Can I transfer Coursera class credits to college?

I'm thinking about taking some Coursera courses, but I'm wondering if I can transfer those credits to a college. Has anyone successfully done this or know how it works? Not sure if all colleges accept them or if there's a certain process.

While taking courses on Coursera can be a great opportunity to learn new skills or deepen your knowledge in a subject area, it's vital to understand a college's credit policies before assuming that any Coursera course credits will be accepted.

It's not typical for universities to accept Coursera courses for credit, as they often prefer courses that are part of a formal education in a regionally accredited institution. However, there are some exceptions to this rule:

Coursera has partnered with several accredited universities to provide 'MOOCs-for-credit' as part of their online degree programs, meaning these specific courses do count as college credit. These courses typically cost money and may not be open to the general public.

There is also an option on Coursera for certain courses to be taken as part of what they call "Specialization Certificates" which some universities might consider for credit, particularly for non-degree or continuing education programs. It is less common for these to be accepted for undergraduate or graduate degrees, however.

The bottom line is that it's very much a case-by-case basis. It is essential to reach out to the admissions or registrar's office at the college where you're seeking to transfer credits to. They can provide details regarding their specific policies around accepting credits from online platforms like Coursera. Another possible avenue might be through an academic advisor if you are already attending a college and are looking to supplement your existing course load.

Course credit policies can vary widely, so it's always a good idea to speak directly with the institution to ensure you fully understand their process and requirements.

On a final note, even if the class credits don’t transfer, having completed additional courses in your field of interest can still bolster your personal statement or be listed as extracurricular activities. This can offer further proof of your commitment and active interest in your chosen field or major which could be beneficial during the college application process.