Laura ,
There are no guarantees. Transfer of credits is one of those things that people just assume. Unfortunately, they often assume wrong.
Patty Aronoff
Michael, I agree. Most schools will provide the student with an evaluation of their transcripts even before they enroll so they can make a sound decision. Well said.
Disclosing to the potential student the differences in accreditation, your institution's accreditation, and how transfer credits are applied at your institution assists the student in making a sound decision about their academic program.
As an advisor you must also let them know when transferring credits from one school to another the applicability towards your degree is always determined by the school who chooses to accept the transfer credits.
I agree it's important to know your school's accreditation. I believe potential students also benefit from understanding the difference between National and Regional Accredited schools, colleges and universities. Many people are unaware of the difference and end up with huge debt and the inability to have any of their credits rolled over into a 4 year regionally accredited program. National accredited education is good if the student only plans to become a cosmotologist, radiology tech or lab tech etc...The problem is if the student wants to start a bachelor degree at a regionally accredited school the student may have to face the fact that most, if not all, of their credits won't be able to role over. My advice is to advise the student to check each colleges requirements, if they plan to transfer, so the student isn't waisting time or their money.
The most important word to not use when discussing credits and accreditation is guarantee. The transfer of credits depends on the institution and is based on several factors. It is also important to know your organization's accreditation.
