Some students will complete undergraduate studies by attending a community college then transferring to a local public university. We call this the “feeder school trend.”

Instead of completing all four years of undergraduate study at a university or college, a student will spend his or her first two years at a community college, then transfer to a college or university to complete the final two years.

Community colleges and state universities have developed “articulation agreements,” agreements between community colleges and four-year colleges and universities that recognize the credits earned toward degree programs at a four-year institution. The Associate’s degree you earn will essentially cover your freshman and sophomore credits. Institutions in 28 states including Maryland, California, and Arizona have adopted these academic policies. Take a look at the College Partnerships and Articulation Agreement chart to see if schools in your state have these beneficial agreements.

Many students are choosing this route because they can earn credits at a significantly lower cost while preparing academically to attend a four-year program. Increasing percentages of transfer students are students from community colleges. We encourage you to explore this option.