Transfer Credits from CCD to a Four-Year University

1. Plan Your Path: Start by choosing a degree program and explore the universities you're interested in.
2. Meet with an Academic Advisor: Schedule a meeting with your advisor to discuss your goals and ensure you're following a curriculum that aligns with your transfer plans.
3. Explore Transfer Agreements: Many programs have specific transfer agreements with four-year institutions, ensuring that your credits will transfer smoothly. 
4. Apply for Transfer: Follow the application process for your chosen universities and submit all required documents.
5. Request Credit Evaluation: After acceptance, request an evaluation of your credits to see which courses will transfer. Colorado Senate Bill 24-164 states you have the right to transparency in the transfer process, including a timely response from the institution regarding accepting or denying your transfer credits. 
6. Right to Appeal: If you disagree with the evaluation, you have the right to appeal the decision through the institution’s formal process. 

CCD has established transfer agreements with several four-year universities. These agreements outline the courses you need to take at CCD to ensure a seamless transfer of credits. Be sure to follow these agreements closely and seek advice to stay on track. 

The Guaranteed Transfer Pathways (GT Pathways) courses, in which you earn a grade of C- or higher, are intended to transfer and apply to core general education requirements in Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), and most bachelor's degrees at public colleges and universities in Colorado. This ensures that the credits you earn at CCD will count toward your degree.

It's important to know that not all credits may transfer. Universities have the right to accept or deny certain credits based on their own evaluation criteria. You have the right to transparency in this process and can request a detailed explanation if any of your credits are denied within 30 days. Additionally, you have the right to appeal the decision if you believe your credits should be accepted.

Here's what to watch for:

• Non-Transferable Credits: Some credits, particularly those not part of a transfer agreement, may not be accepted by your transfer institution. Transferology.com is a useful resource for checking course equivalency information for the school you are transferring to.
• Credits that Do Not Apply to the Degree: Understand that not all courses are considered equivalent, and the university may only transfer some credits as elective credits, not fulfilling major requirements.
• Incorrect Major Declaration: Make sure you have declared the correct major for the school you are transferring to.
• Unofficial Transcripts: Only official transcripts are accepted for transfer at any institution. Be sure that you have not submitted an unofficial transcript.
• Incomplete Transcripts: If your most recent transcript included credits in progress, you must send your transfer school another transcript after your final CCD grades have posted.
• Right to Appeal: If your request to transfer credits is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process allows you to present your case for why the credits should be accepted. Be sure to keep all documentation and communicate clearly during this process.
• Right to File a Complaint: If the university denies your appeal, you may file a complaint with CDHE. 

Under the new Colorado Senate Bill 24-164, you have the right to transparency in the transfer process, including a timely response from the institution regarding the acceptance or denial of your transfer credits. You should receive a decision within 30 days after admission. 

The new legislation also ensures that you have a clear process for appealing any decision regarding your transfer credits. This process is designed to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the credits you've earned.

CCD's advisors are here to help throughout your journey and are ready to help you navigate this process.

If you encounter issues with transferring your credits because the university didn't accept them or the university didn't apply your credits to their degree:

1. Review the Evaluation: Carefully review the credit evaluation provided by your new institution.
2. Consult an Advisor: Meet with an advisor to understand why certain credits weren’t accepted and what alternatives you have.
3. File an Appeal: If you disagree with the evaluation, you have the right to appeal the decision through the institution’s formal process. 
4. If the university denies your appeal, you may file a complaint with CDHE.