While most high schools seniors are celebrating earning their diplomas this spring, students in Chicago and Atlanta are crossing the stage with something extra: both a high school diploma and a college credential already in hand.
This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260521068246/en/
While most high schools seniors are celebrating earning their diplomas this spring, students in Chicago and Atlanta are crossing the stage with something extra: both a high school diploma and a college credential already in hand.
Through dual enrollment programs, 76 DeVry University Advantage Academy (DUAA) students have earned an associate degree alongside their high school diploma. Of this year’s graduating class, 41 earned an associate degree in Information Technology and Networking, and 35 earned an associate degree in Business Management.
“We are incredibly proud of our graduates for reaching this significant milestone,” said Brian Niro, assistant dean of teaching and learning at DeVry University. “Earning a degree is a remarkable achievement, and these students have accomplished it while still in high school, giving them a meaningful head start on their futures. We are honored to have supported their success through programs that build both the knowledge and confidence needed for the next stage of their academic journeys.”
“These exemplary CPS students are not only completing high school; they are making significant strides toward their college and career aspirations,” added Dr. Karime Asaf, chief education officer at Chicago Public Schools (CPS). “Their accomplishments reflect the academic excellence and determination that we strive to nurture every day.”
Founded in 2004, DeVry University Advantage Academy is a dual-enrollment program for qualified 11th and 12th grade students offered at no cost and welcomes students from 48 high schools across the Chicago Public School system. Advantage Academy students earn their high school diploma and associate degrees at the same time.
At Advantage Academy, high school students are immersed in a professional learning environment where they develop skills through challenging, engaging, and relevant educational experiences. They cultivate strong learning habits that shape their college experience, gaining an early advantage by allowing them to earn an associate degree and develop essential academic skills while in high school.
DUAA’s success isn’t limited to Illinois. In 2024, DeVry launched a partnership with the DeKalb County School District of Georgia, expanding access to students in the Atlanta area.
Earlier this month, the Georgia program’s inaugural graduating class of 10 students reached a significant milestone, earning both high school diplomas and undergraduate certificates in Programming Essentials. Many graduates have already been accepted to institutions including Georgia State University, Wesleyan University and Tuskegee University, among others.
“We are proud to partner with DeKalb County School District to expand access to early college opportunities for students in the Atlanta region,” noted Scarlett Howery, vice president of strategic partnerships at DeVry University. “This first graduating class demonstrates the transformative power of how dual enrollment and early college access expand opportunity, enabling students to accelerate their academic journeys while gaining the skills and knowledge to succeed in college and their careers.”
In addition to their high school graduations, Advantage Academy’s graduates have been invited to attend DeVry’s in-person commencement ceremony on Sunday, June 7, at the Rosemont Theatre in Rosemont, Ill.
To learn more, visit DeVry University Advantage Academy
About DeVry University
DeVry University strives to close society’s opportunity gap and address emerging talent needs by preparing learners to thrive in careers shaped by continuous technological change. Founded in 1931, the university offers undergraduate and graduate programs onsite and online in Business, Healthcare and Technology. DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC, www.hlcommission.org/). The university’s Keller Graduate School of Management is included in this accreditation. To learn more, visit devry.edu
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260521068246/en/
Media gallery
