STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Beginning fall 2023, Palmer High School students can earn university credit before they graduate, thanks to Tarleton State University’s dual enrollment program, Tarleton Today.

Tarleton and Palmer Independent School District leaders signed the agreement May 3.

“This partnership strengthens our commitment to educational attainment for all Texans,” said Tarleton President James Hurley. “Earning university credit while learning the expectations of higher education helps high school students bridge the transition to college while also saving them money.”

Tarleton already collaborates with more than 350 school districts statewide, including Palmer, through its nationally acclaimed Distinguished High School Partners outreach. Launched in 2020, the program guarantees admission and provides annual scholarships to qualifying seniors.

“Tarleton has come through again for rural schools,” said Palmer ISD Superintendent Kevin Noack. “This program will enable our high school students to earn dual credit in agriculture and STEM areas using the same resources and curriculum as the college students on campus. We thank Tarleton for the opportunities they are creating for our students.”

Students participating in Tarleton Today take university courses over a traditional school year, receiving the high school portion of their instruction from their high school teacher and the university portion from a Tarleton professor. In addition to course content, Tarleton faculty empower students with university-ready skills and provide professional development for collaborating teachers.

Tarleton is developing dual enrollment opportunities in agricultural and STEM areas with school districts throughout Texas. Districts will choose the courses they offer.

Dual enrollment classes use the same lesson materials and learning objectives as courses taught at a Tarleton campus. Students who continue their education at Tarleton automatically qualify for additional scholarships.

A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.