As students enter De Soto High School, they are granted the opportunity to initiate their college career a few years ahead through Advanced Placement and dual credit classes. Although both options can provide students with college credit, they differ in several aspects. 

In terms of how they work, AP classes are offered by College Board to provide students the experience of college-level courses while still in high school. At the end of the school year, students are able to take an AP exam that, if they pass, will grant them college credit. The price of the exam ranges from $90 to$140. 

On the other hand, dual credit classes permit students to take college classes while enrolled in high school. If the student passes the class, it will count for both college and high school credit. 

Typically, the student receives the credit if they pass the class with a C or better. However, it differs amongst colleges. 

Currently, DHS offers 12 dual credit courses through JCCC and three through Baker University that are available for students to view on the district website under the Student Services tab. At JCCC, each credit hour is $95, while the price at Baker is $110.

As of now, there are 20 AP classes available to students. However, there are some AP courses that can also be taken for dual credit, such as AP Literature and Composition and AP Language and Composition. 

Dual credit or AP classes may work better for students depending on the college they wish to attend after they graduate. In order to be better informed, students should ensure that the credits provided will transfer to their future school. They are able to do so by checking a university’s website. 

It is important for students to be well informed on the classes they choose to take in high school because it could assist them in the long run as they head to college.