Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General
What is the difference between Early College, PSEO, and Dual Enrollment?
- Early College includes all students who are enrolled in Bethel courses while still in high school.
- PSEO (short for Post Secondary Enrollment Options) is a state-funded program that allows Minnesota high school juniors and seniors to complete college courses, at no cost to them, before they graduate from high school.
- Dual Enrollment is a reduced-tuition option for junior and senior high school students who do not qualify for PSEO but wish to participate in Bethel courses.
PSEO
What type of courses can I take as a PSEO student?
Students typically take courses that meet their high school graduation requirements, and often choose general education courses that also meet college requirements. If you have a strong interest in a specific area of study, you're academically qualified, and your graduation requirements are met, you may begin taking major-specific courses.
How are courses offered?
Bethel courses are offered in-person and online. Some online courses are “asynchronous,” which means you can access materials and complete coursework whenever it’s convenient for you. You may also choose to have a mix of in-person and online courses.
How much does PSEO cost?
PSEO is funded by the State of Minnesota, so it’s free to Minnesota residents!
How does course selection and registration work for a PSEO student?
Once you've completed the required forms and confirmed your enrollment in PSEO at Bethel, an Early College advisor will reach out to schedule a meeting to discuss course selection. Just like other Bethel students, you'll meet with your academic advisor every semester to plan out courses based on your high school graduation requirements and long-term goals.
Can a parent or guardian access PSEO student information?
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal regulation that prevents universities from sharing academic information with parents and guardians, regardless of the age of their student. As a student, you may grant permission for your parents/guardians to access academic information through the Office of the Registrar. This does not include course progress or grades throughout the semester.
Can I join clubs and extracurricular activities while I’m in PSEO at Bethel?
Yes! We highly encourage PSEO students to engage in extracurricular activities at Bethel. We have academic clubs, special interest groups, music, theatre, intramural sports, and more. There are many ways to engage with campus life, and you can participate in events and activities just like traditional students. We also have a dedicated PSEO engagement specialist who plans events, communicates with, and supports PSEO students at Bethel.
How do PSEO students get involved at Bethel?
Our PSEO engagement specialist in the Office of Student Life works specifically with PSEO students, helping connect them to Bethel’s community and activities. Look for opportunity fairs—held the first month of each semester—that are designed to showcase ways to plug into the Bethel community. All students are also invited to weekly events, some of which are specific to PSEO and commuter students.
How many credits can I take each semester?
As a PSEO student, you may take up to 16 credits during fall semester and up to 20 credits during the spring semester (which includes January Session). If you'd like to take more credits, you'll need to make a request through the Office of the Registrar.
Am I required to take a course during January Session?
During January Session, Bethel students dedicate about three weeks to a single course. This can be a great opportunity to meet a graduation requirement in a condensed format, or dabble in a completely new subject! However, it can also bring scheduling challenges if you're also taking high school classes or part of extracurricular activities outside of Bethel. So, as a PSEO student, you can decide whether or not you'd like to register for January Session.
What academic supports are available to PSEO students?
Bethel professors make it a priority to be available to students via email, in class, and during weekly office hours. Some professors may also have teaching assistants who coordinate and lead help/study sessions. Our students have access to the Academic Enrichment and Support Center, which has 150 tutors ready to assist you. Online courses have virtual support options that are linked on course websites and syllabi.
Can a PSEO student live on campus?
Full-time PSEO students—who are taking at least some in-person courses—may be eligible to live on campus. Students must be at least 17 years old, with senior status, to apply to live in residence areas alongside traditional Bethel students. Room and board fees are not covered by the PSEO program and will be charged to the student.
How do I schedule a campus visit?
We would love to host you on campus! You can schedule a personalized visit any time, and our campus visit manager will connect with you soon.
Dual Enrollment
How much does it cost to take Dual Enrollment courses?
$250/credit
Can parents/guardians access students’ information?
The same FERPA regulations apply to all students. Universities are prevented from sharing academic information with parents and guardians, regardless of the age of their student. As a Dual Enrollment student, you may grant permission for your parents/guardians to access academic information through the Office of the Registrar. This does not include course progress or grades throughout the semester.
Textbooks for PSEO
How does a PSEO student get their textbooks?
The Campus Store orders textbooks automatically after students register for PSEO courses. You'll be required to return your books at the end of the semester in good condition. Once you're enrolled in courses, you'll be able to find out more about your textbooks on the Early College Moodle page.
Do online courses have textbooks?
Yes. However, online courses only use digital resources. More information about the course textbooks can be found on Moodle, our online learning platform, and you’ll have access to that once you’re registered for courses.
How does a PSEO student return their textbooks?
You'll be required to return your textbooks, in good condition, to the Campus Store by the end of the semester. You do not need to return single-use access codes, digital books, or course packets. If you fail to return textbooks, or return them in damaged condition, your student account will be charged the used price for each non-returned textbook.