Start in high school. Save money. Transfer with confidence.
Explore the pathwayThe opportunity
Laurel Ridge’s dual-enrollment program allows students to begin their bachelor’s degree while still in high school. The 1+1+2 Pathway is a clear and affordable plan that will help them make the most of that head start. By combining dual enrollment and our transfer degree programs, students can save thousands in tuition costs, and graduate with confidence – and less student debt!
With personalized advising and established transfer pathways, students are not just earning credits. They're following a proven route to a bachelor's degree and future career success.
A clear route forward
One connected journey, from high school classes to a bachelor’s degree.
First 1 · While in high school
Begin an intentional college pathway while in high school by dual enrolling in classes that confer both Laurel Ridge and high school credits. Many students complete the 31-credit Uniform Certificate of General Studies (UCGS) before high school graduation, the equivalent of one year of college courses – giving them a significant head start toward a bachelor's degree.
Plus 1 · At Laurel Ridge
After high school graduation, complete an associate degree at Laurel Ridge while receiving personalized support from our faculty and staff and benefiting from our affordable tuition.
Plus 2 · At a four-year university
Thanks to our guaranteed admissions agreements with numerous four-year colleges and universities across Virginia, seamlessly transfer and earn your bachelor’s degree in just two more years.
The thinking behind it
Classes that qualify for the UCGS are free for students. Some students earn their UCGS, while some earn even more credits.
Students then complete the remaining coursework needed for an eligible associate degree at Laurel Ridge, benefiting from one of the most affordable tuition rates in Virginia.
Students who complete an eligible transfer associate degree and meet all Guaranteed Admission Agreement requirements transfer as juniors to participating universities and continue toward their bachelor's degrees.
“It definitely prepared me for the rigor of college coursework. I think it was a great opportunity. It helped save money and time in my education.”
The cost picture
The 1+1+2 Pathway allows students to earn college credits at a significantly lower cost while staying on track toward a bachelor's degree.
| Institution | Four years | 1+1+2 Pathway | Estimated savings attending Laurel Ridge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shenandoah University | $155,480 | $83,037 | $72,443 |
| James Madison University (Virginia resident) | $59,072 | $34,833 | $24,239 |
| George Mason University (GMU) | $59,228 | $40,574 | $18,654 |
*Savings estimates are based on published tuition and required fees at the time of publication and assume completion of a 120-credit bachelor's degree on schedule. Actual costs and savings will vary. Tuition rates are subject to change annually.
More than a head start
Where it can take you
The 1+1+2 Pathway helps students turn early college success into long-term opportunity.
Start in high school. Save money. Transfer with confidence.
Ready to learn more?Your next conversation
Contact your high school counselor, career coach, or Laurel Ridge Early College advisor to explore the 1+1+2 Pathway.
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