Del Mar College’s Dual Enrollment Program has experienced a remarkable surge in student participation, drawing increasing interest from high school students eager to jumpstart their college education. This year, the program has seen an 8% increase in student enrollment, with more than 3,100 new students since last year’s fall semester.
A Head Start for High School Students
Logan Farrell, a Richard King High School senior, is just one of many students benefiting from Del Mar’s dual credit courses. Having started her journey as a sophomore, Logan is now enrolled in four dual credit classes, including Sociology, College Algebra, Anatomy, Physiology, and Composition 2. She reflected on her experience and shared, “I think it’s just helping us all get to experience a college-level course.”
Moreover, her ambition to pursue a career in nursing at Baylor University motivated her decision to take these dual credit courses. According to Logan, these classes have significantly better prepared her for the academic challenges that lie ahead. She emphasized, “Being in a college classroom and seeing what that’s like really helps us prepare for college-level work as high school students.”
Rapid Growth and Student Success
Del Mar College’s Associate Vice President of Continuing Education and Off-Campus Programs, Dr. Leonard Rivera, expressed his excitement over the program’s growth. Rivera said, “We’ve seen a significant increase, and we’re thrilled to serve the students of South Texas.” Since last year, the college has seen a rise from 2,761 students to more than 3,100, marking an impressive 8% growth in just one year.
The program collaborates with over 50 schools across the Coastal Bend area, offering students diverse courses. From health care to process technology and welding, students have access to over 175 different programs that can help advance their education.
One of the critical benefits of Del Mar’s dual enrollment program is that it’s free, with all credits being transferable to public universities. “Providing this opportunity by way of dual enrollment allows students to graduate high school with a credential of value,” Rivera emphasized.
Expanding Opportunities for Students
Corpus Christi Independent School District (CCISD) has also seen a significant increase in dual credit enrollment, with a 27% rise in students participating. Dr. Sandra Clement, CCISD Deputy Superintendent, praised the collaboration between the school district and Del Mar College. “This partnership is opening doors for our students and setting them up to succeed,” she said. The program offers students—particularly those from low-income backgrounds—a chance to explore various career paths while still in high school.
Dr. Clement stressed that the free nature of the program plays a crucial role in giving students from all walks of life an opportunity to gain confidence in their academic abilities and explore potential career options.
Del Mar’s Enrollment Boom
In addition to the increase in dual credit participation, Del Mar College has seen a rise in overall enrollment. The college enrolled 10,772 students last fall. This year, that number has exceeded 12,000, marking a 12% increase in total enrollment.
The rapid growth of the Dual Enrollment Program and overall enrollment at Del Mar College reflects the institution’s commitment to offering accessible, high-quality education across South Texas.