Contact: Teri Elgersma, Alpha Omega Academy, 800-682-7391

ROCK RAPIDS, Iowa, Sept. 10, 2014 /Christian Newswire/ -- Alpha Omega Academy, an online distance learning academy for grades K-12, is pleased to announce a new dual credit partnership with the University of Northwestern – St. Paul.

The program, known as Early College at the University of Northwestern, gives high school juniors and seniors a head start on their undergraduate degree by allowing them to enroll in online college courses at a discounted rate. Students who enroll in the program at the beginning of their junior year can earn up to two full years of college credit before ever setting foot on a college campus.

"We're very excited about this new journey with the University of Northwestern," said Denise Laudenbach, President of Alpha Omega Publications. "With more than 65 college courses to choose from, Northwestern gives our students even more opportunities to follow and achieve their dreams, while preparing them for the rigors of higher education with courses from a Christ-centered university."

To qualify for the program, students must hold junior or senior status, maintain a grade point average of 2.75 or higher, and meet minimum test scores (ACT/PLAN score of at least 18 or SAT score of at least 1200 or PSAT score of at least 120). For each four-credit college course students complete, they earn a full high school credit through AOA.

Dr. Alan S. Cureton, President of the University of Northwestern, notes that in addition to dual credit, the program gives students a true understanding of what to expect when they head off to a physical college to finish their degree.

"Students need intrinsic motivation to succeed in the Early College courses," he said. "Along the way, they discover how to collaborate with peers, meet deadlines, and connect with college professors on a professional and personal level. Our professors look forward to welcoming AOA students into the program."

To learn more about dual credit courses at Alpha Omega Academy, call 800-682-7396.

About Alpha Omega Academy
Accredited by NCA CASI, Alpha Omega Academy is the K-12 online school of Alpha Omega Publications. Founded in 1977, Alpha Omega Publications is a leading provider of award-winning PreK-12 Christian curriculum, educational resources, and services to Christian schools and homeschool families worldwide. Visit Alpha Omega Academy online or call 800-682-7396.

About University of Northwestern – St. Paul
University of Northwestern – St Paul (formerly Northwestern College) is a Christian university in St. Paul, Minn. Providing students an invaluable experience of integrating faith and education, UNW offers 70+ areas of undergraduate study, six master's degrees, and online and early college programs, all from a biblical worldview. Northwestern Media, a ministry of the university, operates 15 Christian radio stations and reaches over 1,000,000 listeners throughout the Midwest. Visit the University of Northwestern – St Paul online for more information.