Have You Heard of Dual Enrollment?
At Northpoint, we’re committed to helping future-ready students find their path after graduation. We understand that every student’s journey looks different—some are college-bound, some are excited about trade schools, and others are eager to jump straight into the workforce. Whatever their goal, we’re here to provide the resources, guidance, and skills to help them get there.
One opportunity we offer for college-curious kids is dual enrollment. This program allows students to earn college credits while still in high school, giving them a taste of higher-level academics without the burden of tuition. It’s a great way for them to get a head start on a degree or just explore options without committing.
How does dual enrollment work?
Dual enrollment lets high school students earn college credits through partnerships with the University of New Mexico (UNM) and Central New Mexico Community College (CNM). Students attend classes on college campuses, experiencing college life firsthand while still having access to their high school teachers for academic support when needed.
What makes Northpoint special is that we count these college classes toward core high school credits. That means kids don’t have to double up on work—they’re earning credits for both high school and college at the same time.
Is dual enrollment right for me?
While dual enrollment is an incredible opportunity, it’s not for everyone. College level courses can be academically demanding, and the social environment is quite different from high school. Some students might want to focus on finishing high school before diving into college-level work, and that’s perfectly fine.
But for those who are ready for the challenge, dual enrollment offers significant benefits. Tuition and books are fully covered, so students can earn college credits without taking on financial burdens. Some kids might even be ready to enter the workforce right after high school with an associate degree or certificate. Others can transfer those credits toward a four-year degree, giving them a strong starting point.
How do I sign up for dual enrollment?
If dual enrollment sounds like a good fit, students should talk to their sponsor teacher. Our staff will guide them through the process—whether it’s taking the Accuplacer Exam (which determines the right class level), choosing classes from the course catalog, or creating an academic schedule for the semester.
And if you’re not already a Northpoint student, you can apply online to join us. As a tuition-free charter school serving students from across the Albuquerque area, we offer flexible scheduling, tech-based learning, and more dual enrollment opportunities than other schools. We’re here to help you take charge of your education and reach your goals.
