How Equivalencies work in DegreeSight

Three Main Types of Equivalency Algorithms

Understanding how equivalencies work is key to leveraging DegreeSight’s full potential. This guide outlines the three main types of equivalencies - Equivalencies, Exams, and Transfer Networks - and explains rule prioritization and institutional policies.

Equivalencies

Equivalencies are at the heart of the DegreeSight system. They refer to the direct relationship between courses offered at different institutions. For example, a Biology 101 course at a community college might be equivalent to a Biology 1010 course at a university. These equivalencies ensure students receive appropriate credit for their completed coursework when transferring.

Equivalencies within DegreeSight are controlled by:

• Sending Institution, the Course Code, and Course Title

• Start Date and End Date (used to represent catalog years and versioning over time)

• Minimum Grade

Course Equivalencies within DegreeSight operate on a many-to-many basis.

“Exams”

“Exams” in DegreeSight refer to standardized tests or assessments like AP, IB, or CLEP exams. Scores from these exams are translated into college credits based on predetermined criteria. For instance, a score of 4 on the AP Biology exam might be equivalent to completing an introductory biology course at a university.

Exams are controlled by:

• Exam Name

• Minimum Grade

Exam rules within DegreeSight operate on a one-to-many basis.

In addition, you may have multiple rules saved for the same input Exam using different Minimum Grades, and the system will grant the appropriate received courses based on the highest grade requirement met.

Transfer Networks

Transfer Networks represent agreements between institutions, often within the same region or system, to accept credits interchangeably. DegreeSight’s system maps these networks, allowing for smoother credit transfer between participating schools. This feature is particularly beneficial for students transferring within a network, as it offers a broader range of course equivalencies.

Network rules operate on a course -> network course -> course model

Rule prioritization (when multiple rules could be applied)

If a course meets both an Equivalency Rule as well as a Transfer Network rule, the Equivalency Rule will take precedence.

• Institutional policies and defaults