News Summary
Rock Hill Schools and Winthrop University have launched a new Business & Leadership Dual Enrollment Program aimed at high school students. This initiative allows students to earn up to 36 college credits while completing their high school education, promoting academic excellence and workforce readiness. The program features courses in written communication, economics, and accounting and has already seen strong interest, with its first cohort comprising 28 students. This collaboration highlights the commitment to innovation in education within the Rock Hill community.
Rock Hill, SC – Rock Hill Schools and Winthrop University launched a new Business & Leadership Dual Enrollment Program on August 12, 2025, aimed at providing local high school students with the opportunity to earn college credits while completing their secondary education. Students can accumulate up to 36 college credit hours by the time they graduate high school, bridging the gap between high school and higher education.
Participants in the program will engage in various courses including written communication, economics, and accounting, allowing them to earn dual credit for both their high school diploma and college degree. Instruction for the program is uniquely structured, taking place on both the Winthrop University campus and at Rock Hill high schools. Students will start their day at the university, where morning classes will occur, and then return to their respective high schools in the afternoon.
The program is open to Rock Hill students beginning in their junior year, with specific academic requirements to maintain enrollment. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 and must achieve a grade of “C” or higher in each prerequisite course to continue in the program. This requirement emphasizes the program’s focus on academic excellence and preparedness for college-level work.
As of the program’s initiation, the first cohort consists of 28 students who have already enrolled, reflecting a strong interest in this educational opportunity. A ceremonial signing and celebration event was held at Winthrop University’s Whitton Auditorium on the inaugural date, marking a successful partnership between the two educational institutions.
In announcing the program, Rock Hill Schools Superintendent emphasized that this initiative demonstrates the district’s commitment to innovation in education and ensuring student success. The program is designed not only to foster academic achievement but also to enhance workforce development in the local community by preparing students for future careers in business and leadership roles.
Winthrop University President pointed out that this partnership is an investment in students’ futures, creating educational pathways that lead to both college and career success. The aim is to provide students with a structured and clear path towards a degree in business administration, setting them up for success in a competitive job market.
This dual enrollment program reflects broader trends in educational collaboration between high schools and universities, focusing on preparing students for the realities of the workforce while enabling them to save time and money on their higher education pursuits.
Program Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Business & Leadership Dual Enrollment Program |
| Launch Date | August 12, 2025 |
| College Credits Offered | Up to 36 college credit hours |
| Eligibility | Juniors from Rock Hill Schools |
| GPA Requirement | Minimum 3.5 |
| Grading Requirement | C or higher in prerequisite courses |
| Courses Offered | Writing, Economics, Accounting, among others |
| Initial Enrollment | 28 students |
| Instruction Locations | Winthrop University & Rock Hill high school campuses |
FAQ
What is the Business & Leadership Dual Enrollment Program?
This program allows high school students to earn college credits while completing their high school education.
How many college credit hours can students earn?
Students can earn up to 36 college credit hours by the time they graduate high school.
Who is eligible for the program?
Rock Hill high school students can join the program as juniors, subject to meeting academic requirements.
What are the academic requirements to remain enrolled?
Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 and achieve a grade of “C” or higher in each prerequisite course.
Where will the classes take place?
Classes will be held on both the Winthrop University campus and at Rock Hill high schools.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Winthrop-Rock Hill Schools Dual Enrollment Program
- Wikipedia: Dual Enrollment
- Charlotte Observer: Election News
- Google Search: Education Initiatives in South Carolina
- Herald Online: Business News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Higher Education
- WSOC TV: Rock Hill Business Leaders
- Google News: Business Education Programs
- Herald Online: Local Business News
- Google Scholar: Dual Enrollment Benefits
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