60 Learn and Earn campuses to open

This fall, 17 new Learn and Earn High Schools will open meaning the state will have a total of 60 campuses where students can earn a high school diploma and college credit at the same time.

The schools are set up to allow students to finish high school and earn an associates degree or two years of college credit within five years.

"Every high school student in North Carolina needs to talk to their guidance counselor today about enrolling in Learn and Earn so they can take free college courses, reach their full potential and achieve their dreams," Gov. Mike Easley said in a news release.

The campuses can serve nearly 7,000 students in 53 counties. If students are not enrolled at a campus, they can still earn college credit through Learn and Earn Online, in which students earn college credit in online courses.

Easley has been working to raise the profile of Learn and Earn as his term draws to a close. The governor has said that getting more students college educations will help the state compete in a global economy.

The online program has earned national recognition, but has not attracted as many students as officials want. A list of Learn and Earn High Schools is below.