More than 700 high school students earn college credit at Nicolet

Nicolet College is proud to announce a successful 2023-24 year for its dual credit program, with 708 high school students enrolled in 3,210 credits.

Of those 708 high school students, 55 students earned technical certificates and diplomas, in nine different academic program areas, including welding, nursing assistant, and EMT, according to a Nicolet press release.

These achievements showcase the diverse and comprehensive nature of the dual credit offerings at Nicolet, the release states.

The Start College Now program is a key part of this success because it allows high school juniors and seniors to take post-secondary courses at Nicolet. Those students earn both high school and college credits, with tuition and materials costs covered by the school districts, the release states.

Kelsi Beran is a junior at Rhinelander High School and has already earned 12 credits at Nicolet College.

“I am currently pursuing a degree as a registered nurse, and I have just completed my first two semesters of prerequisite nursing classes,” Beran said. Thanks to Start College Now, when Beran graduates from high school next year, she will be on track to begin the core Nursing program.

The Transcripted Credit program also provides a pathway for high school students to access college level courses. High school teachers, equipped with college resources and mentorship, deliver full college courses to students. Students earn college credits, while also receiving high school credits, at no cost. This cost-neutral option benefits both students and schools.

“I offer transcripted credit courses because it gives students an opportunity to see what college courses are like and to earn college credit for the work they are doing in high school,” said Mischell Fryar, a business education teacher at Rhinelander High School. 

“For many students, taking a college course from their high school classroom seems less scary and allows them to build some academic confidence for their next level of education.”

Nicolet College also offers contracted courses, allowing students to receive college-level instruction from college instructors. High school and technical colleges partner in these contracts.

“These programs are designed to save students time and money while jumpstarting their post-secondary goals,” said Nicolet College Dual Credit Coordinator Sarah Gruber. “We are incredibly proud of the dedication and hard work of our students, and we look forward to continuing to provide these valuable opportunities.”

For more information about dual credit opportunities during the 2024-2025 school year, contact Sarah Gruber at [email protected] or call 715-365-4565.