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Participation in Dual Enrollment (DE) courses allows students to meet requirements for high school graduation while simultaneously earning college credits upon successful completion of the course. DE courses taught at the high school by a credentialed LCPS teacher enable students to earn these credits through agreements with partnering colleges or universities. DE course descriptions list the number of college credits that can be earned.

DE course offerings in LCPS high schools are determined by student interest, existing course offerings, and availability of teachers possessing the endorsements required to teach the course. Not all DE courses will be available at all LCPS high schools. Students should speak with their school counselor to determine which courses are available at their high school. DE courses hold a higher point value and are "weighted" by 1.0 in comparison to regular academic courses.

If a student enrolls in a DE course, they may be required to meet certain admission criteria set forth by the partnering college or university. Students will work directly with their high school to determine what those requirements may be and how to register for that course. DE courses through Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) are available for students in 11th and 12th grades, and students must pass the Virginia Placement Test (VPT) administered by NVCC or by a substitute assessment, such as the PSAT or SAT. In addition, there may be certain prerequisites required for specific courses. Some DE classes may require a tuition payment.

Here is a helpful document for understanding expectations in DE courses - Expectations for DE Courses.

NOVA Dual Enrollment Courses offered at Potomac Falls HS:

• English courses:

  • English 11 DE (cohort) 

  • American Literature DE (cohort)

  • English 12 DE

• Social Sciences (History) courses:

  • US History DE

  • US Government DE

• Science courses:

  • AP Biology DE

  • Physics DE

*Information regarding enrollment in these classes can be found on the Course Selection tab

George Mason University Dual Enrollment course offered at Potomac Falls HS:

• Science Course:

  • Independent Science Research (ISR) DE*

Shenandoah University Dual Enrollment course offered at Potomac Falls HS:

• Elective Course:

  • Teacher Cadet DE