Illustration Credit: Zach Ruiz
As enrollment begins for summer and fall 2025, adult students may be spending long periods in front of their computer, trying to match up transferred credits, navigate new degree requirements, and understand common core requirements. Your UHD advisor will be a valuable resource to guide you with planning for success.
The common core courses are required by the State of Texas, also known as the Texas Core Curriculum. These courses are a part of the 42-semester-credit-hour degree plan for all Texas undergraduates. UHD refers to its core requirements as Common Core Requirements.
Transferring to a new college with previously earned credits can be both exciting and challenging. While these credits represent valuable academic work you have already completed, understanding how they apply to your new institution’s graduation requirements often requires careful planning.
Many students discover that credits from community colleges, previous universities, or even military experience may transfer differently than expected, potentially affecting their projected graduation timeline.
The common core curriculum requirements at UHD, or other institutions, can present particular hurdles when transferring. Most colleges have specific general education courses, or “core requirements” that all students must complete regardless of their major.
Even with substantial transfer credits, you may find that some of these core requirements remain unfulfilled due to differences in course content, credit hours, or institutional standards. This is where detailed transcript evaluation becomes essential to determine which requirements have been satisfied and which still need attention. Meeting with your advisor is critical to making sure that you take progressive steps to finish your degree.
UHD’s academic advisors understand the nuances of transfer credit policies and can help you navigate the sometimes-complex requirements for your specific degree program.
“We genuinely care about your success here, and that’s why meeting with your advisor is so important,” said Director of CHSS Advising Vanessa Rojas.
Schedule an appointment with your advisor as soon as possible after admission to review your transfer credit evaluation thoroughly. Come prepared with questions about how your previous coursework applies to your new degree path and be ready to discuss any courses that did not transfer as expected.
“Think of us as your partners in navigating college – we can help you understand what’s needed for your degree [and] map out the best courses for you,” Rojas said.
Working proactively with your advisor can reveal opportunities you might otherwise miss. They can identify course substitutions, credit by examination options, or petition processes that might help you avoid repeating similar coursework.
Rojas added that advisors can connect you with “exciting opportunities like internships that can really set you up for the future.”
In some cases, your advisor may recommend appealing certain transfer credit decisions if you believe a particular course should satisfy a requirement. This collaborative approach can potentially save you both time and tuition while ensuring you meet all necessary requirements.
“Honestly, our best days are when we get to cheer you on as you walk across that graduation stage, so please come chat with us; we’re here to support you every step of the way!” said Rojas.
Developing a comprehensive graduation plan with your advisor early in your transfer process provides a clear roadmap to your degree. This plan should outline the remaining requirements semester by semester, effectively incorporating any transfer credits.
Revisit this plan regularly with your advisor as you progress, especially if you are considering changing majors or adding minors, as these decisions can significantly impact how your transfer credits apply. With thoughtful planning and regular communication with your academic advisor, you can maximize the value of your transfer credits and create the most efficient path to graduation.