How course translations are determined

Course translations are determined by comparing your transfer college’s course catalog descriptions against WCC’s current catalog course descriptions. Courses can be transferred in as:

1. A direct course match to a WCC catalog course.
2. If there is not a direct match, then a translation can possibly be made by finding a WCC course that is similar/parallel to the transfer course.
3. If the course is not a match and does not parallel a WCC course, then translations can be made by reviewing the transfer college’s degree requirements or General University Requirements (GURs).

When a transfer course matches a WCC course

• Example: The transfer college’s HIST 111 matches Whatcom’s HIST 210. It would be noted as HIST 210 TR.  TR identifies a transfer course.
• Exceptions are writing (w) and sustainability(s). In order for a transferred-in course to receive the (w) or (s) designator, the sending institution must have designated the course as a writing intensive or sustainability course. If not, then students must have the college send course syllabi to WCC's evaluation department (Records and Registration Office) so they can be reviewed by a WCC faculty instructor.

When a course from another college is not equivalent to a course at WCC

Example: The transfer college’s GEOL 255 does not match any WCC course. Translations then are made by assigning a generic number. The generic number titles state the discipline such as humanities, social behavioral, math science, listed transferable electives or unlisted non-transferable electives and designator w d g s.

Generic numbers are assigned as follows:

• 600/650 generally satisfy an AAS distribution category.
• 670 generally satisfy an AAS listed elective category.
• 690 generally satisfy an AAS unlisted elective category.
• To see how other courses transfer please meet with an academic advisor.

Semester credit conversions

Semester credits are multiplied by 1.5 to convert to quarter credits. For example, a 3-credit semester course will convert to a 4.5 credit quarter course. Generally, if there is a shortage of credits due to the conversion, then the credit balance can be satisfied in electives. See an advisor for specific details for your transfer credit situation. 

Common course numbering (CCN)

Common Course Numbering (CCN) is a state-wide project among the community and technical colleges to share identical Course ID’s (disciplines and numbers) and titles for selected courses. Courses that WCC translates as CCN may or may not be considered common at other institutions; therefore, if you plan to transfer from WCC to other institutions, check with their advising centers as to how your prior institution(s) and WCC courses will be accepted.

Questions?

If you have questions, please stop by the Records and Registration office in Laidlaw Center 102. We will need to see your photo ID to speak specifically about your academic records.