Bluefield University Logo



Accelerate Your Success &

Earn an Associate’s Degree

while in high school!

100% online program with 8 week terms.
Affordable at only $100 per credit hour.
Available as early as your sophomore year in high school. Student must be at least 16 years of age.
Homeschool friendly program.

“The BU early college program is certainly an amazing opportunity for high school students. I have been able to tackle several of my needed high school credits while getting college credit at the same time, eliminating the number of general education credits that I still need in college. In the
eight courses that I’ve done through the BU early college program, each has been both academically challenging and yet, not beyond the ability of a disciplined high schooler. While it is a pace to adjust to, I very much appreciate the professor’s involvement and intentionality even though it is an online program.”

Abigail Kimzey

Early college student, Blacksburg, VA

“Bluefield has been my go-to place for early college enrollment for my children. I have appreciated the helpfulness and ease of registering and attending classes. My children have learned in a good Christian environment while being able to complete several courses for a very reasonable price. I tell everyone about Bluefield University and how much it has blessed our family.”

Amy Fluharty

Early college parent, Fredericksburg, VA

General Education Offerings for Online Early College

(Associate Degree)

Behavioral OR Social Science (Choose One)

  • Principles of Macroeconomics
  • Intro to Criminal Justice
  • Intro to Psychology
  • American Government & Politics
  • State & Local Government

Career Pathways

  • Career Pathways I – (Freshman Exp)
  • Career Pathways II – (Freshman Exp)
  • Career Pathways III – (Sophomore Exp)
  • Career Pathways IV – (Sophomore Exp)

Christian Studies

  • Biblical Perspectives
  • Developing the Christian Mind

Composition

  • Intro to the Writing Process
  • Argumentative & Analytical Writing

Fine Arts/Humanities (Choose Two)

  • Art Appreciation
  • Music Appreciation
  • Theater Appreciation
  • Literature Course (Choose One)
    • Literature Appreciation
    • American Literature
  • History Course (Choose One)

        Health

        • Fitness Fundamentals
        • Personal Wellness

        History (Choose One)

        • World Civilization I
        • World Civilization II
        • United States History I
        • United States History II

          Math (Choose One)

          • College Algebra
          • Mathematics of Finance
          • Introduction to Statistics

            Science (Choose One)

            • Human Biology
            • The Science of Chocolate
            • Physical Science

            Speech

            • Fundamentals of Speech

            How to Apply:

            1. Complete the application online
              • Create an account
              • Select the appropriate application
            2. Submit a letter of permission from one of the following:
              • High school principal
              • Guidance counselor
              • Homeschool parent
            3. Submit a high school transcript
              • Homeschool transcripts must show a cumulative GPA

            For More Information:

            Contact Admissions at [email protected] or 800.872.0175

            For Frequently Asked Questions:

            Early College Questions? We Have Answers.

            Do I only apply once?

            • No. Students must apply each academic year for the fall semester and submit the necessary documents.

            Do I have to take the classes specified in the Associate’s Degree tracks as they are listed on the information sheet?

            • No. Students may take any of the courses that are offered in a given term.

            Where do I find the textbook listing, and where do I purchase the books?

            • Log in to myBU, and under the “Student” tab, you will find a list of the textbooks required (if any) for each course. Students are responsible for purchasing their own books.

            How long is a semester?

            • Our semesters are divided into two 8-week terms.

            Is there an orientation?

            • Yes. Students can attend an orientation session explaining how to access courses, register for classes, and answer other questions.

            Where can I find a course description?

            Does the student need to take the SAT or ACT in order to take Dual Enrollment classes?

            • No. If a student decides to study at BU full-time, BU does not require test scores as long as they are at least 16 years of age.

            Are the classes live? Do students need to log in and participate at certain times?

            • Classes are offered online, so a student can log on and study at their convenience and their own pace. Students have assignments due each week; you can complete your assignments at any point in time before the deadline.

            Does an Early College student need to come to campus for anything?

            • No. However, we would love to have you visit our campus if you are interested in continuing with traditional on-campus study. Students who complete their associate’s degree have the option to walk at our commencement ceremony.

            Are Early College students able to receive Financial Aid?

            • No. However, Early College courses are very affordable compared to other options. The cost for an online Dual Enrollment course is $100 per credit hour.

            How do transferring credits work?

            • Each College or University completes a transcript review in order to decide which courses will transfer. Sticking to general education classes generally makes transferring credits simple. All Early College courses at Bluefield University are general education classes that should transfer to another accredited institution.

            Is an Early College student considered, and treated, as a transfer student when they become a full-time college student if they have earned enough credits to be a Junior?

            • No. Since they have not graduated from high school, they are considered a first-time college student regardless of how many credits transfer. However, by transferring credits when they enroll as a full-time student, they will have to take fewer classes to receive their bachelor’s degree, which shortens the length of time to earn the degree.

            Can I speak to someone if I have more questions?

            • Yes. Please contact the Office of Admissions by email or you can call them at 276.326.4231

             

            Skip to content