Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to take college-level courses and receive credit at both institutions toward the completion of a college degree. Such programs are also referred to as concurrent enrollment, joint enrollment, or dual credit. This brief discusses the advantages and drawbacks of dual enrollment programs. Currently, more than 30 states are operating or have passed legislation establishing dual enrollment programs. The rules and regulations that govern such programs vary significantly, and funding for these programs varies among states. State involvement in dual enrollment programs is extensive. Such programs offer many benefits for students, including reduction of the senior drop out rate, the accumulation of college credits while still in high schools, and lower costs for students resulting from less time required to earn a degree. Benefits can also be identified for colleges and universities, high schools, and society. Concerns center on costs for students and institutions, program quality, faculty issues, transferability, and institutional liability. Dual enrollment programs represent a trend with a strong future, and can be expected to serve a number of different purposes. (Contains 39 endnotes.) (SLD)