15 Best Online Colleges that Accept Transfer Credits
Imagine being in the middle of a career when you realize your true passion lies elsewhere. Or perhaps, life circumstances pushed you into the workforce before completing your college degree.
For many adult learners and career changers, the dream of higher education can seem like a distant reality, overshadowed by the responsibilities of daily life. But what if we told you that transferring your existing credits to an online college could be your ticket to a brighter future? To do so, you’ll need to look for colleges that accept transfer credits.
In today’s interconnected world, online education has emerged as a flexible and accessible solution for those looking to further their education without putting their lives on hold.
With more colleges recognizing the diverse paths students take, many institutions now offer generous transfer credit policies, ensuring that your hard-earned credits don’t go to waste. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, 38% of all college students will transfer at least once before graduating.
This post will explore the best online colleges that not only accept transfer credits but also provide robust programs tailored for adult learners and career changers. We’ll guide you through the top institutions that honor your past educational efforts, helping you seamlessly transition into the next chapter of your academic and professional life.
Whether you’re looking to gain new skills, switch career paths, or finally achieve that long-held dream of a college degree, these colleges are here to make your educational aspirations a reality.
What Are Transfer Credits?
Simply put, transfer credits are the recognition a new institution gives to the coursework you have completed at another college or university. This process allows you to carry over the credits (and the hard work) you’ve already earned, so you don’t have to start from scratch.
Imagine you’ve taken multiple courses in a community college, and now you’re aiming to join a four-year university. Transfer credits can save you time and money by applying your previous coursework to your new degree program.
The process typically involves submitting your transcripts for evaluation. The receiving institution will compare your previous courses with their own curriculum to determine equivalency. For instance, if you’ve completed an introductory psychology course, it might replace a similar requirement at your new school.
What Can Be Used As Transfer Credits?
Navigating the transfer credit process can be daunting for university students, adult learners, and career changers. There are several types of credits that can qualify as transfer credits. Here are some examples:
1. Previously Earned College Credits
This is the most straightforward option, and the one that comes to mind pretty much right away for most students.
If you’ve attended a college or university before, the credits you’ve earned can often be transferred to your new institution. This includes general education courses, electives, and major-specific classes.
For example, if you’ve completed a freshman English course at one university, you might not need to take it again. Many schools have transfer agreements or policies that make this process seamless.
2. Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) Credits
High school students who’ve taken AP or IB courses and passed their exams may also be eligible for college credit. For instance, scoring a 4 or 5 on an AP Biology exam could allow you to skip an introductory biology class.
3. Military Training and Experience
For adult learners and career changers with military experience, many universities offer credits for military training through programs like the American Council on Education (ACE). This means that your service can count toward your degree.
4. Professional Certifications and Work Experience
Certain professional certifications and significant work experience may also qualify for credits.
For example, a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification might translate into credit for a project management course.
The Benefits of Finding a School That Accepts Transfer Credits
Whether you’re an adult learner returning to school, a college transfer student looking for a better fit, or an educational counselor guiding students, understanding the advantages of choosing a school that accepts transfer credits can be a game-changer:
Fast-Track Your Education
One of the most significant benefits of transferring credits is the ability to fast-track your education. Imagine cutting down what could be a four-year degree into three years – or even less!
By transferring previously earned credits, you can skip courses you’ve already mastered and focus on what’s new and exciting. This is particularly beneficial for adult learners who may have work commitments or family responsibilities.
Reduce Tuition Costs
Education is an investment, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Schools that accept transfer credits can significantly reduce your tuition costs. Each credit hour you transfer is one less credit hour you have to pay for. Over time, these savings can add up, leaving you with more financial freedom to invest in other areas of your life.
With the national student debt surpassing $1.6 trillion, minimizing debt is crucial. Transfer credits can help you achieve this goal. By reducing the number of courses you need to graduate, you can limit the amount of financial aid or loans required. This is a critical step in securing your financial stability post-graduation.
Personalized Learning Journey
Finding a school that accepts transfer credits allows for a more personalized learning experience. You have the flexibility to tailor your education according to your career goals and interests. This means you can focus on specialized courses that align with your career aspirations rather than retaking general education classes.
Easier Transition Between Schools
Switching schools can be a daunting process. However, institutions that facilitate transfer credits often have streamlined processes that make transitioning smoother. This ease can alleviate the stress associated with moving to a new academic environment, allowing you to hit the ground running.
Accelerate Entry into the Job Market
By transferring credits and accelerating your degree completion, you can enter the job market sooner. This early entry can provide a competitive edge, allowing you to gain work experience and climb the career ladder faster than your peers who are still in school.
Broaden Network and Resources
Attending multiple institutions can also expand your professional network. Each school has its own set of resources, alumni, and connections. By transferring, you gain access to a broader network, increasing your opportunities for internships, job placements, and mentorship.
15 Best Online Colleges That Accept Transfer Credits
Ready to start your online education? Here are some of the best online colleges that accept transfer credits. As you can see, you have plenty of options to choose from!
1. Arizona State University
You’ll find strength in numbers as a transfer student at Arizona State University, where more than 41,000 students attend ASU online (many of them also transfer students). There are more than 138 different programs to choose from, including:
- Psychology
- Business Management
- Organizational Leadership
- Nursing
- Biology
The vast majority – nearly ¾ – of all ASU students transfer in form another school, most of them with an associate’s degree or another form of postsecondary studies. You’ll have an enrollment coach to help you every step of the way, along with access to help features like financial aid, counseling, and much more.
