By Loren Germann-McClain
Senior Academic Advisor II, School of STEM
and Emily Hinton
Senior Academic Advisor II, School of Arts, Humanities & Education
Transitioning between schools or even between degrees has a significant effect on how you interact with your university. It’s a great idea to reach out to your admissions representative to get a sense of the school’s culture, the university community and the university’s support systems to make sure that a school is the right fit for you and your goals. In addition, if you are a transfer student, be sure to ask these questions to make the best of your new educational experience.
#1: What Is the School Culture?
A school’s culture doesn’t rely on a single group; instead, it is a collaborative, creative community experience. Be sure to not only look at the university’s leadership – such as the President, Provost, and other senior managers – but also review the instructors, staff, and your peers. A university’s culture comes from the diverse perspectives and backgrounds of its members as well as the educational environment itself.
When you are in a supportive environment that focuses on challenges and growth and ensures that university community members are engaged through student organizations, it’s easier to see how the university’s culture will influence you.
Make sure the university’s vision and expectations align with your own personal and professional goals. This way, your learning experience as a transfer student will start off on the right track and help you maintain the momentum and persistence you’ll need for graduation.
#2: What Are the Transfer Credit Policies?
At the University, we do our best to maximize your prior academic credit and experience as a transfer student. However, it is important to note that every college or university has its own policies regarding transfer credit applications:
- Which courses or training can be accepted by the school
- The minimum grade requirement
- Course age limitations
- Non-traditional credit opportunities (such as Prior Learning Assessments (PLAs) or credit by examination)
- The maximum number of credits that can be accepted and applied toward a degree or certificate
Be sure to review our University’s transfer credit guidelines and its residency requirements (coursework completed through a university by an enrolled student). Residency requirements are set by our accrediting body, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and vary by academic program:
- Certificate – varies; up to 9 credits remaining
- Associate – Up to a maximum of 45 transfer credits accepted
- Bachelor – Up to a maximum of 90 transfer credits accepted
- Master – Up to a maximum of 15 transfer credits accepted
- Dual Degree – Up to a maximum of 9 transfer credits accepted (no course may be transferred to the Major Required courses)
For detailed information on Transfer Credit Evaluation (TCE) and how courses you’ve completed at another school may transfer to our University, visit the Transfer Credit Evaluation Center. You can also use the Transfer Equivalency Database to view thousands of equivalent courses from other accredited universities.
Related link: Transfer Credit: Easing the College Transition Process
#3: How Do I Stay Committed to Reaching My Goal of a Degree or Certificate?
When you choose to transfer schools, your decision could be based on a variety of reasons, both personal and academic. Be sure to establish an action plan for your academic program and how you will work your way through all of the necessary courses.
Set your pace of study and pre-register for your classes, which will ensure you have the next steps toward earning a degree or certificate in place ahead of time. Even if you need to take a small break from your studies, these future class registrations are a great way to maintain your progress towards graduation.
In addition, make sure your “why” is in the front of your mind. There is a reason behind your goal of completing an academic program, so make sure that goal is tied into everything you do at the university.
Preparation and good time management skills are essential for completing your assignments, courses and academic program. If you need to prepare yourself before starting courses, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Academic Advising has great resources to help you before and during your academic journey.
Want to do some additional research on your own? You can also access our online Library and Success Center using the links at the top of your ecampus. These sites contain information on different topics and course materials, as well as “how-to” articles. You never know what helpful resources you will find.
Related link: 5 Essential Tips to Remember for Your First College Class
No matter where you are in the transfer process, your academic advisor is here to help. There are no questions too big or small for us. If you need guidance on how to submit transcripts, which courses to take first or how to join a student organization, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
About the Authors
Loren Germann-McClain is in her third year as a Senior Academic Advisor II. Loren holds an M.A. in English – Rhetoric and Composition from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, as well as an M.A. in English Literature from Southern New Hampshire University.
Emily Hinton is a Senior Academic Advisor II for the School of Arts, Humanities & Education and has worked directly with students for six years. Emily completed a M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration – Policy, Planning, and Leadership at William & Mary.
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