(12/04/2024) Increasing academic rigor with college-level courses for 381 high school students has resulted in 1,895 credits and associated value through participation in the University of Minnesota’s College in the Schools program (CIS) during the 2023-24 school year.

Why it matters: Students can get a money-saving running start into college by earning credit along with gaining exposure and rigor to challenging college coursework. Participation can help students make decisions about their post-secondary plans and how college can help them reach their goals.   

Multiple benefits: With tuition at the U of M set at $557.55 per credit last year, the tuition-free credits earned by Anoka-Hennepin students in CIS classes equate to more than $1,043,355 in saved tuition fees. In addition, CIS enjoys strong support from participants with 9 of 10 students involved recommending it to others. Credits earned are recognized by the University of Minnesota along colleges and universities across the state and nation. 

Other post-secondary options: In addition to CIS, hundreds of Anoka-Hennepin students earn college credits through Advanced Placement (AP) courses, Articulated Credit (AC) courses, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB), Post Secondary Enrollment Option (PSEO), and at the district’s Secondary Technical Education Program (STEP).

For more information about CIS, students can talk to their counselors or visit the CIS website.