Juniors and seniors have the opportunity to participate in dual credit courses through a partnership with Lamar State College–Orange (LSCO). Dual credit allows students to earn college credits while still receiving high school credit, helping them get a head start on college, reduce future tuition costs, and become familiar with college‑level expectations such as faster pacing and independent work.
LSCO dual credit tuition is $45 per credit hour for most academic and technical courses, with most classes ranging from about $135 to $180 per semester. Textbooks and online materials are provided through the Gator BookPack program, and payment plans and dual credit scholarships are available. Students who are currently classified as economically disadvantaged or who have been within the past four years may qualify for free tuition and textbooks, and certain Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses—including Animal Science, Cosmetology, Welding, Construction Technology, and Culinary Arts—are tuition‑free when taught by qualified LCM instructors, allowing students to gain both college credit and hands‑on experience at no cost.
LCM offers a variety of dual credit courses to meet both academic and career‑focused goals. Academic dual credit courses include core subjects such as English, history, government, math, and science, including College Algebra. CTE dual credit courses include Animal Science, Construction Technology, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Health Science, Process Technology I and II, and Welding, and some programs also allow students to earn college certificates upon completion.
To enroll in dual credit courses, students must meet college‑readiness requirements, usually through the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment, though qualifying SAT or ACT scores may provide exemptions. Students must maintain a grade of C or higher, as grades become part of a permanent college transcript and most colleges only accept passing grades for transfer credit. Final exams are required in all dual credit courses, and high school exemption policies do not apply.
Classes may be taken at LCM or LSCO. Courses taught at LCM are led by instructors who meet college teaching standards, while students attending LSCO courses in person must provide proof of meningitis vaccination, arrange transportation, and may attend classes outside the regular school day. Because college and high school calendars do not always align, students are responsible for tracking deadlines, paying tuition by the college due dates, properly withdrawing through the college and counselor if needed, and regularly checking their college email through MyGator so they stay informed about important updates and requirements.
Before enrolling, students should confirm that dual credit courses will transfer to their intended college and apply to their chosen major. By staying organized, meeting requirements, and understanding expectations, students can take full advantage of the dual credit program and build a strong foundation for college or future careers.
