Can college credits transfer to trade schools?

I'm looking into whether the credits I've earned in my general education college courses can be transferred to a trade school. Has anyone done this? I'm curious if trade schools accept those credits or if I'd be starting from scratch.

This is a great question, and I'm glad you're thinking ahead. The answer can vary depending on the trade school and the specific program you're interested in, as each institution has its transfer credit policies. In general, trade schools might not accept as many transfer credits as a traditional four-year college because their coursework is typically more specialized and occupation-focused. However, they may accept some credits, particularly for classes that are similar to courses in their programs.

For instance, if you've taken math, science, or technical writing courses in college, these might transfer over if the trade school program has similar requirements. On the other hand, more specialized or major-specific courses from a traditional college might not be recognized by a trade school because they don't align with the vocational curriculum.

The best course of action would be to reach out directly to the trade schools you're interested in. Ask them about their transfer credit policy and whether they would be likely to accept any of the credits you've earned. Some schools might require official transcripts and course descriptions to make a decision. Also, keep in mind that even if credits are transferable, there will likely be a limit on the number of credits that you can transfer. Remember that each school is different, so it's worth reaching out to multiple trade schools to explore your options.

Remember, it's essential to have this conversation before making a decision. It's crucial to know what you're getting into beforehand and how much time and money it might save you in the long run.