College Credit Options for High School Students

Several options are available for Northfield High School students to earn college credit. Contact a counselor for further information regarding any of these programs.

 Advanced Placement (AP) courses

AP  courses are college level courses taught by NHS teachers.  AP exams are given in the spring to determine a student's proficiency in the subject matter. Each college / university determines if college credit will be awarded.  AP courses are available in the following departments:  English, Social Studies, World Language, Science, Math and Music.

 Click here for more information about AP

Senior Honors Program

Through the Senior Honors Program, Northfield High School seniors have access to lower-level college courses at Carleton and St. Olaf at no cost to the student. Each college has a specific application process. Application forms are available to students in late spring of their junior year. Students are informed of their acceptance decision in the summer and are given instructions on how to register for classes.

Please note: If you intend to use a Senior Honors course to meet a graduation requirement (e.g. Economics), please check with your counselor in advance to ensure that the class is applicable.  Administrative approval is required prior to the start of these courses.

Students receive both high school and college credit for these classes. Your course grade will appear both on your high school and college transcript.

Post-Secondary Education Opportunities (PSEO)        

PSEO is a state-sponsored program designed to encourage students to enrich their academic backgrounds and prepare for collegiate expectations by taking college-level courses during high school. A variety of public and private 2-year and 4-year schools throughout Minnesota participate in this program. Courses and textbooks are provided at no cost to the student. Students may participate part-time or full-time in PSEO either on-line or by attending courses in person. Juniors and seniors interested in PSEO must complete paperwork for the college they wish to attend as well as the state of Minnesota. Each college has their own specific academic requirements, application forms, and deadlines. It is recommended that students contact the college directly for details.

Please note: If you intend to use a PSEO course to meet a graduation requirement (e.g. Economics), please check with your counselor in advance to ensure that the class is applicable.  Administrative approval is required prior to the start of these courses.

Students receive both high school and college credit for these classes. Your course grade will appear both on your high school and college transcript.

Click here for more information on PSEO

College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)

 The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) gives you the opportunity to receive college credit for what you already know by earning qualifying scores on any of 34 examinations. Earn credit for knowledge you've acquired through independent study, prior course work, on-the-job training, professional development, cultural pursuits, or internships.

Click here for more information on CLEP