LSCPA Dual Credit

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Frequently Asked Questions

Parents

Tuition for dual credit courses at Lamar State College Port Arthur is $45 per credit hour. A three-credit course is typically $135, far less than a standard university course. Some high school districts fully or partially cover these costs, while others leave payment to families. Students should also budget for textbooks, digital learning platforms, or lab fees depending on the course. Waivers or financial assistance may be available in certain situations, so families are encouraged to ask their counselor about district agreements and support.

Yes. Grades earned in dual credit courses are factored into both the high school GPA and the college GPA. Strong performance boosts both, but poor performance can lower them. This is why monitoring progress and seeking help early is so important.

Transfer rules are determined by each university. While many private and out-of-state schools accept LSCPA credits, families should confirm directly with the admissions office of the intended school. LSCPA advisors can provide documentation, syllabi, or course descriptions to support the transfer evaluation.

Students may withdraw from a dual credit course by following LSCPA’s official withdrawal process. The withdrawal deadline is firm, and failure to withdraw properly can result in a failing grade on the transcript. Parents and students should work with both the high school counselor and LSCPA advisor before making this decision.

Students

Most dual credit courses are part of the Texas Core Curriculum, which means they transfer directly to all Texas public colleges and universities. For example, English Composition, U.S. History, College Algebra, and Government all satisfy core requirements at Lamar University, Sam Houston State University, and Texas State University. Workforce or technical courses may not transfer as academic credit but can still provide industry-recognized credentials. Students applying to private or out-of-state institutions should confirm transfer policies with those schools. LSCPA advisors can guide students through transfer equivalency charts and help ensure that credits fit into degree plans.

  • Advising and career planning for academic and workforce pathways
  • Tutoring labs and writing/math centers staffed by qualified tutors
  • Gates Memorial Library with physical resources and online databases
  • Technology support for MyLSCPA, Blackboard, and student email
  • Student ID card (P#) for labs, study spaces, and campus resources

In addition, high school counselors partner closely with LSCPA staff to provide academic monitoring and intervention if students struggle.

Dual credit courses are college-level classes with more independent reading, writing, and projects. Instructors expect higher critical thinking and more self-directed learning. Support such as tutoring, advising, and direct communication with instructors helps students adapt and prepares them for university or career-training expectations.

Dual credit is designed to fit into the regular high school schedule. Many classes are taught on the high school campus during the day; others are online or on the LSCPA campus. Students can still do sports, band, clubs, and other activities. Time management is key.

Yes. Students can combine academic courses that transfer to universities (English, Government, History, Math, etc.) with workforce courses such as Welding, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), or Business Computer Applications, depending on their goals.

Dual credit grades appear on both the high school transcript and the permanent college record. If struggling, students should contact the instructor, high school counselor, or LSCPA advisor immediately. Tutoring and supports are available, and students may withdraw before the deadline to avoid a failing grade.

  1. Meet with your high school counselor to select appropriate courses
  2. Complete the ApplyTexas application to Lamar State College Port Arthur
  3. Submit required documents: transcript, residency form, test scores, parent/guardian approval
  4. Pay tuition (or confirm district coverage)
  5. Receive your LSCPA student ID (P#) and log in to MyLSCPA, Blackboard, and student email

Yes. Dual credit students are official LSCPA students with a college transcript and must follow college policies, including grading standards, attendance requirements, and codes of conduct.

Most students must take the TSIA2 to demonstrate readiness in reading, writing, and math. Certain SAT, ACT, PSAT, or STAAR EOC scores can provide exemptions. Counselors help students register for and interpret test results.

School Districts

High school students in grades 9–12 may participate if they meet college readiness standards. This is usually demonstrated through the TSIA2 exam, SAT, ACT, PSAT, or STAAR EOC scores. Each district determines which grade levels and students may enroll in specific courses. The high school counselor will guide students through eligibility and testing requirements.

This varies by district agreements, but motivated students can earn up to 30+ college credit hours during high school. Some students graduate with a full semester or even a year of college completed, significantly reducing the time and cost of earning a degree.