10 Online Colleges That Accept Transfer Credits in Massachusetts

Students often transfer schools to finish degree programs, but sometimes their college credits don't transfer. Finding a school that accepts transfer credits allows you to complete a bachelor's degree without retaking courses you've already completed.

Students looking to transfer to an online school in Massachusetts to finish their four-year degree have several options. Several top universities in Massachusetts offer online programs and accept transfer credits, making it easy for students to continue their higher education without going on campus.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept Transfer Credits in Massachusetts

Multiple schools in Massachusetts offer online bachelor's degrees. Because there are so many options, students should be able to find the right school for their educational goals. Prospective students should review the individual transfer policies of their new school before applying to make their transfer as smooth as possible.

Schools in the MASSTransfer program accept the 34 credit hours earned in this general education program. Students can complete their general education credits at any approved Massachusetts community college.

1. Northeastern University

Northeastern has 13 campuses in multiple countries. However, its primary campus is in Boston. In addition to these physical locations, NU has a diverse offering of online learning opportunities including multiple dual-degree programs that allow students to bring credits and work towards a bachelor's and a master's degree.

Transfer credit policies:

• courses must be completed at a university with regional or national accreditation
• students must have earned at least a C or 2.0 GPA in the course
• transfer evaluation happens after admission

2. Lasell University

Lasell University offers fully online courses to students throughout Massachusetts. LU's online degree options include undergraduate and graduate degrees. They also include many professional studies and certifications. College students enrolled in an online college degree program at LU receive virtual access to the same tech support and other resources as in-person students.

Transfer credit policies:

• LU accepts MASSTransfer General Education credits, allowing students to bring their 34 general education credits automatically
• Lasell University accepts up to 90 credits from accredited universities
• students must have a 2.0 or C at the time of application

3. University of Massachusetts-Lowell (UMass Lowell)

There are 11 online undergraduate degree programs offered at UMass Lowell. These high-quality programs include criminal justice, business administration, and more. Online students also qualify for financial aid programs which can help with the affordability of these bachelor's degree programs.

Transfer credit policies:

• UMass Lowell accepts up to 36 credits for associate degree transfer students and 90 for bachelor's degree programs
• International students can use credits earned in their home nations before transferring to UMass Lowell, but transcripts must be translated into English

4. Cambridge College

Cambridge College offers online programs with an emphasis on flexible scheduling and affordability. The online education courses at Cambridge College are designed for working adults to fit in coursework around other responsibilities, like a current job and their family. Available degree programs include healthcare administration, computer science, and more.

Transfer credit policies:

• students must complete one-quarter of their undergraduate credits at CC
• credit hours must be earned from an accredited institution with a 2.0 GPA or C

5. Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg State University offers multiple fully online programs, including an accelerated business administration program with five concentrations. Students at Fitchburg State have access to various resources to make their online education productive.

Transfer credit policies:

• Fitchburg State accepts up to 90 credit hours, but students must complete half of their major coursework and one-quarter of their total credits at Fitchburg
• FSU participates in MASSTransfer
• transfer students with fewer than 23 credit hours will need a 2.5 GPA and meet first-year admission requirements, students with 24 credit hours will need a 2.0 GPA

6. University of Massachusetts Amherst - University Without Walls

The University Without Walls is a fully online college offered through UMass Amherst. Students can complete a bachelor's degree through the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies. This program allows students to complete a degree program in 40 different academic departments, including liberal arts, human services, and health sciences, from the top-ranking online college in the New England area.

Transfer credit policies:

• students must have a minimum of 12 credit hours but not more than 75 from an accredited college
• students must have a 2.0 GPA from their previous schools
• UWW is part of the MASSTransfer program to meet general education requirements

7. Nichols College

Nichols College offers 27 total undergraduate degree programs and certificate programs. Transferring to Nichols College allows students to complete a degree program with multiple specially accredited paths like sports management. Students can take accelerated online classes to speed up their degree path.

Transfer credit policies:

• students can bring their entire associate degree through the Community College ABLE Initiative
• students without a degree can bring up to 90 transfer credits
• students with qualifying work experience can earn up to 45 credits upon transferring

8. Boston University

Boston University is a top-ranked university that offers on-campus and distance education enrollment opportunities to in-state and out-of-state learners. BU offers a wide selection of concentrations and certificates for students.

