Does Dual Enrollment Influence High School Graduation, College Enrollment, Choice, and Persistence?

• In Event: The Exploration of Varied Pathways Into Postsecondary Education Institutions

Abstract

This study examines relationships between dual enrollment and high school graduation, college enrollment, college choice (2-year or 4-year), and persistence in college among Nebraska’s 2018 high school graduating class. Using propensity score matching, we found that taking at least one dual enrollment course was positively associated with graduating from high school, going to college, choosing a four-year college over a two-year college, and re-enrolling in college in the second year. The positive association was greater for racial minority students, first-generation students, and low-income students. Our results suggest that dual enrollment can improve access, equity, and success for college enrollment and degree attainment.

Authors

• Jungmin Lee, University of Kentucky

• Hyun Kyoung Ro, University of North Texas

• Hongwook Suh, Nebraska Department of Education