Dual & Concurrent Enrollment Orientation

Dual Enrollment vs. Concurrent Enrollment

Understanding the Difference

The terms "dual enrollment" and "concurrent enrollment" are often used interchangeably, which can cause some confusion. At College of the Siskiyous (COS), however, these terms have distinct meanings.

At COS, dual enrollment refers to college courses offered at local high schools, taught by qualified high school instructors who have been approved to teach COS curriculum. Students enrolled in these courses earn both high school and college credit simultaneously.
In contrast, concurrent enrollment refers to high school students—often called “K12” or “special admit” students—who take a college course taught by a COS instructor, either online or on a COS campus.

Summary:

Dual Enrolled Student: Enrolled in a COS course offered at the high school, taught by a high school instructor.
Concurrently Enrolled Student: Enrolled in a COS course online or on campus, taught by a COS instructor.

While COS makes this distinction, it is common for the general term dual enrollment to be used when referring to both types of enrollment. The terminology can be complex—even for college staff—so please reach out if you have questions.