How do transfer credits from City College of San Francisco work for Seattle University?

I'm planning on transferring from City College of San Francisco to Seattle University and was wondering about how the transfer of credits works. Has anyone had experience with this process or know what I should be prepared for?

The transfer credit process can seem daunting, but knowing some key information can certainly set your mind at ease. While I haven't personally gone through this process, I do know that Seattle University operates on a quarter system for credits unlike some other institutions with semesters which can impact how your credits are transferred.

General education and major-specific courses from an accredited institution like City College of San Francisco often transfer directly. However, the specificity of the transfer will depend on the course in question and Seattle University's course equivalency. In other words, a general biology course is likely to transfer without issue, but a very specialized course may not have an equivalent at Seattle University.

To facilitate this process, Seattle University provides a Transfer Course Equivalency Guide on its website where you can see how courses at other institutions, including City College of San Francisco, equate to courses at Seattle University.

Seattle University generally wants students to finish at least half of their major coursework at the university, so it's quite possible some of your specific major courses might not be accepted for credit toward your intended major.

Once you've been admitted and accepted your offer, you'll typically receive an official evaluation of your transfer credit, and the office of registrar will conduct a thorough evaluation of your transcript course by course. They will determine course equivalencies, assess which university requirements have been fulfilled by your previous coursework, and which of these credits can be counted toward your major or minor.

You should also reach out to Seattle University's transfer admissions officer to ask specific questions and express any concerns you might have. They are often the best resource to take advantage of as they are very familiar with the process and can provide guidance and reassurance along the way.

Keep in mind that transferring credits is a typical process and most universities, including Seattle University, have mechanisms to make this transition easier for students. But it's wise to start the conversation early with both your current institution and Seattle University to ensure a smooth transition. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek clarity when you need it!