How to Choose a Community College

Every year the number of students applying for admission at Community Colleges continues to rise. These schools have the ability to allow anyone access to higher education without steep requirements. Community college offers this advantage over traditional 4-year colleges. Its important that to choose a community college that can help meet your educational goals.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Get feedback from alumni. Speak to family and friends that attended a community college. Find out about the quality of education that was offered and the ability to gain assistance from professors when needed.

2. Go on a tour. Visit community colleges in your area to compare other benefits besides education. Consider the community projects, athletics, clubs, student run publications and other activities of interest.

3. Take into account the price. Community colleges offer huge savings. Work out the expenses for tuition and books. Check on financial assistance or scholarships that the school offers.

4. Review the classroom environment. Check on the class size and the education of the professors to ensure you receive the necessary hands on experience and expertise.

5. Look for flexibility. Select a community college that meets the demands of your lifestyle. Pick a school that offers day and night time classes, as well as online courses.

6. Find a college with job assistance. Look for a college that provides assistance with transitioning into the job market. Review job placement history for graduates.

7. Research transfer requirements. Transferring credits or an associates degree to a 4-year college might be difficult. Choose a college that has an articulation agreement. These agreements ensure that any credits taken at the community college can be transferred to a 4-year college.

Tips & Warnings

• Some states provide articulation agreements where any degree obtained at a community college system in the state is transferable to a state college.
• Community colleges offer huge saving on room and board and living expenses compared to 4-year colleges.
• Not all community colleges offer articulation agreements. Some articulation agreements may only apply to specific colleges or specific associate degrees.

Resources

• Find a community college at AACC.

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