UNK’s dual enrollment program gives high schoolers a head start
KEARNEY – Ty Buescher isn’t waiting until college to tackle advanced science classes.
The Kearney High School senior is already earning those credits through the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s dual enrollment program, which allows students to take courses that count toward both their high school diploma and future degree.
“It’s definitely a challenge, but it’s a fun challenge,” said Buescher, who participates in football, wrestling, FFA and SkillsUSA at Kearney High. “After this semester, I’ll have two of my required chemistry classes done, so once I get to college I can focus on the next step. It will definitely help alleviate some stress knowing I took care of those classes in high school.”
By the time he graduates, Buescher will have several college credits in multiple subjects under his belt – saving both time and money as he prepares for a career in physical therapy.
UNK’s dual enrollment courses are offered at about one-third the cost of standard in-state tuition – just $75 per credit hour – and some school districts provide financial assistance for qualifying students. The Access College Early Scholarship, a state-funded program, also covers tuition and fees for low-income high school students who enroll in these college courses.
“Why not take advantage of it?” Buescher said. “The opportunity to complete classes for a cheaper price, with teachers and classmates I already know, makes it even better.”
Pathway to college success
UNK’s dual enrollment partnerships extend well beyond city limits. Nearly 500 students from 10 partner schools across Nebraska currently participate, taking advanced courses in history, biology, chemistry, Spanish, art, teacher education, English and math.
Allisha Melroy, who became UNK’s director of dual enrollment in July, calls the program a “win-win” for both students and schools.
“It gives students the ability to earn college credit in a really economical way but also in a comfortable space where they can have the guidance of their high school teacher,” said Melroy, who taught high school English, speech and journalism for 21 years before joining UNK. “They get an introduction to college and the rigor of this coursework in an environment they’re already familiar with.”
Beyond the immediate savings, Melroy sees long-term benefits for everyone involved. The experience helps high schoolers adjust to college-level expectations while also strengthening relationships between UNK departments and area educators.
“It’s good for kids first and foremost, but it’s also good for colleges to make those connections with teachers,” she said. “It’s a bridge that helps students transition more smoothly into higher education.”
Supporting students and teachers
At Kearney High School, science teacher Alison Klein has seen firsthand how dual enrollment courses prepare students for what’s next. She’s taught UNK-affiliated chemistry classes for seven years, working closely with university faculty to ensure her curriculum mirrors college-level coursework.
Klein “strongly encourages” students to consider these advanced placement classes, especially if they’re interested in STEM or health care careers, so they can “hit the ground running” in college.
“High school is about training for the marathon of life, and your senior year is not a time to let up on training,” she said. “Being exposed to coursework at the collegiate level is only going to give them evidence that they’re ready for college. No matter what field they’re interested in, I want them to be successful when they step on campus.”
Kearney High currently offers a total of 10 dual enrollment courses through its partnership with UNK, covering topics such as art foundations, academic writing and research, world history, American history and Spanish.
Klein teaches two sections of AP chemistry for seniors. She says UNK’s support makes the experience rewarding for educators, too. Dual enrollment instructors receive access to the university’s Center for Teaching and Learning and professional development opportunities, along with compensation based on student enrollment.
“I’m really grateful that we have this partnership with UNK,” Klein said. “They’ve been so supportive, and it’s really awesome that we have this opportunity for students to get a feel for college-level coursework.”
Expanding the opportunities
Nearly four months into her new position, Melroy is focused on growing the dual enrollment program, with plans to expand offerings and add new subjects such as criminal justice and cybersecurity.
Her goal is to increase participation by adding new schools to the program and helping current partners certify more instructors to teach dual enrollment courses. Typically, dual enrollment teachers must have a master’s degree in their subject area or at least 18 graduate-level credit hours in the content area.
By encouraging more teachers to earn these credentials, Melroy hopes to open new opportunities for students who may not currently have access to college-level classes in their high schools.
“The more certified teachers we have, the more courses we can offer,” Melroy said. “That means more students can take advantage of these opportunities without leaving their communities.”
Melroy also sees this expansion as a way to strengthen UNK’s recruitment pipeline. She’s working closely with the university’s admissions team and department chairs to turn dual enrollment participation into full-time enrollment down the road.
“It’s given us the ability to create these pathways – whether it’s teacher education, math or another field – where students can identify an interest and connect with UNK early on,” she said. “My hope is that as we see the student numbers increase and the number of schools increase, we will also see those pathways to UNK increase.”
Ultimately, her mission is to make dual enrollment accessible and impactful for both students and teachers.
“It’s a great way for educators to earn extra money and for schools to reward those teachers who are doing a great job in their classrooms,” Melroy said. “They get to focus on what they love most – teaching their content – while helping students take that next step toward college.”
For students like Buescher, that head start means stepping onto campus with confidence – possibly in his hometown.
“UNK is definitely one of my top choices,” he said. “I’ll already know what college-level classes are like, and I’ll be ready for whatever comes next.”
UNK Dual Enrollment Partners
Aurora High School
Central City High School
Crete High School
Elwood High School
Gering High School
Gibbon High School
Kearney Catholic High School
Kearney High School
Lexington High School
Shelton High School