Regent University
College Comparison WorksheetTerminology
The transfer process can be an overwhelming experience. It is important to learn some of the terms that are used in the transfer process. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification when working with an advisor. Following is a list of terms that you should become comfortable using when planning your transfer process:
Articulation
A written agreement between two colleges or universities that outlines how a course(s) or academic program will transfer from one to the other.
Associate Degree
Degree awarded for the completion of at least 60 credits of work that typically includes General Education Requirements, major program of study requirements, and electives. Community colleges and two-year private and proprietary colleges generally award the associate degree.
Bachelor Degree
Degree awarded for the completion of at least 120 credits of work that typically includes General Education Requirements, major program of study requirements, and electives. Four-year public, private, and proprietary colleges and universities generally award the bachelor degree.
Course Equivalency Guide
A list of community college courses and their corresponding or equivalent courses at a four-year college or university (to their liberal arts college).
Electives
A course that is chosen by the student as compared to one which is required to meet General Education Requirements or major course of study requirements.
General Education Requirements (GenED or Core Courses)
A group of courses which provides a broad cultural background that college and university students are required to complete as part of their graduation requirements. Gen Ed courses frequently come from the social sciences, humanities, communications, mathematics, sciences, and fine arts areas.
Lower Division
The first two years (freshman and sophomore) of college study, which can be completed at a community college or a four-year college or university.
Minor
A small group of courses that is often related to, but different from, a student's major program of study. Usually, students are required to "declare" a major, but not all colleges, require a student to choose a minor.
Non-Transferable Courses
Courses offered by a community college that will not transfer to a four-year college or university. Some examples of these courses are developmental courses in English or mathematics and many vocational courses.
Prerequisite
A course or courses that must be successfully completed before a student can enroll in the next-level course or a more advanced course.
Transferable Courses
Courses offered by one college (e.g., a community college) that will transfer to another college (e.g., a four-year college or university). These courses can usually be applied toward the bachelor degree requirements at the four-year college or university.
Upper Division
The last two years (junior and senior) of college study, which are usually completed at a four-year college or university.