Transfer credit policies:

• transferring students must fill out the common application and application essay
• students must also submit a transfer report and transcripts for their previous college and high school

9. Westfield State University

Westfield State University offers students multiple opportunities to complete their degree programs. In-state and out-of-state students can choose from 10 degree programs, including history, marketing, and liberal studies. Students transferring from a non-community college must meet with an academic advisor before transferring.

Transfer credit policies:

• students who qualify for MASSTransfer must file a free application and submit official transcripts
• students who didn't complete a program at a community college will also need to submit their high school transcripts
• transferring students can submit an optional essay and letters of recommendation

10. Simmons University

Simmons University was founded in the late 19th century and included a diverse selection of online programs in 2013. Simmons was originally a women's college but now accepts all students. Students at Simmons can pursue 13 undergraduate degree programs in areas of study like social work, computer science, and applied psychology.

Transfer credit policies:

• students must have completed more than 16 credit hours
• SU accepts up to 96 credit hours
• students must submit high school and college transcripts, an essay, and one letter of recommendation

How We Rank Schools

When selecting online colleges in Massachusetts that accept transfer credits, we look for institutions that prioritize flexibility, affordability, and strong student support. Each college featured offers accredited programs and clear policies for evaluating prior coursework.

• Accreditation: Every listed school is accredited by a recognized regional agency, ensuring transfer credits meet national academic standards.
• Credit transfer policy: We evaluate each college’s maximum transfer limit, GPA requirements, and participation in programs like MASSTransfer that simplify the process.
• Affordability: Schools are chosen for offering competitive tuition rates, financial aid, and scholarships to support transfer students.
• Program reputation: Each institution is recognized for quality online programs, faculty support, and student satisfaction across Massachusetts.

How To Transfer College Credits Step by Step

Transferring college credits in Massachusetts can help you save time and tuition as you work toward completing your degree. Below are three simple steps to make the process easier.

1. Research Transfer Policies and Agreements

Start by confirming that your current school is accredited and whether your new institution participates in the MASSTransfer program. Many Massachusetts colleges automatically accept general education credits from state community colleges through this system.

2. Submit Transcripts and Supporting Documentation

Request official transcripts from each institution you’ve attended and send them to your new college’s admissions office. Some universities may also require test results, syllabi, or work experience documentation for credit evaluation.

3. Confirm Credit Evaluation and Degree Requirements

Once your credits are reviewed, you’ll receive an evaluation showing which courses transferred. Meet with an academic advisor to finalize your degree plan and ensure all applicable credits are applied correctly.

FAQs About Using Transfer Credits

If you’re planning to transfer schools in Massachusetts, understanding how transfer credits work can help you make a smooth transition. Below are answers to a few common questions about using transfer credits.

Should I Transfer Schools?

You may want to transfer if your current college doesn’t offer the program you need or if you’re seeking more affordable tuition. Many students also transfer for better online options that fit around work and family responsibilities.

Before deciding, take time to compare schools and review their transfer policies. This helps ensure your decision supports both your educational and financial goals.

What Can Be Used as Transfer Credits?

Most Massachusetts colleges accept credits earned through accredited institutions, but some schools go beyond traditional coursework. Many also award credit for AP or CLEP exams, military service, or relevant professional experience.

If you completed the MASSTransfer program, your 34 general education credits are typically guaranteed to transfer. Always verify credit eligibility with your new school’s admissions office.

Will My Credits Transfer?

Most accredited schools in Massachusetts accept general education and elective courses from other institutions. However, major-specific courses are reviewed on a case-by-case basis for compatibility.

You can use tools like Transferology or your college’s online transfer guide to check course equivalencies in advance. Confirming details early ensures you don’t lose valuable credits.

How Many Credits Can I Transfer?

Most online colleges in Massachusetts allow students to transfer up to 90 credits toward a bachelor’s degree. This policy helps many transfer students complete their programs faster and reduce the overall cost of earning a degree.

Each institution sets its own credit cap and residency requirement for graduation. Checking these details early ensures your prior coursework applies efficiently and keeps your academic plan on track.

Find Flexible Online Degrees

Finishing your degree in Massachusetts is easier when you choose a transfer-friendly college that values your prior work. Explore accredited online programs through Learn.org to find schools that make continuing your education more convenient and affordable.