THEC Launches Transfer Ready Campus Designation to Recognize Institutions Supporting Student Success

THEC Media Contact
Jessie Greene
[email protected]
Press Release

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) today announced the launch of the Transfer Ready Campus Designation, a new statewide initiative recognizing public and private colleges that prioritize transfer student success by removing barriers, reducing credit loss and providing resources and support.

For Tennesseans who choose to transfer colleges, the designation provides a clear signal that a college is committed to helping students continue moving toward their goals. Transfer Ready Campuses work to ensure students receive appropriate credit for previous learning, avoid unnecessary loss of time and credits, and have access to the resources and support they need to succeed.

The designation is authorized under Tennessee law, which directs THEC to recognize public and private nonprofit institutions committed to improving outcomes for students with transfer credit.

"I am truly excited about this program and what it means for Tennesseans in their transfer journey," said Dr. Tracy Comer, THEC Senior Director of Transfer & Veteran Initiatives. "The Transfer Ready Campus designation assures that transfer students in Tennessee are entering an environment that fosters their sense of belonging and offers the necessary support and resources for their success."

To earn the designation, institutions must demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting transfer students in key areas, including:

• Making credits count: Helping students transfer credits efficiently and avoid taking unnecessary courses.

• Building strong transfer pathways: Working with other colleges and universities to create clear paths for students to transfer.

• Helping students transition: Providing information and resources to help students navigate the transfer process.

• Supporting student success: Connecting transfer students with academic, financial and other resources they need to succeed.

• Preparing campus staff: Ensuring faculty and staff understand the needs of transfer students and know how to support them.

• Improving the transfer experience: Using student feedback and data to identify barriers and make transfer policies and practices better.

Institutions must meet all criteria and provide supporting documentation to receive the designation.

"Transfer students bring valuable experiences, credits and momentum with them when they move between institutions," said Dr. Steven Gentile, THEC Executive Director. "Our goal is to make sure that momentum is not lost. The Transfer Ready Campus Designation recognizes institutions that are taking intentional steps to create a more seamless, supportive and student-centered transfer experience."

The Transfer Ready Campus Designation builds on Tennessee's longstanding efforts to create clearer, more seamless pathways for students moving between institutions and is anchored in the three cornerstones of Tennessee's Higher Education Master Plan : aligned, achievable and agile. By recognizing institutions committed to transfer student success, THEC aims to elevate effective practices across Tennessee and help students make informed decisions about where they continue their education.

Institutions interested in pursuing the Transfer Ready Campus Designation can review the criteria and application process on THEC's Transfer Ready Campus webpage.

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About the Tennessee Higher Education Commission

The Tennessee Higher Education Commission was created in 1967 by the Tennessee General Assembly. As the state's higher education coordinating body, its mission is to build a strong higher education landscape that provides opportunities for all individuals to pursue high-quality education and high-value credentials.