JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) – Education officials say new statewide requirements for similar basic classes at Missouri public colleges and universities will help ensure transfer students get credit.

A law set to take effect Aug. 28 calls for public colleges and universities to adopt 42 hours of general education credits that can be transferred. Leaders at the state’s public four-year and two-year associations say most Missouri community colleges and universities already have agreed to a similar policy that is voluntary. But the new law will catch any holdouts and give students who transfer more certainty.

Bill sponsor Rep. Travis Fitzwater says retaking basic courses is frustrating and expensive for students.
Public colleges and universities must implement the transfer policy starting in fall 2018.