University of Findlay Ranked Number One Private Provider of College Credit Plus in Ohio

University of Findlay found itself at the top of the list of rankings when the 2021-2022 annual report on College Credit Plus (CCP) came out in January. With 1,796 students participating, UF remained the number one private provider of College Credit Plus in the state of Ohio. “In fact, our program reach is comparable to or exceeds that of some larger, regional public institutions,” said Christine Denecker, Ph.D. Associate Vice President for Learning and Innovation.

CCP provides high school students with the opportunity to earn college credits while in school, either attending University classes, or taking the classes at their high schools, with credentialed instructors who have been trained by UF faculty. Last year, UF CCP students earned 9,993 credits with a 97% completion rate. Those students averaged a GPA of 3.38, which is in line with the state average of 3.37. UF currently partners with over 40 schools across the state, spanning from Put-in-Bay High School on South Bass Island to Minford Schools near the Ohio River.

Denecker says CCP classes opens college access to minoritized populations that in the past may not have college as an option. CCP can also help students save money on college. Many CCP students get a “taste” of college by taking general education classes (English, Math, and Science) out of the way. Finishing college-level classes before starting college can help in more ways than one. “Since students are shortening time to degree, they can potentially pick up a minor or another major thanks to the time spent in CCP,” she says. “They could also go the opposite direction and take a lighter course load each semester—thanks to CCP credits, which can be a wonderful benefit in lowering stress levels while still graduating ‘on time.’”

CCP can be equally as beneficial for students in exploring the option of going to college. “CCP students might take a college course or two in high school and decide that college is not for them. Others may look for a credential or two-year degree,” says Denecker. “When done well and when classes are chosen with intention, CCP can be powerful in helping students discover interests and position themselves for the future.”

In Fall of 2022, the University of Findlay added an Associate of Arts degree in general studies. While the degree will serve a variety of populations, Denecker believes it may also be of interest to high school students as it provides them with the opportunity to earn an associate degree soon after or at high school graduation. For those students taking CCP classes, UF provides support through advising, as well as access to UF’s Shafer Library and the Writing Center.

If students are interested in CCP classes, they are encouraged to speak with their guidance counselor at their respective high school. Parents and students can also learn more about College Credit Plus by visiting the University of Findlay website. For additional questions, please contact Rebecca Hillman at hillman@findlay.edu.