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High school students in Alberta will be able to take advantage of more dual credit programs thanks to provincial funding. (Photo: Hartmanc10 | Dreamstime.com)

Funds announced to expand dual credit programs in Alberta

Apr 10, 2024 | 8:26 AM

High school students in Alberta will soon have more options to learn as they transition to post-secondary education.

The Government of Alberta has announced $4.45 million to expand dual credit program offerings in the 2024-25 academic year.

Dual credit programs are optional, career-based courses that students in Grades 10, 11, and 12 can take to earn both high school credits and count towards a post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree.

Education Minister Demetrios Nicholaides says these are important in setting young Albertans up for future success.

“Dual credit programs provide students with meaningful pathways to post-secondary education, trades or directly into the workplace. Expanding these opportunities for students not only brings value to their high school education but also prepares them for success in whichever career they choose,” says Nicholaides.

In 2022-23, more than 50 school districts partnered with post-secondary institutions to offer dual credit programs.

With the new funding, the province estimates that more than 2,100 high school students will be able to enrol.

For the 2024-25 academic year, school authorities can apply for up to $50,000 in funding to create new dual credit courses or up to $100,000 to enhance existing ones.

School authorities will have until May 3 to apply for funding for this year’s stream.

More details on dual credit courses and how school authorities can apply for funding are available on the Government of Alberta’s website.