As an academic advisor with experience in higher education, I can provide some insight into the grading system and the implications of a 'D' grade, particularly in the context of transfer credits.

Firstly, it's important to understand that grading systems can vary significantly from one educational institution to another. However, in many colleges and universities, a 'D' is considered a passing grade, meaning that a student has met the minimum requirements to pass a course. This is the case in the scenario you've described, where 'D' is officially a passing grade.

However, the acceptance of a 'D' grade for transfer credits is where things get a bit more nuanced. Transfer credits are credits that a student can bring with them when they transfer from one institution to another. The policies regarding transfer credits can be strict, and many institutions, like the one you've mentioned, require a minimum grade of 'C' or better for a course to be considered for transfer credit. This policy is in place for a few reasons:


1. Academic Rigor: Institutions want to ensure that the credits they accept are representative of a certain level of academic achievement. A 'C' or better is often seen as a benchmark that indicates a student has demonstrated a solid understanding of the course material.


2. Quality Assurance: By setting a minimum grade requirement, colleges can maintain a certain level of quality in the education they provide. It helps to ensure that students who transfer in have a strong foundation in their field of study.


3. Standardization: Different institutions may have different grading standards. By requiring a 'C' or better, colleges can standardize the quality of work that is considered acceptable for transfer.

Now, let's address the notion of a 'D' being a "we-don't-really-mean-it pass." While technically correct, this perspective underscores the fact that a 'D' is often seen as barely passing, and it may not reflect the level of proficiency that other institutions are looking for in a transfer student. It's a grade that suggests the student has met the minimum requirements but may not have a deep understanding of the course content.

In terms of the impact on students, a 'D' grade can have several consequences:


1. Limited Transferability: As mentioned, many institutions will not accept a 'D' for transfer credit, which can limit a student's ability to apply their previous coursework towards a new degree program.


2. Academic Standing: A 'D' grade can affect a student's GPA and overall academic standing, which can have implications for scholarships, financial aid, and even future employment opportunities.


3. Perception: A 'D' can create a perception of lower academic ability, which might influence how a student is viewed by future professors or employers.

In conclusion, while a 'D' is a passing grade, its acceptance for transfer credit is contingent on the policies of the receiving institution. It's always advisable for students to aim for higher grades to maximize their opportunities for transfer and to ensure they have a strong academic record. It's also important for students to understand the policies of the institutions they are considering transferring to, to avoid any surprises regarding the acceptance of their credits.

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My cc, like most colleges, doesn't give incoming transfer credit for courses in which a student got a 'D.' The standard is a C or better, even though a 'D' is officially a passing grade. Technically, a 'D' is passing, but it's a sort of a we-don't-really-mean-it pass. A grudging pass, or perhaps a mercy pass.Mar 21, 2017read more >>