Popularize associate degrees. Community colleges can help students plan an upward transfer by advising them to pursue associate (A.A. or A.S.) degrees. Associate degrees can enable direct admission to four-year institutions and allow flexibility for students who are unsure about where to go or which major to pursue. They also require the same number of core coursework credits to be completed during the first two years of most four-year degree programs. With the associate degree as the initial target, advisers and faculty can anchor their guidance toward the four-year institution(s) that best align with the continuation of the student’s academic pursuits.
"I think I’m ready to transfer
to a four-year institution."
Common Student Concerns
Page 1 of 6
• Which schools will allow me
the most scheduling flexibility?
• What is the most affordable
credit pathway to my degree?
• Am I registering for the right courses?
ALIGNMENT
Strategies to Support Transfer Students
Streamline transfer pathways. Community colleges should evaluate the fit between their academic portfolio and local and regional job markets, and seek compatibility with the degree programs, credentials and certifications offered by compatible regional four-year institutions to ensure that the pathways to success align. Four-year institutions should do the same and communicate these collaborations to students considering transferring.
COMPATIBILITY
Strategies to Support Transfer Students
• Which institutions recognize
the progress and investment
I’ve already made?
• How complicated are the
deadlines and requirements?
"I think I’m ready to transfer
to a four-year institution."
Common Student Concerns
Page 2 of 6
Recognize student academic achievements. To support community college students’ transition to four-year institutions and increase the attractiveness of their own institution, four-year institutions can ensure students receive adequate credit for their accomplishments and core coursework. Credit approval should happen quickly and efficiently.
PROGRESS
Strategies to Support Transfer Students
• How many of my credits will
count toward my degree, and
will I find out before I enroll?
• How soon can I take courses
in my major?
"I’m ready to cross the bridge.
What happens next?"
Common Student Concerns
Page 3 of 6
Create off-ramps for reverse transfer students. As
student populations grow more diverse, four-year institutions will need flexible off-ramps so that learners can shift to a two-year institution when their financial, family or academic needs demand it, without putting their education on pause. Tracking and supporting these students after they stop out or attend a two-year program part time can lead to reenrollment in the four-year degree later.
FLEXIBILITY
Strategies to Support Transfer Students
• If I can’t enroll for a semester,
how will I stay on track for the
following term?
• Are there resources specifically
for transfer students?
"I’m ready to cross the bridge.
What happens next?"
Common Student Concerns
Page 4 of 6
Nurture partnerships for dual enrollment and bolster transfer advising. Proactive, intentional collaboration between postsecondary institutions can play a major role in the success of transfer programs by ensuring transfer students do not fall through the cracks. Strong relationships and regular communication between faculty and advising staff at community colleges and four-year institutions can help institutions position themselves as strong feeder and receiving schools in their local or regional academic community.
MOBILITY
Strategies to Support Transfer Students
• Can I take a few courses to test
the water before transferring?
• How do I get the financial aid
package and counseling I need?
• I wish I had known that my
federal aid would be allocated
across both schools. How
much is left?
"I’m ready to cross the bridge.
What happens next?"
Common Student Concerns
Page 5 of 6
Innovate to support the whole student. Consider the wraparound services that best support a broad range of students with needs ranging from child care and technology access to healthcare and counseling services. Establish external partnerships to provide holistic student services.
SUPPORT
Strategies to Support Transfer Students
• I’m older than other students;
will I fit into the community?
• Am I going to be able
to balance my work and
family responsibilities?
• What student services and
academic resources are available?
"I’m ready to cross the bridge.
What happens next?"
Common Student Concerns
Page 6 of 6