High School to College

CCRC conducts research on programs and policies designed to prepare high school students for college, including programs focused on math, writing, and reading readiness, the transition from high school to college, and early college schools and programs.

One segment of this work focuses on acceleration programs like dual enrollment, which—along with Advanced Placement (AP)—is among the largest and fastest-growing options for high school students who want to get a jump start on their postsecondary degree requirements. CCRC researchers are investigating how such programs affect later outcomes, such as enrollment in college, persistence, and credential completion.

CCRC also studies interventions intended to boost college readiness among underprepared high school students. These reforms, including transition courses and summer bridge programs, dovetail with CCRC’s extensive work on developmental education.

Finally, as colleges advance their guided pathways reforms, they are increasingly reaching down into high schools to help students start exploring their interests and program options and developing a college and career plan. CCRC researchers are studying these types of cross-sector partnerships to understand how community colleges can start supporting students earlier in their educational journey.

Dual enrollment equity pathways (DEEP) is a framework for rethinking dual enrollment as a more equitable on-ramp to college degree programs that prepare underserved students for well-paying, career-path employment in their 20s. Key DEEP practices: