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Sorry about all the college questions and everything, but i'm lost. I was looking into colleges and I discovered instead of NCSU I want to go to UF (University of Florida). They offer higher diplomas for Zoology. I also know I need to do core classes first but this is what confuses me. Where do I take them and if I choose to transfer credits over to UF, Is it even possible ?

I'm getting more confused the more I look into it.

Thank you comment icon Zoey, Dr. H gave you the best advice: **start at a community college** to knock out your core classes cheaply, then transfer. UF has transfer agreements, so work with their advisors to make sure your credits count. Fred also nailed it—if by "higher diplomas" you mean a Master's or PhD, you **must** finish a Bachelor's first. That **doesn't** have to be from UF. You can do your undergrad elsewhere and still get into UF for grad school. Bottom line: **Plan your transfers wisely, talk to UF’s admissions, and don’t waste time on credits that won’t count.** Mr. Trish

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Dr’s Answer

Hey Zoey! No worries about all the college questions – it's totally normal to feel lost when figuring out the next steps! I love that you’re exploring options and considering UF for Zoology – it’s an amazing school with great programs! Let’s break this down and clear up some confusion. 🤗 sooo...

1. Alright, you’re thinking about starting with core classes (like English, Math, and Science) and transferring to UF later? That’s a smart move! Starting at a community college, especially in Georgia or nearby, will save you a ton of money while you knock out those general education courses. Once you finish around 60-80 credits (that’s usually 2 years’ worth), you can transfer those credits over to UF. Most community colleges have transfer agreements with big schools, so it’s a pretty smooth process.

2. If you’re in college now or plan to be, it’s a good idea to chat with a transfer advisor at UF. They can check which of your credits will transfer and fit into their program. They’ll help make sure you’re on the right track, and you won’t waste any time or money on classes that don’t count toward your degree.

3. “Higher Diplomas” (Masters/PhD): I think when you mention “higher diplomas,” you’re talking about a Masters or PhD, right? You’ll definitely need to finish your Bachelor’s degree first (which can be from any school, not necessarily UF). You can even do your Bachelor’s at one school and then apply for your Masters at another, which is pretty common! For example, you could finish your Bachelor’s at NCSU and go on to do a Masters at UF (or the other way around).

4. About Zoology: Just a little extra nugget of advice – Zoology is awesome, but make sure you’re thinking about the job market too. Before you dive into it, check if the career opportunities are strong in your area and if people are willing to pay for those skills! Websites like ONET (linked in the answer above) are perfect for seeing what jobs are available for your chosen field.

So, to sum it up:🤔

Start at a community college to save money.

Work with UF’s transfer advisors to make sure your credits will transfer.

Don’t worry if your Bachelor’s and Master’s are from different schools, that’s totally normal.

And choose a major you love (but also check job opportunities!).

Keep your chin up – you’re doing great by exploring all your options! And if you need more help, reach out to admissions at UF, or even community colleges around you, and they’ll guide you through it all. You got this! And don't be Afraid to reach out if you need to. All the best!
Thank you comment icon I will use this advice as I prepare for my career. Mina
Thank you comment icon Fanna Suzan, always great to have a mentor’s wisdom in the mix! Appreciate the support! Dr H
Thank you comment icon Happy to hear that Mina, use it wise and stay awesome. Dr H
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George’s Answer

Hi Zoey,

Thanks for reaching out with your questions! Here's what I suggest: Start at a community college in Georgia or where you currently live. Take your basic courses like English, Math, Social Science, and Science. Once you've completed about 60-80 credits, you can transfer them to your chosen school, like UF.

I'm curious, is there a reason you're not considering UGA? Before picking your community college classes, please talk to a UF or UGA admissions counselor. If you aim to attend UF or UGA, please avoid starting at a four-year college to save money. Community colleges nearby offer what you need. Alternatively, please consider Southern New Hampshire University or other online colleges after finishing 60 credits. Online schools can provide flexibility and remote learning.

Now, about your major. Please choose something you love and that has good job prospects. For example, if you choose Zoology, make sure there are job opportunities where people are willing to pay for your skills. Ensure there's a demand for your major and that it's something you enjoy. Check out the ONET Interest Profile: https://www.mynextmove.org/explore/ip

And as Fred mentioned, you'll need a bachelor's degree before pursuing a Master's or PhD.

And No, your Bachelor degree and Master degree do not need to be at the same college. Most Educators would encourage you study Bachelor's and Master's at two different institutions. For example, you can do Bachelor's at NCSU and Master's at UF or vice versa

Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn if you have more questions!
Thank you comment icon Thank you for giving me advice. Mina
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Fred’s Answer

Are you currently enrolled in a college/university? If so, you can probably reach out to UF and speak to a transfer specialist. They can look at what you've taken, and see what 'fits' into their program.

If not, you can just apply there.

Then, you mention "higher diplomas". If by that you mean a Masters or PhD, you have to get a bachelors degree first. That can be from ANY school, although a degree in a related field would be tremendously helpful. Near the end of that program, you'd apply to the UF Masters program.
Thank you comment icon I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question. Mina
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