By David Hall, Director of Academic Advisement
What is your career goal? Do you know if this will require a certificate, an associate degree, or an associate degree that leads to university transfer? If your goal requires university transfer, Rio Salado College offers resources to help you have a smooth transition to your future university.
Preparing to transfer from a community college to a university is a significant step in your academic journey. To ensure a smooth transition, consider the following steps:
- Early Planning - Start planning your transfer early, ideally when you begin your studies at Rio Salado College. Your academic advisor will help you create an academic plan that will map out the courses you will need to complete.
- Take an FYE Course - If you are new to Rio Salado College and Maricopa Community Colleges and pursuing a degree, you will be required to take a first-year experience course.
- Research Universities - Identify potential universities you want to transfer to. Consider factors like the online or in-person availability, academic programs, cost, and admission requirements.
- Determine Admission Deadlines - Submit your transfer application according to the university's deadlines. Research what documents will be required such as official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
- Maintain a Good GPA - Universities often have minimum GPA requirements for transfer students. Aim to maintain a good GPA throughout your community college studies.
- Financial Planning - Investigate financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Understand the cost of attending the university and plan accordingly.
Read the entire Ask an Advisor: Planning for University Transfer blog.
Meet Gabe Hagen
Gabe Hagen earned an associate degree in paralegal from Rio Salado College in 2015, and transferred his credits to Arizona State University where he earned bachelor’s degrees in political science and philosophy.
"I decided to go to Rio for a few reasons. First, it was affordable. Second, I wanted to explore a legal career, and third, Rio offered a pathway to Arizona State University. As a working student, attending a regular in-person class was difficult but Rio’s flexibility allowed me the freedom to plan my classes around my job and family obligations.”
Learn More
Want to learn more about the transfer process? Join in any of the upcoming, in-person events held at Maricopa Community Colleges.