Pre-College Credit program gives high school students a boost

Riverside, Calif. (Oct. 9, 2023) – The Pre-College Credit program at California Baptist University gives high school students the opportunity to invest in their tomorrow today by earning college credit. And the first course is free! 

These online courses, offered every eight weeks, are available to eligible high school sophomores, juniors and seniors.  

Each course is asynchronous, so students can access course materials — lectures, readings and assignments — on their own time. Courses in business, art, English, history, psychology and more are available and give students a jump start on their college coursework. 

Dr. Yvonne Thai, professor of sociology, has taught Introduction to Sociology (SOC 213) and has had high school students in the course. She said the Pre-College Credit program is a wonderful opportunity for students who are interested in pursuing a college education. 

“Some students use the opportunity to test the waters, so to speak, to get a feel for the type of programming CBU offers,” Thai said. 

The program allows high school students to learn from a college professor and be among college students, while still in high school.  

“Some of my dual enrolled students are exceptionally articulate and hardworking, and I have been very impressed with the work they produce,” Thai said. “I hope to see more dual enrolled students in future classes and connect with them should they decide to enroll at CBU for their undergraduate or graduate studies!” 

Dr. Ed Garrett, professor of sport and performance psychology, has had high school students in the General Psychology (PSY 213) course. 

“I find that many times the high school students expect more of a challenge knowing it's a college course. At the same time, it provides me with an opportunity to help these students engage in the learning process,” Garrett said. “It's a great opportunity for students to learn how to take a college class and see what university professors expect.” 

In surveys, high school students praised the PCC program. Here are a few anonymous comments: 

“It made me want to attend more because of the kindness of the staff and the professors as well as the ease and format of the classes. … It showed me how committed the professors are to their students and the patience they have.” 

“Keep the program. It gives high school students confidence that they will succeed at CBU.” 

“I found the dual enrollment program to be very useful and helped me start my college studies on a positive note!” 

Application deadline is Oct. 23 for classes that begin Oct. 30.  

For more information or to apply, go to https://calbaptist.edu/campaigns/pcc/