Exploring the Successes and Challenges of Diploma to Degree Transfers

Authors
Conestoga College
G. Gorman
C. Phelps
R. Carley
Reference Number
2012-04
Date
Status
Abstract
Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, the present study examined the experiences and outcomes of diploma to degree transfer students at Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Applied Learning. Generally, the results of this study show positive support for the credit transfer and pathway initiatives implemented by the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities, in that transfer students tend to experience high levels of academic success in their postsecondary education pathway. Subjectively, the study also demonstrated that students identified the positive value of obtaining a college degree. Using structured interviews, we found that students generally had a positive experience with their chosen pathway through their postsecondary education (PSE) experience. For those students who transferred in from a diploma, instead of viewing their diploma program as having been merely a means to get them into degree studies , students also saw added value in taking the diploma prior to entering the degree program. Many felt that their Diploma level study provided them with practical, hands-on experience, and that their program gave them a unique perspective not shared by non-transfer students...