Early College

The college and high school work together to align curriculum at the high school to meet the learning objectives, content, and standards of a Triton College credited course. The dual credit course is taught by high school faculty who are qualified to teach at both the high school and college level and enrollment is open to academically talented high school students. Students receive a grade and credit on both their high school and Triton College transcript upon completing the course successfully. Earn a credit, get a college credit free! Speak to your high school counselor for more information.

Triton College has Dual Credit course agreements with the following in-district high school campuses. All agreements are subject to change.

• East & West Leyden High School
• Elmwood Park High School
• Oak Park River Forest High School
• Proviso East High School
• Proviso West High School
• Proviso Math and Science Academy
• Ridgewood High School

Triton College has also partnered with the following out-of-district high schools for select dual credit opportunities in academic programs not offered through their home community college:

• District 211 (Palatine HS, Fremd HS, Conant HS, & Schaumberg HS)
• District 214 (Buffalo Grove HS, Elk Grove HS, Prospect HS, Hersey HS, Rolling Meadows HS, & Wheeling HS)
• J.S. Morton High School (East & West)
• Lyons Township High School
• Maine Township High School (East, West & South)
• Saint Patrick High School

* After graduating high school, out-of-district students interested in completing an Associate of Applied Science or certificate program not offered at their home community college may also be able to receive in-district tuition at Triton College by applying for a Joint Agreement 30 days prior to the start of the semester. *

In order to qualify to enroll in the Dual Credit Program, you will need to follow the steps outlined in the high school registration guidelines for courses being taught at your high school campus, OR follow the Triton College registration guidelines for courses being taught at Triton's campus. More information can also be found on our FAQs page.

High school students can also earn both college and high school credit by taking certain approved courses on Triton’s campus! Each Fall and Spring term a schedule of dual credit courses will be provided to the participating high schools. Students can meet with their counselor to discuss options and qualification requirements before registering with the Dual Credit Department. After the course is completed successfully, Triton and your high school will both award you a grade and credit! Depending on the high school, tuition and/or book costs may be covered by the school. Make sure to contact your high school counselor for their billing policies.

Triton College works with Des Plaines Valley Region high schools to offer over 60 different courses in 14 different programs of study. Participating schools are:

• East Leyden High School
• West Leyden High School
• Elmwood Park High School
• Oak Park River Forest High School
• Proviso East
• Proviso West
• Proviso Math and Science Academy
• Ridgewood High School
• Riverside Brookfield High School

Each Fall and Spring semester, a schedule of college campus and online dual credit courses is published by the Office of Dual Credit. The eligible courses correspond to regional programs of study designed to help students navigate their way to greater success in their college and career goals.

Getting In

1. Complete the Dual Enrollment Application Dual Enrollment Application *Please remember to select Dual Credit/Dual Enrollment as your Academic Program and Dual Enrollee when asked what type of student best describes you*
2. Browse the Triton Course Catalog to view semester course options.
3. Ensure you have met the placement or course prerequisites for the dual enrollment courses you wish to take.
• Take the ACCUPLACER College Placement Exam if needed to fulfill college course placement prerequisites
• Have qualifying placement measures submitted to the College’s Admissions Department if course prerequisites already met through other placement measures
4. Obtain written permission letter from your high school counselor or principal that states you are in good standing with their school and are approved to take the college course you have selected at Triton. Home schooled students may have the permission letter written by their parent or guardian.
5. Bring this letter to the Welcome Center/Admissions office for registration in the main lobby of the B-Building (The Office of Dual Credit does not register Dual Enrollment students). Registration requests can also be submitted to registration@sdtlsw.com for processing. Please make sure to identify your request as a “Dual Enrollment Registration” and include the permission letter.
6. Attend a Virtual New Student Orientation to prepare for the semester ahead.
7. Class Tuition Payment - After registration, students should pay their tuition or make payment arrangements as quickly as possible to avoid being dropped from classes.* Payments can be made at the Cashier’s Office, located in the Student Center, Room B-130, or online through your Triton Portal Account.

