Dual Credit and Exploratory Programs
Online Information Session was on Tuesday, April 8. Click here to access the recording.
Applications for summer and fall dual credit and exploratory courses are now open, and are due May 1.
Please access the applications under "How to Apply".
What are Dual Credit and Exploratory programs?
Dual Credit
Dual-credit programs provide high school students with the opportunity to explore post-secondary education and career pathways while earning credits at both the high school and post-secondary institution. Post-secondary tuition fees are paid by Palliser. Dual-credit studies are available to full-time Palliser students, and are designed primarily for grade 11 and 12 students.
Dual credit helps students to:
- get a jump start on their post-secondary education while still in high school
- complete high school while engaging in meaningful curriculum
- transition to post-secondary studies or move into the world of work
- potentially complete post-secondary with less debt
- Students must be able to accommodate dual-credit courses into their current school and extra-curricular schedules, and be ready to commit to the program for its entire duration, which can range from one to three semesters.
View this slide presentation for a brief Introduction to Dual Credit Programs.
More information for students and parents is on the Alberta Education website.
Exploratory
High school is an opportunity for students to explore and discover passions, interests and potential career pathways helping to assist students to narrow down what post-secondary studies and careers they may pursue beyond high school. Students can choose to take an Exploratory Program as part of their high school learning plan.
Exploratory courses are taught by instructors in the industry and support students in making connections to potential career pathways, alongside the support of a school teacher. These courses are usually taught at a local college or polytechnic.
Students usually earn work experience and /or CTS credits for Exploratory Programs. They do not earn post-secondary credits.
Expectations and withdrawals Palliser recognizes the value of these programs and is happy to cover the cost of tuition. In return, we expect that once students sign their acceptance letter, they are fully committed to completing the course/program. To help ensure commitment, Palliser has implemented a WITHDRAWAL FEE of $200. If students withdraw after they have signed their acceptance letter, they will be charged the $200 withdrawal fee.
How to Apply
The application for Summer and Fall 2025 dual credit and exploratory courses are now open. Click the appropriate link below. Note that students will need to be logged into their Palliser student account to access the form:
Coaldale Prairie Winds Fire and Emergency Services Academy application
General Dual Credit and Exploratory Course application
Please read this page carefully before completing the application form.
1. Find a program that is a good fit for you.
Does it match your interests?
Are you on track to meet the prerequisites and co-requisites?
Check the delivery method, schedule and location to make sure it will work for you. Delivery methods include online asynchronous, online asynchronous, in person or a blend of any of those delivery methods.
Do you have time when you factor in your other courses and extracurricular commitments?
Check the calendar - you are responsible to participate in class activities and submit assignments and tests as scheduled, even when they fall on days your high school doesn't have class.
Consider your commitment level. Once you sign your acceptance letter, you are expected to follow through and complete the course. Withdrawals are subject to a $200 withdrawal fee.
2. Complete the online application form.
Fill it in yourself. You must use your Palliser account to access the form. No one should apply on your behalf (including your parent). Do not use AI to generate your answers.
Your references should be adults not related to you. One must be a teacher.
Follow the instructions to submit your application by the stated due date.
3. Your application will be reviewed by the Off Campus Programs Committee. Students will be selected based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to:
attendance record
marks
references
suitability for the program
overall schedule
4. Some programs may require applicants to participate in a brief interview.
5. You will receive notification whether or not you have been selected.
6. If you have been selected:
Sign and submit the acceptance letter acknowledging your commitment to the program by the required date. This also needs to be signed by your parent or guardian
Register with the appropriate post-secondary institution.
Arrange transportation to and from any on-campus classes.
Purchase any required textbooks and materials.
Participate fully in the program.
7. NEW: Withdrawal Fee
Once they have submitted their acceptance letter, students are expected to be fully committed to completing their course/program.
If a student withdraws after they have submitted their acceptance letter, they will be charged the $200 withdrawal fee.
Dual Credit Course List - Summer and Fall 2025
As details are confirmed, list will be updated and links to course details will be added.
The application for summer and fall courses will be open on April 9, and will be due May 1, 2025.
Previously Offered Dual Credit Courses
Please note that the details linked on the information sheets applied to previous semesters and may no longer be valid.
Dual Credit Course List - 2024-25
Dual Credit Course List - 2024-25 (semester two only)
Ginny Bergsma, Off Campus Teacher Email
County Central High School, Noble Central School, Picture Butte High School, Coalhurst High School, Prairie Winds High School, Palliser Beyond Borders
Charlene Foster, Off Campus Teacher Email
Brant Christian School, Calgary Christian High School, Calgary Islamic School, Heritage Christian Academy, Master's College, National Sports School