An individual enrolled at one educational institution temporarily, with the intent to earn credits applicable toward a degree or program at another institution, can be described as engaging in transient enrollment. For example, a student pursuing a bachelor’s degree at University A may take a summer course at University B, subsequently transferring the course credit back to University A.
This form of enrollment offers flexibility and opportunity for academic enrichment. Students can leverage specialized courses or unique learning environments not available at their home institution. Historically, the rise of online education and articulation agreements between institutions has facilitated increased participation in transient enrollment. This can accelerate degree completion or allow access to required courses that may be impacted at the student’s primary school.