Signing up for the Dual Enrollment Program has its perks and benefits:

• Transferable college credit earned from an accredited institution
• Reduction of the number of college classes taken after high school graduation
• Utilization of college resources and services, including the library, computer and academic labs and tutoring services
• Participation in college campus activities
• Courses are offered fall, spring, AND summer; unlike Dual Credit which only offers fall and spring courses

Taking classes on the high school campus can save hundreds of dollars in tuition and books! However, for classes taken on the Triton College campus, you may be responsible for the cost of books, supplies, non-course related fees and transportation to and from college. Fees are subject to change and financial aid is not available for Dual Credit students. Contact your high school counselor for more information.

Participating in the Triton College Dual Credit Program  puts the student at an advantage. At Triton, we know that two credits are better than one. High school students can earn multiple college credits prior to graduating from high school. The Advantages:

• Seamless transition from high school to college
• Reduced cost of enrolling in higher education courses
• Access to college facilities and resources such as tutoring services, computer labs and counseling services

Triton College also has a long history of helping students succeed. Dual Credit students enjoy the advantage of academic support from the community college and its faculty due to the close relationship between the local high school and the college. This local support makes all the difference. Benefits of community college Dual Credit courses include the following:

• Students attend classes at the local college campus or on their high school campus
• Instructors are more accessible
• Class sizes are often smaller, creating a lower teacher/student ratio
• Students have access to college facilities and resources such as 24/7 tutoring services, computer labs, libraries, and counseling services

The Triton College Dual Credit Program can create a new and open experience in your child's academic, social and personal life while they continue to participate in high school sports, clubs or other extracurricular activities. Be aware that the student will most likely miss some of the high school experience due to the additional commitment of taking college courses.

Upon enrollment in Dual Credit, your child will be considered a college student. Your child is expected to conduct themselves as a responsible adult. This includes, but is not limited to, attending class, seeking academic help, and addressing any problems they may have directly with their instructors.

Triton College is required by law to inform students of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which involves keeping student records confidential. Without a student’s written permission, Triton WILL NOT share student records with anyone but the student and appropriate college and high school representatives. Students who wish to share information with their parents must complete the FERPA Release Form below.

Congrats! You've completed registration and now you're all set to prepare for the semester ahead. Our Dual Credit New Student Orientation Guide will get you up-to-speed on student expectations, academic resources, your Triton Student Accounts, and a wealth of other information that will help you navigate a successful and  positive first-time college experience!

All qualified students are issued a MyPortal account where they will be able to access their student email, information about grades, finances and courses. Blackboard is where students will be able to locate specific course information and syllabi for courses they are enrolled in as well as access to online only courses. Please follow the directions here in order to login to your account.

The college credits you receive from Dual Credit are separate from the high school credits earned. In order for your college credits to transfer to your school of choice, you will need to request your official Triton transcript to be sent to that institution and not just your high school transcript. Please contact the Transfer Center for more information. Transcripts may be requested through the Records Department here.

1. APPLY TO TRITON and complete the Undergraduate form
2. Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships (Optional)
3. Submit Official Transcripts & Documents
   • All documents should be dropped off in the Records Office, Room B-220, or mailed from your school. Official college transcripts and ACT scores may also be submitted, if applicable. All incoming transcripts are automatically evaluated.If you have questions or would like to check on the status of an evaluation, contact the Records Office at (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3213 or email lorrainecampbell@sdtlsw.com.
4. Take the Placement Exam (if applicable)
5. Complete the New Student Orientation
6. Register for classes!
   • Registering for classes can be done in-person, over the phone, or through the student portal. Classes fill quickly, so it is important to register early for the best selection of courses and class meeting times. Students who completed orientation online must meet with an advisor to register for class. Advisors are available to all students seeking assistance in course selection and academic planning.
7. Class Tuition Payment
   
   • After registration, students should pay their tuition or make payment arrangements as quickly as possible to avoid being dropped from classes.* Payments can be made at the Cashier’s Office, located in the Student Center, Room B-130. Students receiving Financial Aid will receive additional information about any portion of tuition they may still owe.

