Many busy adults with associate degrees continue their education by enrolling in degree completion programs such as Lamar University’s online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in University Studies. These degree plans often offer accelerated tracks and flexible scheduling to help students earn their bachelor’s degrees quickly and efficiently. Degree completion programs can help open doors to new opportunities and career advancement.
Understanding Transfer Credits
Once you have earned an associate degree, you can transfer colleges to earn your four-year degree. According to CollegeTransfer.Net, “Transfer credit is the measurement of comparable prior learning … versus the current offerings of a college or university.” In other words, transfer credits replace courses you would have to take to earn your degree with the credits you have already earned.
Many degree completion programs accept credits you earned from your two-year degree (or other collegiate studies). However, making sure your credits will transfer may save you time and money, especially if it has been a few years since you earned your associate degree.
When considering your transfer options, it is important to remember that the number of credit hours accepted can vary from school to school, and poor grades can hinder your ability to transfer credits. Furthermore, the associate-level courses must relate to a class in your major in order to transfer.
For example, Lamar University’s online B.S. in University Studies program design helps students make the most of their previous college credit, expediting degree completion — and lowering costs. Students can transfer up to 90 of the 120 credit hours required to complete the B.S. in University Studies.
Beyond Traditional Transfer Credits
In addition to two-year degree credits, you may also be eligible for college credit based on military or work experience. For instance, Lamar University allows students in the University Studies program to earn up to 24 credits based on demonstration of competencies learned from workplace experience. Students may instead choose to apply up to 36 hours of technical credit to the University Studies degree. Plus, Lamar University accepts non-traditional transfer credits earned through military experience, as recommended by the American Council on Education.
Earning your four-year degree can be much quicker and less complex by enrolling in an online degree completion program. Many working adults and busy parents find that the flexibility of an online program and the ability to transfer credits help them earn their bachelor’s degrees. Turning your two-year degree into a four-year degree can be a worthwhile process that boosts your income and your career.
Learn more about Lamar University’s online Bachelor of Science in University Studies.
