Fast-tracking education, careers: KCTCS dual credit programs help high schoolers earn college credits early

Published on Apr 15, 2026

The Kentucky Community and Technical College System is dedicated to helping today’s youth become tomorrow’s leaders by offering dual credit opportunities to students still in high school.
     Dual credit offer high school-age scholars the opportunity to complete college credits and get a head start on their undergraduate education. Through KCTCS, students can access a catalog of 1,097 dual credit courses, including 15 university-transfer courses, 283 general education offerings and 799 technical education courses.
     Kentucky Department of Education Associate Commissioner Beth Hargis said dual credit programs through KCTCS prepare students not only for today’s workforce, but for tomorrow's, too.
    “Through these pathways, we provide regular, highly skilled training which opens the door to many opportunities, including, but not limited to, potential industry-recognized credentials, post-secondary dual credit, and work-based learning experiences,” Hargis said.
     Claire Myatt, a senior with Monroe County High School is graduating this spring with an associate’s degree after taking dual credit courses through Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College and will be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in English at the University of Kentucky this fall.
    “(Dual credit) pathways allowed me to get to my dreams faster,” Myatt said. “I want to be an attorney, and with the pathway I have taken, I will be able to graduate law school and start working up to two years sooner than the average person pursuing the same career.”
     Taking classes during high school also saved Myatt money on tuition.
     “With dual credit, I can take classes for a fraction of the cost,” Myatt said. “Dual credit classes are an excellent option for so many students. They provide flexibility and a unique learning experience that students could not receive otherwise.”
     As the state’s largest provider of dual credit, KCTCS continues to expand access to affordable, college-level coursework, empowering students to save time, lower tuition costs, and get a head start on their careers. 
     “An increasing number of high school students are jump-starting their education and careers through our colleges while saving substantially. This progress isn’t just benefiting students; it’s a strategic investment in Kentucky’s economic future,” said KCTCS President Ryan Quarles.
     Through KCTCS, dual credit covers up to two general education courses per year for juniors and seniors, totaling four courses per student. Additional dual credit classes are available at half the standard KCTCS tuition rate. The Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship provides funding for two technical education courses in high-demand Kentucky fields each year for all four years of high school.
     For Senior Seth Hurst, his commitment to dual credit courses at Bluegrass Community and Technical College through Estill County High School led him to a co-op opportunity in welding and a future career at Link-Belt, a manufacturer of telescopic and lattice boom cranes for the construction industry.
     “(KCTCS) created an environment where students are encouraged to learn and be prepared for their future,” Hurst said. “Their guidance helped me stay focused. I have gained hands-on experience while still in high school, and the opportunity to work in a real-world environment which will prepare me to transition to a full-time career.”
     Mike Clevenger, director of production for Link-Belt, said he’s spent his career helping others find their path in the work world. Hurst’s transition from a co-op student to a full-time employee with Link-Belt is no exception.
     “My goal as a Link-Belt leader is for Seth to be with us for a lifetime,” Clevenger said.
     Quarles said Myatt and Hurst’s stories are great examples of how KCTCS is dedicated to helping high school students accelerate their education and career paths.
    “By helping students earn college and career credentials earlier, we’re strengthening a more skilled, job-ready workforce that can meet the evolving needs of Kentucky employers,” said Quarles.
     For more information about dual credit options, visit here.