Academic Advising Department
Advisors facilitate a smooth transition for incoming students through course placement, registration, academic planning and assistance with obtaining relevant information and services.

Academic Success Center
FREE, individual and group tutoring, mentoring and learning communities, as well as ongoing academic review workshops.

VitaNavis - Career Assessment
Discover majors and in-demand careers and education based on your interests!

Center for Access & Accommodative Services
The Center for Access and Accommodative Services (CAAS) arranges access and academic accommodations for students who submit a completed CAAS Confidential Data form and provide current documentation of a medical condition and/or disability that affects their academic performance.

College Book Store
Locate the required textbook(s) and course materials for your dual credit classes. The bookstore also has a wide selection of school supplies and Triton College clothing and accessories for purchase to show your Triton Trojan Pride!

Educational Technology Resource Center (ETRC)
The ETRC is the student support center for all Online/Blackboard courses. Services include orientations, online tutorials, tutoring, e-mail, telephone, walk-in and Online HELP form.

Library
The mission of the Triton College Library, a Center for Interdisciplinary Engagement, is to provide curriculum-driven resources, instruction, and programs to increase student success and meet the diverse academic and information needs of the college community.

Student Life
The Office of Student Life has something for everyone. From leadership opportunities and community service to social events and entertainment, getting involved is easy! Find something you enjoy or challenge yourself to do something new. Either way, don't let your college years pass you by. GET INVOLVED!

Testing Center
The Triton College Testing Center provides testing services for Triton students, staff, and community members, and adheres to the Professional Standards and Guidelines of the National College Testing Association.

Transfer Center
The Transfer Center provides a variety of services to assist students in the transfer exploration process. The mission of the Triton College Transfer Center is to provide comprehensive support services and resources that will enhance awareness and empower students to transfer into four-year institutions.

Triton encourages students from participating high schools who have completed their sophomore year and up to apply to the program. However, if you are granted special permission from your high school counselor/administrator, you may enroll prior to your junior year.

Ask yourself these questions: Am I interested in earning college credit early and getting a jump on my future career? Do I consistently make decent grades? Do I have good study habits? Can I handle the challenge of a college course? If you answered ‘Yes’ to these questions, the Dual Credit Programs may be right for you. Have a talk with your parents and counselor.

It is recommended that you first speak with your high school counselor regarding what options are available to you through your school and whether you meet the requirements for any courses you may be interested in. From there you will be able to submit an application online or on paper and continue on with the process. 

In order to become eligible for a student status at Triton under the Dual Credit program, you will need to complete a few important steps:

• Speak with your high school counselor regarding program requirements and the early college credit course opportunities available to you
• Complete the Dual Credit Application (Online)
• Ensure you have met the college’s placement or course prerequisites for the dual credit courses you wish to take

*Step-by-step directions for Triton Campus Dual Credit admissions can be found here and directions for admissions in Dual Credit at your high school campus can be found here.

There is a difference. AP courses allow students to take college-level courses taught by a high school teacher, with the potential for students to earn college credit and/or course placement based on the results of an AP exam. Courses for the Dual Credit Program are actual college classes taught by qualified high school instructors. They provide an opportunity to earn college credit and high school credit simultaneously without a post exam.

Dual Credit courses are college level courses that high school students may take either at Triton or their primary high school in which there is a preexisting agreement to award both high school and college credit upon successful completion. Dual Enrollment courses are college courses taken on the college campus by high school students while still enrolled in high school and give college credits but there is no preexisting agreement to award high school credits.

Triton participates in the Illinois Articulation Initiative, a partnership with colleges and universities to assist students in determining what courses will transfer from Triton. If you plan to transfer out-of-state, contact the admissions office of the college or university you are planning to attend to see if the Triton course you are taking will transfer to that institution.

In order for these dual credit course credits to transfer out, you will need to request your official Triton College transcripts to be sent to the school you are applying to through our Records Office. (College credit from Triton is not automatically transferred after completing your high school degree.)

