Can I Transfer Credits From a Community College to an Online Bachelor Degree Program?

With four-year university tuition rates soaring, many students opt to earn an associate's degree at a community college then transfer to an online bachelor degree program [http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/bachelors.aspx]. While many online bachelor degree programs will accept community college coursework as transfer credit, the requirements are different for each institution. This is why it's important to research credit transfers early to ensure you'll receive the credit you deserve.


Review Your Online Bachelor Degree Program Choices
With so many online bachelor degree programs to choose from, how do you know which ones will accept your community college credits? First, create a list of the top 10 online bachelor degree programs you're considering. Next, schedule a meeting with your community college counselor or advisor to discuss your choices. He or she may already have

information on whether the online bachelor degree programs you're interested in are offered by cooperating institutions. Many universities have cooperating relationships - also known as articulation agreements or transfer agreements - with community colleges, making it easier to transfer all or most of your credits into an online bachelor degree program.


Take Your Research Beyond the Community College Campus
In addition to talking with your community college counselor, you can visit the websites of the universities you're considering for your online bachelor program and search for "transfer credits." Some schools allow you to request a transfer evaluation online, or you can call and ask to speak to a representative about transfer credits. The earlier you start your research, the better. If you find out in advance which community college courses are eligible for transfer credit, it will make it easier to choose your classes each term. And by finding out which schools will accept transfer credits, you'll be able to identify the best online bachelor degree program for you.



Choose Your Major in Advance
Working closely with the transfer advisor at your chosen university and your community college counselor, you can develop an online bachelor degree curriculum that takes best advantage of your community college credits. By not waiting until the last minute to declare your major, you can make sure you complete the prerequisite courses you need for your specific online bachelor degree program.


Apply Early for Your Online Bachelor Degree Program
The transfer application and admissions procedures and deadlines can vary greatly between universities and degree programs, so it's wise to get an early start on your research and application process. While you may meet the general requirements for your chosen university, be aware that your online bachelor degree program may have additional requirements and admission standards. Even though you may be qualified for admittance to the university, it doesn't necessarily mean that you will be accepted to the online bachelor degree program of your choice. The sooner you obtain your acceptance, the easier it is to ensure your coursework is on track for transfer credit.



If you have an associate's degree or are in the process of earning one, transferring your course credits to an online bachelor degree program is a smart move. Get a head start on your bachelor's education by researching your online degree program options today.

About the Author

Carson Kelly is a freelance writer focused on education and career advancement. If you are looking to start or continue your education utilize the US News University Directory to locate associate degree courses, bachelors degrees and master's degrees programs online.