ACTC celebrates dual credit week, highlighting regional impact and partnerships

Published on Apr 16, 2026

Ashland Community and Technical College (ACTC) is excited to celebrate Dual Credit Week from April 13-17, highlighting the significant impact of its dual credit program across the region.

The week-long observance emphasizes the growing importance of dual credit opportunities, which allow local high school students to earn college credits while still in high school.

Last fall, ACTC’s dual credit program served 1,006 students from 13 partner high schools across 12 local school districts. These students are enrolled in 125 college courses, accumulating an impressive 5,153 credit hours.

This educational opportunity has not only helped students prepare for future careers but has also saved families a total of $500,132 in tuition costs.

“We are proud to see the continued growth and impact of our dual credit program,” said Dr. Larry Ferguson, ACTC President/CEO. “Dual Credit Week highlights the meaningful opportunities available to high school students across our region. Through strong partnerships with local schools, we are able to expand access to high-quality education, allowing students to reduce college costs while gaining valuable skills and early college experience.”

In celebration of Dual Credit Week, ACTC is spotlighting the diverse range of programs offered through its dual credit partnerships.

Welding, electrical technology, business, computer information, and a variety of health science courses are offered at partner high schools and technology centers.

These courses provide students with hands-on experience in high-demand career fields, ensuring they are well-prepared to either enter the workforce immediately after high school or continue their education.

ACTC dual credit general education courses allow students to complete required core requirements at a fraction of the cost, then continue at a university.

“We encourage our dual credit students pursuing a university degree to complete their first two years of coursework here at ACTC” said Vicki McGinnis, ACTC dual credit coordinator. “They will experience high quality instruction at a fraction of the university cost, taking classes for transfer to their four-year degree. In addition, there are opportunities for transfer scholarships to Kentucky universities after completing a two-year associate in arts or sciences degree at ACTC.”

For local students interested in taking ACTC dual credit courses, the first step is to talk to their high school guidance counselor.

“Boyd County High School is thankful for our dual credit partnership with ACTC,” said Bridget Adams, Boyd County High School dual credit coordinator. “We’re giving students access to college courses while still in high school, opening doors to future opportunities, building real-world skills, and saving time and money on their education.”

Boyd Career and Technical Center director, Courtney Bartley, agreed with Adams.

“CTE students can get up to eight free college classes before they ever graduate high school,” Bartley said. “That’s 24 college hours. Imagine the time, money, and stress this saves. Dual credit creates a clearer and more confident path from the classroom to a career.”

For more information about dual credit opportunities at ACTC, visit https://ashland.kctcs.edu/admissions/information-for/dual-credit.aspx

Current dual credit students interested in attending ACTC after graduation should email as_recruitment@kctcs.edu .