Michigan officials review dual enrollment limits and propose policy changes

In a recent meeting of the Michigan Legislature's Subcommittee on Higher Education and Community Colleges, discussions centered around the dual enrollment program, which allows high school students to earn college credits before graduation. The conversation highlighted the current cap of 10 courses, equating to approximately 30 college credits, and raised questions about whether this limit should be expanded.

A representative emphasized the importance of dual enrollment, noting that it can significantly reduce the time students need to utilize state scholarships, such as the Michigan Achievement Scholarship. This scholarship provides up to $5,500 annually for students attending four-year institutions, and by allowing students to earn more credits early, they could potentially graduate sooner, making the scholarship more sustainable over time.

The committee acknowledged a lack of data regarding how many students are reaching the 10-course limit. To address this, a work group was formed last year, comprising representatives from various sectors, including K-12 education, higher education, and the business community. This group conducted a thorough review of the existing statute, which has remained largely unchanged since its passage in 1996. They are set to present around ten policy recommendations aimed at improving the dual enrollment system.

As the committee prepares to share these recommendations, the focus remains on using data to inform decisions about potential changes to the dual enrollment cap. The discussions reflect a broader commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for Michigan students, ensuring they can maximize their college readiness while still in high school.