For many families with high school students, the years leading up to college raise countless questions: Is my student ready academically? Will we be able to afford college financially? Are they spiritually grounded for the independence ahead?
Through Colorado Christian University's CCU Academy, the answer is a confident "Yes!"
CCU Academy allows students 15 years and older to earn college credit while fulfilling their high school requirements, blending academic rigor with spiritual formation. Britt Snyder, dean of CCU Academy, sat down with BEYOND to discuss this unique dual enrollment program, leading the way in creating greater opportunities and access to private, Christian liberal arts higher education.
Values for Life
"There are many benefits to taking dual enrollment courses, and the financial savings are a huge draw for many families," said Snyder.
Affordability is at the heart of the program. High school students can take a wide selection of general education courses from CCU — typically freshman and sophomore-level — all taught from a biblical worldview. These courses satisfy both high school and college credit requirements, giving students a jump start on their higher education at a fraction of the cost. Many graduate high school with up to two years of college credit from Colorado Christian University under their belts, and those pursuing an associate degree can enter college with both a financial and academic advantage.
Beyond financial savings, another benefit of CCU Academy is the academic preparedness that comes from taking the program's college-level courses.
"We make our courses excellent and rigorous," said Snyder. "We want our students to gain confidence, knowing, 'I accomplished this, and I can take on the next step in my education.' We're not a university offering high school classes — we are a university offering college courses to high school students."
Dual credit courses teach students real-world skills: deadlines matter, late work impacts grades, and self-discipline is required. "It's real-world preparation," Snyder explained. "We teach grace and truth, but students also learn accountability." Highly motivated students who partner with professors in their success thrive in the program, entering college prepared and easing the often-intense transition from high school.
The CCU Difference
One of CCU Academy's defining features is its shared mission with the University: to transform students to impact the world with the grace and truth of Jesus Christ. Every dual-credit course is taught through a biblical lens by professors who are experts in their fields and also committed Christians.
"What separates CCU Academy from other dual enrollment opportunities is that we are always making sure Jesus' name is known," said Snyder. "We want our students to leave the program knowing Jesus a little more deeply than they did before. It's not just about earning credits — it's about building confidence, integrity, and a biblical foundation for their future."
While many universities offer early college credit, CCU Academy's Christ-centered approach truly sets it apart, fully integrating faith and spiritual growth with exceptional academic excellence for dual enrolled students. As one of the first Christian universities to offer dual enrollment, CCU Academy has earned a strong reputation for excellence, leading the way in academic and spiritual distinction.
"It's all CCU," said Snyder. "Everything carries the same biblical worldview and academic integrity you'd find on our main campus."
Reaching Beyond
The program's quality has fueled its rapid growth. In the past year, nearly 7,300 students enrolled in dual-credit courses through more than 230 Christian high school partners and homeschool programs nationwide. These partnerships provide a Christ-centered alternative to public school or secular dual-credit options, opening doors to families who value academic rigor alongside spiritual growth.
CCU Academy also provides access to Christian higher education to families worldwide. The program's online format allows children of missionaries to log into live classes from South America, Europe, and Africa, while homeschool families across the United States appreciate the private Christian liberal arts college opportunities that might otherwise feel out of reach.
CCU Academy provides access to Christian higher education to families worldwide. The program's online format allows children of missionaries to log into live classes from South America, Europe, and Africa, while homeschool families across the United States enjoy private Christian liberal arts college opportunities that might otherwise feel out of reach.
Post-Covid, more families have embraced the benefits of home education, and CCU Academy has become an invaluable partner in many families' homeschool journeys.
"It's a blessing," said Snyder. "Parents realize they can educate their kids at home and still give them the best in academic integrity and biblical teaching, from experts passionate about their subject matter."
From Classes to Callings
For many students, CCU Academy is life changing. One student enrolled "on a whim" in a communications course and discovered a new calling through mentorship from her professor. She later enrolled at CCU to continue her studies with the same instructor. "Students not only grow academically, but also find direction for their God-given purpose," Snyder shared.
The program's personal support from a dedicated staff is another defining feature that sets CCU Academy apart. Each partner school, teacher, and student is supported by a team of advisors who help with enrollment, course planning, and spiritual encouragement. Student Success Advisors monitor progress, assist struggling students, and pray for each student, ensuring families know that students are cared for mind, body, and spirit.
"These college courses are taught at full rigor," Snyder emphasized. "But our advisors walk with students every step of the way."
Far more than college credits, coursework, or even affordability, CCU Academy is about life-changing transformation.
"Our students are in great hands," said Snyder. "We care deeply about them as whole people — academically, spiritually, and personally. Every student is made in the image of God, and that truth guides everything we do."
Get a Head Start with CCU Academy
Interested in earning college credits before graduating high school? CCU Academy's dual enrollment program enables students aged 15 and older to gain a head start on their higher education while establishing a solid biblical foundation. Discover how CCU Academy can give your student an academic, financial, and spiritual advantage for their future.
Learn More About CCU Academy