High school students seeking an early start on earning college credit have a number of opportunities at Helena College through Dual Credit courses, On Campus Experience, and Big Sky Pathways. College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Advanced Placement (AP) credits are also accepted.
Dual Credit Courses
Helena College provides dual credit courses for high school students through interlocal agreements across the region with the following districts and high schools: Broadwater County, Drummond, Granite County, Helena School District, Jefferson County, and Three Forks. Dual credit allows students to enroll in courses at their high schools that satisfy diploma requirements and provide college credits applicable towards degree and certificate programs at Helena College University of Montana.
- Dual credit courses are provided at a reduced cost for tuition and fees.
- Earned credits are accepted by the high school and Helena College University of Montana.
- Earned credits can be transferable to other colleges and universities.
- Course availability varies by high school location.
- Certain eligibility requirements apply, and students must satisfy all course prerequisites and placement requirements.
Students interested in dual credit courses should contact their high school counselors and the Dual Credit Coordinator at Helena College University of Montana, 406-447-6929.
On Campus Experience
The On Campus Experience Program allows area high school students the opportunity to experience the college environment by taking classes at Helena College University of Montana. Eligible students can start working on a degree or certificate program offered by the college or earn transferable credits towards a four-year degree from the Montana University System.
- Courses are open based upon seat availability one week prior to the beginning of each semester.
- On Campus Experience courses are provided at a reduced cost for tuition and fees.
- Students may register for up to seven credits per semester and must satisfy any course prerequisites or placement requirements.
- Students must be 16 years of age, in their junior or senior year, and must provide proof of high school enrollment or participation in a home schooling program.
- Students must submit a Dual Enrollment Application and Registration Form.
Students interested in participating in the On Campus Experience Program should contact Admissions and Records at 406-447-6910. Course registration opens one week prior to the beginning of each semester.
Big Sky Pathways
Big Sky Pathways guides students to their chosen academic and career goals by providing seamless transitions from high school to college and into the workforce. Through a Strengthening Big Sky Pathways Grant, Helena College partners with area high schools to develop Programs of Study listing high school classes that will best prepare students for specific college majors, without needing remedial coursework. Pathways also recommend dual credit courses available at each high school, through the Montana Digital Academy, and as on-campus experiences. Dual credit Technical Math and Technical Writing are especially useful for students entering trades and technical fields. Helena College has developed pathways in Business, Accounting, Automotive Technology, Welding, Computer-Aided Manufacturing, Fire and Rescue, Legal Support Specialist, Computer Programming, Computer Network Administration, and Nursing - all of which are posted on Helena College’s website/Future Students/Big Sky Pathways.
Students should check with their high school counselor for approved classes or contact Admissions and Records at 406-447-6912.
