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On Ramp to College: A State Policymaker’s Guide to Dual Enrollment Nancy Hoffman, Joel Vargas, and Janet Santos (2008)
Summary:
On Ramp to College reviews trends in a growing number of states that see dual enrollment as a way to expand college opportunity—particularly for students who might not be considered college-bound. The guide shows how dual enrollment can serve as an “on ramp” to postsecondary education for students who are otherwise unlikely to attend college. It guide also highlights successful state-wide dual enrollment efforts, provides a step-by-step plan for policymakers to create successful programs and assess current approaches, and guides state officials in how to provide a wide range of students with equal access to dual enrollment and make it part of a continuous system for grades 9-16.
Most states developed dual enrollment programs to give advanced students a head start on college. Few programs were designed to serve as a bridge to college for those students not already college-bound. However, the situation is changing as dual enrollment programs have become more common and a wider variety of students participate. States can increase the likelihood of creating successful programs by following several guiding principles:
Create a clear purpose;
Provide equal access and eligibility;
Offer high-quality course options and student support systems;
Ensure adequate funding and systems to track data on quality and outcomes; and
Build governance and alignment to ensure coordination between high schools and higher education institutions.
