Common Questions
1. Can I transfer unused masters credits from another University?
Enrolled students may apply to their assigned advisor to transfer unused credits from a recognized university into the MA in K-12 Administration degree program. Advisors consider the equivalency of the coursework to our degree program requirements and electives. Transferred credits may not be more than 5 years old at the time a student completes (not enters) his or her MA degree. No more than 8 credits can be transferred into the program from another university. No more than 10 credits from any source—transfer and/or life long learning and/ or graduate certificate, can be carried over into a degree program.
2. I have “Life Long Learner” or “Graduate Certificate” credits. Can I apply them to the MA in K-12 Administration degree program?
“Life long learner” and “Graduate certificate” are registration categories used when students who are not admitted into any degree program take a class at MSU. Student may transfer no more than 10 credits total from life long learner and/or graduate certificate and/or other university course work. In other words, students must earn a minimum of 20 credits as admitted degree program students. Credits transferred into a degree program cannot be more than 5 years old at the time a student completes (not enters) his or her MA degree program. ** Students are warned that MSU’s registration system allows individuals to register for classes without being an admitted degree program student. Do not make the mistake of thinking that because you succeed in registering for classes and taking classes that you are therefore admitted. You must apply to the program and be accepted. You will not be able to transfer more than 10 credits taken before being admitted (i.e. under Life Long or Graduate Certificate status) into your MA in K-12 Administration degree.
3. I graduated from MSU’s 5th year Teacher Intern program. How many credits may I transfer?
The K-12 Administration program accepts 6 credits from MSU student’s 5th year teacher intern program.
4. What are PID and PAN numbers and are they important?
A PID is your student identification number at Michigan State University. Use of the PID eliminates using your social security number. A PAN is your 4 digit code for registering for classes. Do not share these numbers with others. Visit the following website to get information on how to activate your account: http://techbase.msu.edu/article.asp?id=139&service=techbase
5. Is there a time limit for earning this degree?
The time limit policy for masters degree set by the Graduate School of Michigan State University is 5 years. The 5-year window begins with the date of the earliest credits in the degree program; this includes any transfer, Life Long or Graduate Certificate credits transferred into the degree program. Students who encounter events that make it difficult to complete the degree within 5 years can speak to their advisor about applying for a time extension. In general, extensions are considered for students who graduated from MSU’s 5th year Teacher Internship program and for students who take medical, maternity or paternity leave during the program.
