This bill amends the existing collective Statewide transfer and reverse transfer agreements for public higher education institutions in New Jersey, while establishing the position of the New Jersey Transfer Ombudsperson within the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education. It mandates that all public institutions participate in a collective Statewide transfer agreement developed by the New Jersey Presidents Council, in consultation with the Ombudsperson and approved by the Secretary of Higher Education. This agreement aims to streamline the transfer of academic credits, including those from dual or concurrent enrollment programs, and includes policies for the transfer and application of credits for general education courses and baccalaureate degree programs.

The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the New Jersey Transfer Ombudsperson, who will assist students and institutions with compliance issues and mediate disputes. The Ombudsperson is tasked with conducting periodic reviews of the transfer agreement every five years and preparing an annual credit transfer report. Notably, the bill removes the requirement for an annual review and update of the collective agreements and clarifies that the Ombudsperson does not have the authority to compel institutions to accept credits. Additionally, it requires the Secretary of Higher Education to approve any dual enrollment agreements involving out-of-state institutions, thereby enhancing the overall transfer process and supporting the academic success of transfer students in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:62-46, 18A:62-46.1, 18A:62-47, 18A:62-49