Vol State partners with area high schools to help students earn college credit before graduation. Through Dual Enrollment, juniors and seniors take college courses—often at their own high school—while completing their diploma. Middle College High School offers a more immersive option, letting students earn a high school diploma while completing significant college coursework toward a degree.
Dual Enrollment
Dual Enrollment lets high school juniors and seniors earn college credit and high school credit for the same course. Courses are mainly taught at the student's own high school during the regular school day, following the high school calendar — though students in some school systems, including homeschool associations, can take courses on Vol State's campus or online with their high school's approval. Course options include general education core classes as well as career and technical education courses. To enroll, students need a minimum 2.0 GPA (or qualifying ACT/ACCUPLACER scores) and approval from both a parent or guardian and the high school. The Tennessee Dual Enrollment Grant helps offset tuition costs for eligible students.
Middle College High School
Middle College High School is a more immersive option, offered through partnerships between Vol State and local school districts, including Sumner County, Robertson County, and Putnam County Schools. Students take classes on Vol State's campus and can graduate with both a high school diploma and a Vol State associate degree, often at little to no cost. The program suits students who thrive in a more independent, college-like learning environment with a flexible schedule. Eligibility requirements vary by school district—contact your county's Middle College program to learn more.
