Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has partnered with the public school system in Rockford, Ill., to create a new aerospace institute at a local high school. The Aerospace Institute is targeted to open in the fall at Jefferson High School.

The dual-enrollment program is in place at several school districts elsewhere in Illinois and in Florida. It is offered free of charge and enables students to earn high school credit toward graduation as well as college credit. Embry-Riddle professors teach the courses in students’ classrooms. ERAU said participants could potentially save $40,000 in college tuition costs.

The new Rockford institute initially will offer courses in principles of aeronautical science and unmanned aircraft systems. More than 29 courses related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are offered at other institutes.

“The goal of our program is for our high school students and in particular our first-generation college students to obtain a solid foundation in critical-thinking skills before attending college to complete their degree,” said Professor Leo Murphy, director of advanced placement programs at ERAU.