Transfer and Time to Degree: A Quasi-Experimental Study of Credits, Preparation, and Pace

• In Event: Poster Session 1
  In Poster Session: Posters Related to College and University Student Access

Abstract

A growing number of college students are formally transferring or taking credits at institutions other than the one that conferred their degree. Many, including 78 percent of bachelor’s degree completers in Texas, take at least one applicable course at a community college. While promoting student access to higher education, the literature suggests transfer is also a significant contributor to extensions in time to degree. I use propensity score matching to identify the effect of transfer statewide in Texas while controlling for differences in student populations at 2- and 4-year institutions. This study will inform the design of policies to accelerate time to degree in a high-stakes policy environment in Texas.

Author

• Jenna Cullinane, The University of Texas - Austin