AP & Dual Enrollment
Sullivan County Schools offers multiple pathways for students to earn college credit and industry credentials while still in high school, preparing them for future academic and career success.
Pathways to College Credit
- Dual enrollment: Simultaneously enrolled in high school and college courses
- Dual Credit: High school courses with college credit exams
- Industry Credentials: Career-focused certifications recognized by employers
- AP Program: College-level courses with potential credit via exam scores.
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Dual Enrollment: University Parallel
Dual enrollment allows students to be enrolled in both Sullivan County Schools and a college/university simultaneously. University Parallel courses can transfer to programs leading to Associate's or Bachelor's degrees.
Examples Include:
- English Composition 1 & 2
- Speech
- Problem Stats
Students receive both high school and college credit for these courses.
** University Parallel courses may have costs. Students must be eligible for the dual enrollment grant to receive the first two courses for free. Additional courses require payment based on the number taken.
Requirements:
- Junior or senior status
- Tennessee resident
- 3.0 or higher GPA
- ACT sub-score of 19 in English and reading for general education courses
- ACT sub-score of 19 in math for math courses
- Completed college/university application
- High school transcipt and ACT scores
Dual Enrollment: Career Technical Education (CTE)
CTE Dual Enrollment courses are taken at the home school or college campus and lead to certifications in specialized technical fields such as Machine Tool Technology or Computer Aided Drafting.
** CTE programs provide hands-on training in high-demand career fields while earning both high school and college credit.
Requirements:
- Currently enrolled in high school
- Tennessee resident
- 2.0 or higher GPA
- ACT math score of 19 or completion of SAILS math
- Submission of college/university application
- High school transcript and ACT/SAT scores
Understanding Dual Credit
State Dual Credit
Statewide standardized courses with aligned assessments that can earn postsecondary credit at any Tennessee public institution
Local Dual Credit
High school courses aligned to a local post secondary institutions course and exam, with credits recognized by that institution
Advanced Placement
College Board courses with standardized exams that may earn credit at participating colleges nationwide
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Advanced Placement (AP) Program
Since 2021, Tennessee Department of Education has partnered with the Niswonger Foundation to increase access to virtual AP courses at no cost to students. Program benefits include:
- Free access to rigorous AP coursework
- Professional development for teachers
- Thousands of students gaining AP access
- Over $1,000,000 in potential tuition costs saved
For more information, visit the AP Access for All website or view the Impact Reports.
AP Advantages in College
Earn College Credit and Placement
Your AP score could earn college credits before you even begin college. Most AP students who enroll in four-year colleges start with some credit already earned.
Save Money and Time
Earning credit or placement can free up your schedule or even allow you to graduate early, reducing overall tuition costs.
Stand Out in Applications
"AP" on your high school transcript shows colleges you're motivated to succeed, and taking the exam demonstrates your commitment to college-level work.
Keep Options Open
College credit from AP provides flexibility to change majors, pursue a second degree, study abroad, or seek internships.
College Preparation
Research shows AP students are better prepared for college regardless of exam score. They're more likely to enroll, stay in college, perform well, and graduate in four years.
Skill Development
AP courses help develop essential college skills:
- Time management
- Critical thinking
- Scholarly writing
Academic Benefits
- Discover your academic passion
- Study subjects in depth
- Potential career path exploration
- GPA boost (check with your school)
Local Dual Credit
Local dual credit is a high school course aligned to a local postsecondary institution's course and exam. Students who pass the exam earn credits that are accepted and/or recognized by the local postsecondary institution.
Key Features:
- Courses taught by licensed high school teachers or certified college instructors
- Instructors must be approved by both the school system and the postsecondary institution
- Credits typically recognized at the partnering local institution
- Provides another pathway to earn college credit while in high school
What Are Industry Credentials?
Industry credentials (IC) are earned through secondary and postsecondary career and technical education programs and courses. These nationally recognized credentials validate specific skills and knowledge valued by employers.
Credential Benefits
- Aligned with postsecondary and employment opportunities
- Validate competencies and skills acquired through programs of study
- Enhance employability in specific career fields
- Provide industry-recognized certification