Do you have questions on how Triton classes may be used to fill degree and/or certificate requirements? The Program of study website can provide you with information on programs available at Triton College. Our Transfer Center Transfer Guides can help determine how courses transfer out. For more questions, contact one of our Academic Advisors or your high school counselor.

Depending on the high school, tuition and/or book costs may be covered by the school. Make sure to contact your high school representative for their billing policies. Students are never charged for dual credit courses taken at their high school campus.

Students have access to college support services such as the Triton Library, computer labs and printers, the Academic Success Center for tutoring, Center for Access and Accommodative Services for disability services, degree and academic planning with Academic Advising, and career information through Career Services. Participation in student events, clubs, and organizations is also highly encouraged through Student Life.

Any Triton student must attend classes according to Triton's academic calendar and instructor’s syllabus. Make sure you review Triton’s dates and deadlines for when the college is closed (such as holidays, spring or winter breaks, etc.).

Dual Credit students are responsible for adhering to all of Triton's dates and deadlines surrounding the academic calendar. To withdraw from classes, students must contact faculty and the Dual Credit Director for enrollment changes.

Triton Community College is required by federal law to uphold the FERPA Act, regardless of age, to keep student records confidential. Without the student's permission, Triton cannot share student records with anyone but the student (or appropriate college employees, high school employees, or dual credit instructors).

Should parents wish to view their child’s records, he/she must first complete the third party authorization online through My Triton.

Any high school teacher who wishes to teach a dual credit course at their school will need to meet the qualifications *and* be approved as an adjunct instructor under the Dual Credit Program. For an overview of our approval process; please refer to our Dual Credit Faculty & Course Approval Guide.

Faculty Approval Process

To obtain approval as a dual credit instructor, one must fill out the online application and submit the following credentials to the Dual Credit office for review by the appropriate academic department:

• Cover letter indicating the course(s) for which teaching approval is requested
• Official transcript(s) from each higher education institution attended
• Resumé and a Philosophy of Teaching

Once your online application has been received, we will reach out to you to request your official transcripts and any other required information in order for an interview with the academic dean and chair and/or coordinator to be set up.

Please forward all required information to:
Triton College - Office of Dual Credit
2000 North Fifth Avenue, F-210
River Grove, IL 60171

If you have further questions, please contact the Office of Dual Credit at dualcredit@sdtlsw.com or 708-456-0300, ext. 3382.

New Dual Credit classes are established through an articulation agreement between Triton and the high school via the Dual Credit Course Request Form. The person requesting a new course (typically the high school's department chair or head) needs to inform the Office of Dual Credit of their intention with the request form and then begin discussions with the appropriate Triton chairperson or coordinator in order to ensure the course will align with its Triton counterpart. Once the course has been aligned and the signatures finalized, we will send notice of approval so the course can begin running for its requested start term. For an overview of the course alignment process; please refer to our Dual Credit Course Alignment Guide.

After you were hired on and approved as an adjunct dual credit instructor, you should have been sent your login credentials to access your account in Triton's MyPortal. With those credentials you may follow the Dual Credit Adjunct Faculty Guide to learn more about using your Portal and WebAdvisor accounts.

Of course! This is recommended if you don't like using multiple email accounts and would like to stay up to date on upcoming Triton activities and announcements.

Triton Dual Credit instructors are expected to be able to manage and verify their rosters, submit attendance reports, as well as midterm and final grades just like our regular faculty. For detailed guides on these processes, please review the information for Roster and Grading and Midterm Verification.

A Program of Study is a custom made plan of action that maps out the relevant courses you must or should take in high school to become career ready.

By knowing what classes you need to take in high school, you will eliminate taking unnecessary courses and will be able to focus on those that will prepare you for college courses and your goals.

Yes. There are many choices for you to consider—it all depends on what you want to do down the road. See FAQs for list of participating high schools.

Find your DVR Program of Study, then visit your high school counseling department and ask for more information. They would love to help you figure this all out!

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