Dual Credits / School College Work Initiative
The Dual Credit program is a School-College Work Initiative (SCWI) that allows students to take college or apprenticeship courses while still in secondary school. Students can earn a credit(s) that count towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and a postsecondary certificate, diploma, degree, or an apprenticeship certification.
The Dual Credit programs' goal is to encourage secondary school students to complete their secondary school education and consider post-secondary education. The program provides opportunities to explore career interests, and it assists students in successfully transitioning to college and apprenticeship programs.
Who might consider the Dual Credit Program?
The Dual Credit Program is intended to encourage students who are currently working on their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) to explore a postsecondary pathway.
The primary focus is for students who are:
- at-risk of not graduating with their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- enrolled in a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program
- enrolled in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP); and/or
- an early school leaver, under the age of 21 years old and near completion of their Ontario Secondary School Diploma
Benefits of Dual Credit Programs
Participating in a dual credit(s) enables students to:
- complete credit(s) towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- earn a college credit(s)
- transition to college or an apprenticeship program
- gain head start on learning and training for career planning
- explore their academic interests before entering college
Program Offerings
Dual Credit program offerings are determined annually.
Instructor Taught Dual Credit
A dual credit taught solely by the Northern College instructor either during the day or after school at a secondary school or Northern College campus.
Team Taught Model
This type of dual credit is taught by both the secondary teacher and the Northern College instruction. Team taught dual credits are taught simultaneously as a secondary school course. Students attend their dual credit course approximately twice a week with the Northern College instructor. These are offered during the day and as night classes.
Ontario Youth Apprenticeship (OYAP) Level 1 Dual Credits
Students are enrolled in a dual credit program leading to an apprenticeship.
Ontario Youth Apprenticeship (OYAP) Level 1 Dual Credits with Oversight
Students are enrolled in a dual credit program leading to an apprenticeship.
SHSM Dual Credits
Single dual credits offered to support the Specialist High Skills Major programs in the board.
College Connections Programs
This program is designed as a re-engagement strategy for disengaged students. Students in the secondary school course take at least one dual credit.
For more information on local dual credit programs, contact your Guidance Counsellor.