Transferring College Credits to an Online College

I'm thinking about moving to an online college to finish my degree. What's the process for transferring my existing credits to an online program? Are there specific challenges I should prepare for?

Transferring credits to an online college broadly mirrors the processes that exist for transfers between traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. Nevertheless, you will want to consider a few unique aspects of online learning.

1. Accreditation:

Make sure the online college you're considering is accredited. Regionally accredited schools (the highest level) are more likely to accept credits from other such institutions. Some are nationally accredited, but regionally accredited schools may not accept those credits.

2. Transfer Policies:

Every school has its own policy about which credits they'll accept. Some schools have limits on the number of credits they'll accept from different institutions, or they might not accept certain types of credits (like vocational or technical credits). You'll need to check with your prospective school's admissions office or website for specifics.

3. Degree Requirements:

If the online college has similar degree requirements as your current institution, it's more likely your credits will align and be accepted.

4. Transcript Evaluation:

You'll need to request official transcripts from your current institution to be sent to the prospective online college. They will evaluate them to determine which credits they'll accept.

5. Course Syllabi:

Sometimes, colleges may also need the syllabi of your completed courses to understand the scope of what was taught and if it matches their curriculum.

6. Articulation Agreements:

Some colleges have already established articulation agreements with others to accept their credits readily. Check if there is such an agreement between your current school and the online college.

7. Time limit:

Certain courses or credits may have a "shelf life," especially in rapidly-evolving fields like technology or healthcare. Schools might not accept credits for these courses if they are several years old.

8. Impact on GPA:

Most institutions won't factor in the GPA associated with your transferred credits. This means your GPA gets a reset, which could be good if you're wanting to improve it, but less beneficial if you've done well at your current institution.

In terms of unique challenges, pacing in online programs can be different. Some use an asynchronous learning model where you complete coursework on your own time, while others require real-time attendance for lectures or meetings. Also, personal discipline and time-management can be crucial for success in an online environment. Having the right technology and a reliable internet connection is key as well.

Remember, the transfer process can take some time, so it's important to start discussions with your prospective online college early to ensure a smooth transition. Best of luck in your educational journey!