2. Walden University
Walden University is a leader in online learning, offering more than 80 programs. It allows students to transfer up to 75% of their undergraduate credits. This school offers personalized transfer evaluations and support from enrollment specialists to help you make the most of your previous credits.
Some key majors include:
- Public Health
- Psychology
- Education
3. California State University – Fullerton
The degree completion programs at California State University – Fullerton are expansive, with popular majors in business administration, sociology, humanities and social sciences, and so much more.
To transfer here is relatively simple – you just need 60 semester hours to be admitted with a minimum 2.0 GPA. With about 93% of all students studying online at least part-time, you’ll find yourself among a like minded community as you start your classes here.
4. Southern New Hampshire University
Well-known for its online offerings and a true pioneer in the field of distance learning, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers over 200 online programs, including those in marketing, accounting, criminal justice, and more.
Its liberal transfer credit policy allows students to transfer up to 90 credits.
Not only that, but SNHU offers free transcript evaluation and flexible degree completion options, making it easier for students to see how their existing credits can be applied.
5. University of Florida
The University of Florida (UF) offers high-ranking online undergraduate degrees and accepts both lower and upper-division transfer students.
UF’s affordable tuition and additional financial aid options for nontraditional students make it an excellent choice for those concerned about cost.
Some popular programs include:
- Health Education
- Sport Management
- Criminology
6. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
UNC Greensboro is famous for accepting up to 88% of all transfer credits, which means it should be at the top of your list if you’re searching for a transfer-friendly public school. It’s recognized by U.S. News & World Report for having some of the best bachelor’s degrees online in the country, with popular choices including:
- RN to BSN
- Human Development
- Public Health Education
- Accounting
- Peace and Conflict Studies
7. University of Houston
The University of Houston has been offering quality distance education programs since 1953. It is one of Texas’ Tier One schools. It has a long history of distance education as well, and offers a variety of online programs to meet the needs of its students.
The most popular majors here are:
- Engineering
- Business
- Health Services
8. University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers more than 20 undergraduate online degrees, including those in:
- Nursing
- Anthropology
- Psychology
It is known for its simple transfer requirements and support through success coaches.
UCF’s rolling applications and dedicated success coaches provide continued support throughout your academic journey, ensuring you stay on track.
9. Purdue Global
Purdue Global, located in West Lafayette, IN, has been providing quality education to students on campus since 1869. It now has more than 100 different online degrees that are wonderful options for transfer students in particular.
Some popular majors include:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Business Management
- Computer and Information Sciences
- Liberal Arts and Sciences
This school has an extremely liberal transfer policy, allowing students to receive credit for roughly 75% of their undergraduate degree. You can transfer in credits from two- or four-year institutions or an associate degree
10. Florida International University
Florida International University (FIU) offers nationally recognized online programs. Transfer
Students can easily enroll with at least 60 credit hours from an accredited institution.
Some popular majors include:
- Computer Technology
- Business Administration
- Health Services
FIU offers an automatic transfer for Florida college graduates and provides multiple online degrees, making it convenient for students within the state to continue their education.
11. Pennsylvania State University
Pennsylvania State University provides over 175 online degrees and has a flexible transfer credit policy, making it easy for students to advance their education.
The school offers extensive online degree options and a convenient transfer credit tool to simplify the process of bringing in your previous credits.
The top majors for students to choose from include:
- Information Sciences
- Health Policy and Administration
12. University of Maryland Global Campus
The University of Maryland, located in College Park, Maryland, also has a famed online campus that’s great for aspiring transfer students. The school has been offering distance education opportunities worldwide, in some form or another, for more than seven decades, and has one of the largest populations of transfer students in the world.
Some common degree choices here include:
- Psychology
- Homeland Security
- Web and Digital Design
As a student here, you’ll benefit from extensive student services and a generous credit transfer policy. In addition to accepting credits from accredited schools, UMGC also awards credit for vocational and technical education, military training, and professional experience.
13. Colorado State University
Colorado State University enables students to accelerate their degree by allowing a maximum of 90 transfer credits. This school offers an online transfer evaluation system and credit for prior learning assessments to help you make the most of your previous education.
Some popular programs of study include:
- Agricultural Sciences
- Business
- Criminal Justice
14. University of North Texas
With ten different online programs to choose from, the University of North Texas isn’t the broadest in terms of its course offerings – however, it’s still one of the best schools for transfer students because of its generous credit transfer policy. What it lacks in quantity it certainly makes up for in quality!
The most popular majors here are:
- Criminal Justice
- Information Sciences
- General Business
You’ll benefit from extensive financial aid and plenty of other support services as well.
15. Liberty University
Liberty University is a popular choice for adult learners seeking online education. Founded in 1971, the university offers numerous accredited programs and accepts up to 90 transfer credits.
Top majors include:
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
- Elementary Education
Liberty University has a generous transfer credit policy and allows you to use military experience credits, making it easier for service members and veterans to earn their degrees.
The Takeaway
More students are transferring credits than ever before, and with more than 10 million students taking classes online, it’s clear that looking for an online school that also accepts transfer credits is a wise move.
With these schools in mind, you have no excuse to keep putting off your dreams. Sharpen your pencils (or should we say, plug in your keyboard?) and start applying. It’s time to finally finish that degree!