Dual Enrollment: ATC High School Programs
Aiken Technical College’s dual enrollment program for high school students is designed to allow qualified, highly motivated students the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school.
Through dual enrollment, you will:
- Explore career options while earning college credit.
- Enjoy minimal costs to you and your family
- Access resources to help you succeed
Dual Enrollment Opportunities
- General Education/University Transfer
Dual enrollment students can enroll in many general education courses required for degrees at Aiken Tech or four-year colleges and universities. Whether you are pursuing an associate’s degree with us or planning to earn a bachelor’s degree elsewhere, you can get started through dual enrollment. Our courses are transferable and cost much less than most other colleges and universities in the region. Dual enrollment students taking general education courses can get an early start on earning their Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree at Aiken Tech. This means that you can complete the ATC degree and go on to pursue a bachelor’s degree in less time, at a lower cost, and be better prepared for the more rigorous coursework.
- Career Pathways
Students enrolled in dual enrollment may also gain exposure to majors that match their career interests, giving them a head-start on their career or the specialty they wish to pursue in college. Our pathway programs give students the option to pursue in-demand jobs right after high school or to go on to advanced training in highly desirable fields. Available pathways include:
- Cybersecurity Networking (through Aiken County Career and Technology Center)
- Patient Care Technician
- Pre-Health Professions
* NOTE: Program availability varies by school. Check with your counselor about options available at your high school.
- Aiken Early College
Aiken Early College is a unique opportunity for dual enrollment students to graduate from high school with both a high school diploma and an Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree. Students enrolled in this program take courses every semester (fall, spring, and summer) starting the fall of their high school sophomore year through the spring semester of their senior year.
The credits earned are transferable and often fulfill many general education requirements toward a bachelor’s degree. Currently, this option is only available to Midland Valley High School students.
- Technical Advanced Placement
Students attending select high schools may apply to receive Technical Advancement Placement (TAP) credits for specific approved high school courses. TAP credits save students money and time by reducing the number of classes they need upon enrolling in related programs at Aiken Tech. These courses are approved through special agreements with participating high schools.
Paying for College
Aiken Technical College offers an opportunity to receive a quality education at a minimal cost to students and their families. Visit our Tuition and Fees page for current costs. Payment plans may also be available.
In addition, the following funding resource may be available for eligible dual enrollment students. Please contact your school counselor for more information.
Available funding resources:
- South Carolina Lottery Tuition Assistance (SC-LTAP): The SC-LTAP is funded by the State of South Carolina. Funding levels are contingent upon state approval for each academic year, as determined by the S.C. Commission on Higher Education. For more information, including eligibility guidelines and a list of frequently asked questions, visit S.C. Technical College System - Lottery Tuition Assistance.
- South Carolina Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship (SC WINS): SC WINS is a statewide technical college scholarship program that supplements SC-LTAP to help cover tuition, mandatory fees, and required course-related expenses, including electronic books, after all other eligible scholarships and grants have been applied to a student's account. The scholarship is available to students enrolled in approved workforce and career pathway programs that address South Carolina's critical workforce needs. Eligible students must meet residency and program requirements, as well as certain participation criteria, such as being employed, completing a financial literacy course, or performing qualifying volunteer service. For more information and a list of eligibility guidelines, visit SC WINS Scholarship Program.
- Scholarships and Grants: Aiken Technical College may also award institutional or grant-funded scholarships to eligible students. Please speak with your school counselor for more information.
Policies and Procedures
Students participating in the dual enrollment program are students of their high school or home school association and of Aiken Technical College. All ATC policies and procedures apply to dual enrollment participants. Students and their families are encouraged to review the Dual Enrollment Guide, and ATC Academic Catalog and Student Handbook to learn about guidelines and student rights and responsibilities, such as Satisfactory Academic Progress, financial aid, and student conduct.
