FAQs about Academic Credit

Thomas Edison State College offers a range of credit-earning opportunities designed specifically for adult learners. From transferring previously earned college credits to offering credit for military training, we’ve created numerous programs that work around the unique needs of adults, enabling you to complete your degree.

Some details:

• Can I transfer my credits to Thomas Edison State College?
• How do I earn credit for knowledge I’ve gained outside the classroom?
• How many of my credits will you accept from other colleges or universities?
• Can I earn credit by “testing out” of a course?
• Can I earn credit for my corporate training?
• Can I earn credit for military training?
• Can I earn credit for professional certifications or licenses I have earned?
• Can I earn credit for life experience at Thomas Edison State College?
• Do I need to take all my courses at Thomas Edison State College?

Can I transfer my credits to Thomas Edison State College?
Yes. Actually, most of our students transfer their previously earned college credits to Thomas Edison State College to speed the completion of their degrees.  Learn more...

How do I earn credit for knowledge I’ve gained outside the classroom?
Our Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) program gives you the opportunity to demonstrate college-level knowledge you’ve acquired outside the classroom and apply that knowledge toward a degree program. Browse all PLA courses.

How many of my credits will you accept from other colleges or universities?
We accept up to 80 credits earned from regionally accredited community colleges, and up to 120 credits from regionally accredited four-year institutions. More about transferring credits.

Can I earn credit by “testing out” of a course?
Yes. Our TECEP® program allows you to prepare for an exam that can earn you college credit. Browse list of available TECEP® tests. In addition, numerous other exam programs can earn you credit. More...

Can I earn credit for my corporate training?
Yes, some professional training courses have been approved for college credit by the American Council on Education (ACE). To learn if your company’s training courses have been evaluated by ACE, call (202) 939-9434

Can I earn credit for military training?
Yes. For nearly three decades, we’ve been meeting the unique educational needs of military personnel. More about our Military Degree Completion Program...

Can I earn credit for professional certifications or licenses I have earned?
Yes. Thomas Edison State College will award credit for current professional licenses and certifications that have been evaluated and approved for credit by the College’s Academic Council. More about credit for licenses and certifications...

Can I earn credit for life experience at Thomas Edison State College?
No. Thomas Edison State College does not award credit for life experience. Students at the College can demonstrate that they possess college-level knowledge acquired outside the classroom through our Prior Learning Assessment program.

Do I need to take all my courses at Thomas Edison State College?
No. Our flexible credit transfer program enables students to complete courses at other regionally accredited institutions and then transfer those credits into your degree program at Thomas Edison State College.