The Missouri State University-West Plains high school dual credit and dual enrollment programs provide students with an opportunity to supplement their high school curriculum and receive college credit.

Dual credit courses earn high school and college credit. Students who take dual credit courses generally do so at their high school with instructors who meet required qualifications for teaching college-level courses and who have been approved by the University to teach those courses. Students who take dual enrollment courses earn college credit and take those courses either on one of the Missouri State University-West Plains campuses or online from University instructors. To be eligible for either of these, students must meet the following criteria:

Students in an Accredited High School:

1. have completed their sophomore year of high school or are freshmen or sophomores with an ACT composite score at or above the 90^th percentile; and
2. have at least a 3.00 grade point average on a 4.00 scale; and
3. have been recommended for admission by the high school counselor, principal, or superintendent of their school; and
4. have permission from their parents or guardians.

Students Completing High School by Alternative Means (Home School or Non-accredited High School):

1. be at least 16 years of age; and
2. have an official transcript from the high school or correspondence program vendor or documents from the parent required by Missouri State Statute 167.031 including courses/credits completed and date of completion with an overall GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher; or
3. have demonstrated their ability to benefit by achieving an ACT composite score of 18 or higher; and
4. have parental or guardian permission.

If a student believes extenuating circumstances exist, the above eligibility requirements may be appealed to the Dean of Academic Affairs or his/her designee for consideration.

Unless otherwise approved by the Dean of Academic Affairs or his/her designee, the following course load limitations will apply:

1. Dual Credit Course Load will be limited to two classes each semester.
2. Dual Enrollment Course Load will be limited to six credit hours in the summer session and two courses each semester in fall and spring.

Because the University believes in the value of a high school education or its equivalent and the importance of student preparation and readiness, neither dual credit nor dual enrollment students are allowed to take developmental courses since such skills are best learned in the high school setting. High school dual credit and dual enrollment students cannot apply for directed study courses. High school dual credit and dual enrollment students must maintain GPA criteria as outlined in the Scholastic Action section of this catalog.