How University-Affiliated Online High Schools Work:
A growing number of
brick-and-mortar universities are offering online high school programs.
University-affiliated programs such as Stanford’s
EPGY School and University of Oklahoma High School offer students anywhere in the nation
the opportunity to earn a diploma completely online. Although these
online high schools vary in curriculum and cost, most
university-affiliated programs are regionally accredited and are highly
regarded.
Students attending university-affiliated online high schools
are often permitted to take some college-level courses through their
school's regular distance learning program.
University-Affiliated Online High School Accreditation:
The majority of university-affiliated programs are regionally
accredited, the most widely accepted form of accreditation.
Some newer schools may still be seeking accreditation or may have a
different form of accreditation. Before enrolling in any program, be
sure to find out for yourself.
University-Affiliated Online High School Costs:
University-affiliated high schools tend to be expensive.
Stanford’s gifted-student program, for example, costs a
daunting $13,000 per year. It is possible to find schools that charge
less than $150 per credit. The University of Oklahoma High School costs
only $1,725 per year ($150 / credit).
University-Affiliated Online High School Admissions:
Since university-affiliated programs are not publicly funded, school
officials can choose their own admissions policies. Some programs have
extremely rigorous standards requiring essays, interviews, test scores,
transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Other online high schools
have open enrollment policies allowing any student to begin courses
immediately.
University-Affiliated Online High School Pros:
Enrolling in a university-affiliated high school can be a smart choice
for college-bound students seeking a diploma from a reputable source.
Many of these schools provide services students can’t find
elsewhere. The opportunity to take college courses as a dual-enrollment
student is particularly appealing for advanced pupils. In some cases,
it may even be possible to graduate with a year of college general
education requirements completed.
University Affiliated Online High School Cons:
On the downside, university-affiliated schools can be extremely
expensive. Students who are behind in credits or have difficulty
working alone may find some of these programs too difficult. Gaining
admittance to some of the more well-known schools can be time consuming
and may require several weeks of planning.
Profiles of University Affiliated High Schools:
There are many university-affiliated high schools to choose from.
Some profiles can be found in the List of University-Affiliated Online High Schools.