Making a plan for a 2-year

making a plan for a 2-year

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Congratulations on deciding that a 2-year college is the right choice for you! Community College is a great place to explore your interests, learn about different career paths, and build your transcript. Deciding on a school is a huge step, but now it’s time to create a plan for your time at that school. When attending any college it’s important to have some direction. Remember, every class you take costs you time and money. While this is a time to explore your interests, you want to make sure that your classes are moving you towards your end goal.

Here are some of the questions you should be asking yourself as you develop your plan:

What do I want to major in?
What classes do I need to take for that major?
How many credits do I need to graduate?
How many credits will my scholarship or financial aid cover?
Will my credits transfer to a 4-year university?

doing your research - use your resources!

Your College Adviser

If you’re unsure where to start your college adviser is a great place! Your adviser can brainstorm with you about your interests and what classes and programs align.

Your Colleges' Website

Try searching “school name, degrees/programs” to find a list of the degrees offered and the classes required.

You can also find information about the number of credits needed to graduate, how financial aid works, full vs. part time student status, and more.

Most associate degrees require 60 credits, which if you’re a full time student takes about 2 years. Skilled trade and certificate programs are typically shorter. This can vary by school or program, but is a good benchmark as you create your timeline.

Your College's Academic Adviser

Your academic advisor is one of the most important people in your community college experience. You will meet with them to pick out and register for classes, check your degree progress, and transfer your credits if that’s your goal.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to your adviser as often as necessary. Their job is to help you take the right classes and earn your degree.

TIP: ask your college adviser to introduce you to your academic adviser or set up a meeting together before you graduate!

Roadmap to Opportunity

Check out this awesome resource about some of the most high-demand, high-wage jobs in Michigan and their degree requirements.

Note there are many different pathways you can take to reach your goal!

the transfer process

Overview

If you plan to transfer to a 4-year university, be strategic about what courses you take at community college vs. university.

There are many ways to transfer credits from community college to university.

- - You can transfer a single class, multiple classes, or your entire associate’s degree.

Many students take their general education courses or “gen-eds” at community college, as they are the easiest and most likely to transfer.

- - Gen-eds are the classes that you typically take as a freshmen that lay the foundation for high level courses in your field. Think English 101, Introduction to college algebra, etc.
  - With these classes under your belt, you can take your upper level classes at your university, which will be more specific to your major or program.

Who to Contact

Your community college academic adviser will be your best resource as you plan how to transfer your credits. Make sure to meet with them before each semester to make sure the classes you are taking will transfer to your 4-year college.

You should also stay in contact with an adviser at your 4-year institution to make sure that the transfer process is smooth. They can also help you make sure your scholarships and financial aid are in order before you transfer.

Michigan Transfer Agreement (MTA)

The Michigan Transfer Agreement is what allows you to transfer your general education requirements from community college to your university.

Explore the MTA website to learn more about the different transfer options and how to get started.

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