitate resolution of students’ needs

  • Support teachers, counselors, facilitators, and administrators

Colleges and CFBISD have a Memorandum of Understanding 

The Memorandum of Understanding between the District and the institutes of higher learning is reviewed and approved by the CFBISD school board annually. They review data on the District's progress or enrollment in advanced courses, disaggregated by race/ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status. 

The MOUs are available upon request. 

Please email Dr. Schackmann at SchackmannR@cfbisd.edu and reference the year and the campus where the student enrolled. 

How Students and Families can use the Dual Credit Guide: 

As a student in grades 9-12, you may wish to enroll in dual credit courses to advance your academic learning and obtain college credit, providing a head start in your higher education journey. The Dual Credit guide has been created to make it easier for you. 

Before selecting courses, it's essential to consult with your high school counselor to determine if the courses you're considering align with your high school and college plans. The High School Planning Guide can be used to choose the appropriate Dual Credit courses. 

Please note that courses listed outside the guide may not be eligible for high school credit. To receive the high school credit for a dual credit course, the course must be on the school district and college's mutual agreement. Students who take courses outside this list may not earn high school credit because the courses are not approved for high school credit. 

Remember that dual credit courses are recorded on your college transcripts, and failing or earning low grades in the college course can affect your GPA. Dual credit students who do not make adequate progress may risk starting college on academic probation due to the grades in their college courses. College credits earned through dual credit are transferable based on institutional policy, and students should check with the colleges to which they are applying regarding dual credit transfer requirements. 

Enrolling in dual credit courses is an excellent opportunity to advance your education, but knowing the potential risks and requirements is essential. You can make the most of this opportunity with proper planning and guidance from your high school counselor.