Are you transferring and changing majors? Are you going to lose a lot credits? The answer is “maybe” It depends on the major you now want. Some majors are built with electives in them. Majors like Business, Engineering, Social Work, and Nursing are packed with requirements that will put you at 120 and above. But, some majors you can finish the degree and be well below the 120. Regardless, there is no getting around the minimum 120 credits for a degree.
Here is how to check if the credits you have used will apply to a new a major.
- Make sure the credits you have taken at your former institution transfer. You can check four-year to four-year transferability at MITRANSFER.ORG – Don’t forget only “C”s or better will transfer. Also, most credits in the state of Michigan are listed at: transfercredit.wayne.edu
- Do the math on the new major. The program website will list the number of credits in the major. Some majors will do a two to four year cycle of courses and list electives.
Let’s use the example of the Wayne State College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. All rough estimates!
General Education 32 Credits
Foreign Language 6 credits
Minor 20 credits.
Major 35
Total 93
Electives. 27 credits needed to get you to 120
Say you were a business major at your former institution. Now you want to do Sociology. Your Business courses will likely not fulfill General Education, Foreign Language or your major. There is potential to fulfill the electives or if you want to consider a business minor.
If you are transferring into a major that lists a lower number of major credits. Like 30-50ish. You should not have to worry too much about transfer credit loss. Even better, bring in the MTA and an Associates of Arts!
Transfer Student Blog 