Student Participation and Performance in Dual-Credit Courses in a Reform Environment

Dual-credit programs are an increasingly popular policy tool of state-driven postsecondary reform, particularly where legislatures and state higher-education boards seek to increase access to higher education and achieve greater collaboration between schools and colleges. This study reports on the role and impact of dual-credit programs in the reform of Kentucky postsecondary education. Student records of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System analysis reveal that more students are enrolling and succeeding in dual-credit courses. Participation rates of students from underserved populations are also increasing, thus indicating the efficacy of Kentucky's policies on dual-credit to help institutions meet the state's reform goals for access and achievement in higher education.