Start college early — 100% online.
Live anywhere, learn everywhere. Earn high school and college credit online at the same time. Students outside of Minnesota can earn both high school and college credit while still in high school. Get a head start on college — wherever you are!
What is Dual Credit Online?
Dual Credit Online allows students at public or private high schools outside of Minnesota to take college courses from Saint Mary’s. You’ll earn both high school and college credit at the same time, while getting a jump start on your future.
Program highlights
- 100% online coursework
- Earn Saint Mary’s college credits
- Taught by Saint Mary’s faculty
- Credits appear on an official Saint Mary’s transcript
- Credits transferable to most colleges and universities
Eligibility
- High school juniors or seniors
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 or counselor recommendation
- Academic readiness determined by high school administration
- Approval from the high school and parent or guardian
What you’ll take
Build a strong foundation that prepares you for success, with courses like:
- Language arts
- Math
- Science
- Social studies
- And other elective courses
Finish what you started — at Saint Mary’s
You’ve already earned Saint Mary’s college credit. Whether you choose the traditional undergraduate experience in Winona or continue with an online bachelor’s degree through the School of Advancing Studies, you can build on the credits you’ve already earned.
When you enroll at Saint Mary’s after high school, you’ll enjoy:
- A seamless transition to full-time college
- Familiar faculty, learning platforms, and expectations
- The opportunity to graduate on time — or even early
- A community that already knows and supports you
- A $1,000 annual scholarship, renewable for up to four years, exclusively for former high school dual credit students who complete their degree at Saint Mary’s undergraduate College in Winona
FAQ for students and parents
What is Dual Credit Online?
Dual Credit Online allows qualified public or private high school juniors or seniors not living in Minnesota to take college-level courses for both high school and college credit. Minnesota residents may take these same courses through the state-funded PSEO program.
How much does an online dual credit course cost?
Tuition is $440 per college credit. All required books and/or equipment are covered by the State of Minnesota and are to be returned at the end of the semester.
Can I use the credits toward a bachelor’s degree?
Yes. When you successfully complete a course at Saint Mary’s, you receive full academic credit that is applied directly to your official Saint Mary’s transcript. Because Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is regionally accredited, these credits meet high academic standards and may be used to continue your studies at Saint Mary’s as you work toward your degree. Credits are also broadly transferable to other postsecondary institutions, though transfer policies vary by school.
Can I transfer these dual credits to Saint Mary’s?
If you enroll at Saint Mary’s after high school:
- Your credits apply directly to your Saint Mary’s degree
- You’ll already be familiar with professors and support resources
- You will qualify for scholarships and admission advantages
- You could graduate sooner and with less debt
What’s expected of Dual Credit Online students?
- Follow all university academic policies and deadlines
- Communicate with instructors and advisers
- Take responsibility for your learning and performance
- Demonstrate readiness and responsibility for a college-level environment
Who is eligible for Dual Credit Online at Saint Mary’s?
Students must:
- Be enrolled in a non-Minnesota high school. Minnesota students may take these courses through the state’s PSEO program.
- Be in 11th or 12th grade
- Meet Saint Mary’s academic criteria, minimum 3.0 GPA
- Be approved by their high school and parent or guardian
Where are Dual Credit Online courses taken? What is the format?
All classes are delivered 100% online, allowing students to take classes from anywhere. Classes are asynchronous, meaning that you can log in anytime to complete your weekly assignments (there are no live lectures or meeting times). All classes are available in an 8-week format.
How do I apply for Dual Credit Online at Saint Mary’s?
- Submit the online admission application
- Provide a high school transcript
- Meet with your high school adviser to select course
- Receive approval from your high school counselor
What are the benefits of Dual Credit Online?
- Get a head start on your college degree
- Reduce your future college tuition costs
- Experience real college coursework early
- Strengthen your college applications
- Build confidence and academic readiness
Are there orientation and support resources for Dual Credit Online students?
Yes, Saint Mary’s offers support from the start. We provide academic advising, access to tutoring, online digital library, writing resources and assistance, and an orientation to help high school students ensure success in college-level courses.
Do parents have automatic access to students' records?
No. Due to FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), parents or guardians cannot access a student’s college records without the student’s written permission.