If you have recently completed coursework through Kaplan University, you may be wondering how much of it will transfer to a four-year institution. Universities create their own policies that govern transfer credit equivalencies, and applications to have credits transferred are considered on a case-by-case basis by university registrars. These decisions are guided by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admission Officers (AACRAO,) which encourages a balance of factors: accreditation, quality, comparability and applicability towards meeting academic goals.
Accreditation
Accreditation is considered to be an important---but not decisive---factor in determining whether credit will be accepted for transfer. Kaplan is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which is a regional accrediting body for the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. According to the AACRAO, such accreditation assures institutions that the work done is of a standard that is at least minimally acceptable.
Quality
Registrars take into account the quality of the complete educational experience being considered for transfer. This may include reviewing the work done in the course, the availability and effectiveness of the instructors, and the accuracy and breadth of information provided. They may request copies of coursework and syllabi in order to evaluate whether the work was of sufficient quality to meet the standards of a four-year institution.
Comparability
Work must be judged to be comparable to courses of a similar nature at the university that is considering the credit for transfer. Comparability is inclusive of the content, level and nature of the work. In an introductory course, for instance, a similarity of basic principles or foundational texts must be presented, and the work must be recognizably comparable in academic and intellectual content.
Applicability
In order to be accepted for transfer, Kaplan coursework must be seen as applying towards a specific academic goal or degree path. The student should be able to articulate his academic goals and demonstrate how the coursework is relevant to achieving them.
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Writer Bio
Colby Phillips' writing interests include culture and politics. Phillips received a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Oregon and a Master of Arts in philosophy from Boston College.