Will My Walters State Credits Transfer? Here's What Students Should Know

It's a common concern among students considering community college: Will my credits transfer to a four-year university?

At Walters State Community College, students have more options than they might realize.

Through the Tennessee Transfer Pathway program, students can choose from 50 majors offering guaranteed credit transfer to Tennessee public universities when they complete the required coursework.

And the opportunities don't stop there. More than 60 additional majors are covered through articulation agreements or course-by-course transfer arrangements, giving students other ways to begin their education at Walters State before pursuing a bachelor's degree.

How Tennessee Transfer Pathways Work

The Tennessee Transfer Pathway program was developed through cooperation between the Tennessee Board of Regents and the University of Tennessee system to make transferring between institutions easier and more predictable.

Students select an approved major, complete the required courses and earn an associate degree at Walters State.

They can then transfer to a Tennessee public university as a junior, with their completed pathway credits applying toward their bachelor's degree. Transfer opportunities are also available at many private universities, depending on the institution and program.

“There's a misconception that students who begin at a community college might lose credits when they transfer to a university,” said Dr. Brock Fisher, vice president for academic affairs at Walters State. “The Tennessee Transfer Pathway program is designed to address exactly that concern. Students can begin their education at Walters State knowing they have a clear academic plan for completing their bachelor's degree.”

Transfer Options Beyond the Pathways

The 50 Tennessee Transfer Pathways aren't the only options for students planning to continue their education.

More than 60 additional majors are covered through articulation agreements or through course-by-course transfer arrangements.

Articulation agreements establish how coursework from Walters State can apply toward specific programs at other institutions. For students pursuing majors outside the Tennessee Transfer Pathway program, individual courses may also transfer depending on the university and degree program.

The key is planning ahead. Students should work with an academic advisor to understand which credits will transfer and how those credits will apply toward their intended bachelor's degree.

What Students Should Know

Whether you're exploring your options or already have a university in mind, Senators Central can connect you with an academic advisor who can help you plan your next steps.

Call 423-585-2600 or email senatorscentralFREEWS. You can also visit Senators Central in person:

• Morristown: Student Services Building, U109.
• Sevierville Campus: Maples-Marshall, Room 100.
• Claiborne Campus: Room 026.
• Niswonger Campus: Room 108.

“Students don't have to figure out the transfer process on their own,” said Dr. Angi Smith, vice president for student affairs at Walters State. “Our advisors work with students to understand their goals, identify the right courses and develop a plan for reaching the next step in their education. Whether a student knows exactly where they want to transfer or is still exploring their options, we're here to help them make informed decisions.”