LCCC Launches Five Dual Enrollment Academies Backed by Pennsylvania Dual Credit Innovation Grant

Schnecksville, Pa., August 3, 2026 – Lehigh Carbon Community College (LCCC) has announced today that the Pennsylvania Dual Credit Innovation Grant funding will cover up to 12 credits, textbooks, and fees to help high school students explore high-priority career pathways. The funding will support the launch of five new Dual Enrollment Academies designed to guide high school students along structured pathways directly aligned with high-priority occupations across the Commonwealth.

Participating high school students can now enroll in curated course sequences within five key industry sectors:

• Criminal Justice
• Education
• Healthcare
• Computer Science (Computer Science & CIS, Network & Cybersecurity, and Gaming)
• Technology (Advanced Manufacturing)

Through June 30, 2028 (or until funds are exhausted), the grant fully covers up to 12 credits of Academy coursework—including all tuition, required textbooks, and course fees.

The Academy program is structured for maximum flexibility. Students are not required to complete an entire Academy track to receive funding. At a minimum, taking one or two introductory courses offers a tuition-free, low-risk opportunity to test a career field while earning credits toward an LCCC degree or transfer path. Stand-alone eligible classes outside the formal Academy pathways are also fully covered by the grant, with tuition adjustments applied automatically by LCCC’s Business Office.

“This grant allows us to help students approach dual enrollment with true career intentionality,” said Brandon Kwiatek, Executive Director of High School Connections at LCCC. “Whether a student completes a full Academy sequence or simply tests the waters with an introductory class, this funding eliminates financial barriers and gives them a meaningful jumpstart on both college and their future careers.”

As part of the initiative, LCCC will also develop dedicated career workshops for Academy participants and dual enrollment students during the 2026-2027 academic year, set to roll out in spring 2027.

Enrollment and Next Steps
High school students interested in joining an Academy and securing grant funding should visit the LCCC Dual Enrollment Academy website or email dualenrollment@lccc.edu.