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4 year university or community college and then transfer?
IF I change my mind about attending a 4 year university straight out of high school and decide to go to community college and transfer, which community colleges in San Diego offer the best chances of transferring to schools that have a good civil engineering, architecture, or construction management program?
Im a senior in high school and we are starting college applications. I’ve started taking in account for costs of tuition as well as room and board, and it’s looking too expensive. Therefore, I’ve been thinking about completing my general education in community college first and then transferring to get my bachelors. I know some community colleges do offer good internships as well as have connections.
Let me know what you think, thank you!
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16 answers
Updated
L’s Answer
Starting at a community college is a smart financial choice. You can save a lot on tuition, housing, and food while finishing general education courses.
In the San Diego area, consider San Diego Mesa College or San Diego City College. They are top choices in the county, making it easy to transfer to a major university. Students from these colleges can get guaranteed admission to San Diego State University (SDSU) if they meet the GPA and course requirements. Plus, both colleges are centrally located and offer great internship opportunities with local companies.
If you're aiming for competitive majors like Civil Engineering or Construction Management, focus on the right general education classes. Completing the lower-division major prerequisites and meeting the target GPA at these colleges guarantees admission to SDSU. Use ASSIST.org to find out which classes count toward your major.
Also, check out the San Diego Promise program. If you graduate from a California high school and enroll full-time at either college, you can get up to two years of free tuition. The application process typically opens in February and stays open through the spring and summer. However, funding is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it is extremely important to complete the requirements as soon as possible and apply the moment it opens to guarantee your spot.
Best of luck!
In the San Diego area, consider San Diego Mesa College or San Diego City College. They are top choices in the county, making it easy to transfer to a major university. Students from these colleges can get guaranteed admission to San Diego State University (SDSU) if they meet the GPA and course requirements. Plus, both colleges are centrally located and offer great internship opportunities with local companies.
If you're aiming for competitive majors like Civil Engineering or Construction Management, focus on the right general education classes. Completing the lower-division major prerequisites and meeting the target GPA at these colleges guarantees admission to SDSU. Use ASSIST.org to find out which classes count toward your major.
Also, check out the San Diego Promise program. If you graduate from a California high school and enroll full-time at either college, you can get up to two years of free tuition. The application process typically opens in February and stays open through the spring and summer. However, funding is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it is extremely important to complete the requirements as soon as possible and apply the moment it opens to guarantee your spot.
Best of luck!
Thank you, L!
yen
Leila Abdel, M.Ed
Associate Director of Placement Operations
5
Answers
Updated
Leila’s Answer
Community college is a great stepping stone to a 4-year university and has a lot of benefits! I recommend looking at the 4-year universities first, and seeing if they have any Community College pipelines. Some universities have "easier" transfer options where you complete 2 years, and then those credits transfer, and you finish your main major courses at the 4-year university. This is important because you don't want to complete 2 years worth of schooling, but then none of those courses transfer, and you need to repeat them again.
College is expensive, so I would also recommend looking at financial aid at both 4-year and community college options. You may find you qualify for financial aid and scholarships, and that will help take the burden off you or your family.
Internships and working is always a great option too. Internships allow you to get more experience in your desired field, and working (like work study jobs) help you with expenses while in college. Working at a community college or university will help provide more flexibility while you are in school, as they take into account your school schedule and that you are a student. If you work somewhere else, you may find the balance and scheduling to be a little harder, but not impossible!
Hope this helps, wishing you the best!
College is expensive, so I would also recommend looking at financial aid at both 4-year and community college options. You may find you qualify for financial aid and scholarships, and that will help take the burden off you or your family.
Internships and working is always a great option too. Internships allow you to get more experience in your desired field, and working (like work study jobs) help you with expenses while in college. Working at a community college or university will help provide more flexibility while you are in school, as they take into account your school schedule and that you are a student. If you work somewhere else, you may find the balance and scheduling to be a little harder, but not impossible!
Hope this helps, wishing you the best!
Thank you for your advice!
yen
Kris Cala, MHRM
Director, Healthcare Partnerships & Workforce Solutions
5
Answers
Updated
Kris’s Answer
Transferring from a community college can be a great option, especially in California.
If you're in San Diego and interested in civil engineering, consider San Diego Mesa College. They offer an engineering program with transferable courses like statics, dynamics, materials, CAD, and computational methods. They also have a Transfer Center to help you.
For architecture, check out Southwestern College. Their Architecture AS program is designed for transfer and includes design studios, structures, BIM/CAD, and portfolio development.
A key resource is ASSIST.org. This site shows which community college courses will transfer to a specific major at a CSU or UC.
Be cautious with majors like civil engineering and architecture. Don't just focus on completing general education. Courses in math, physics, engineering/design, and major prerequisites are crucial for a timely transfer.
Here's my advice:
1. Choose 3–4 potential four-year programs.
2. Use ASSIST.org to compare their required transfer courses.
3. Consult a transfer counselor before your first semester.
4. Inquire about internships, clubs, and employer connections.
If done wisely, starting at a community college can save you a lot of money without delaying your education.
If you're in San Diego and interested in civil engineering, consider San Diego Mesa College. They offer an engineering program with transferable courses like statics, dynamics, materials, CAD, and computational methods. They also have a Transfer Center to help you.
For architecture, check out Southwestern College. Their Architecture AS program is designed for transfer and includes design studios, structures, BIM/CAD, and portfolio development.
A key resource is ASSIST.org. This site shows which community college courses will transfer to a specific major at a CSU or UC.
Be cautious with majors like civil engineering and architecture. Don't just focus on completing general education. Courses in math, physics, engineering/design, and major prerequisites are crucial for a timely transfer.
Here's my advice:
1. Choose 3–4 potential four-year programs.
2. Use ASSIST.org to compare their required transfer courses.
3. Consult a transfer counselor before your first semester.
4. Inquire about internships, clubs, and employer connections.
If done wisely, starting at a community college can save you a lot of money without delaying your education.
Thank you so much for your advice!
yen
Updated
Cynthia’s Answer
I'm not too familiar with the San Diego area, but I can share how the community college-to-university path worked for me. Starting at a community college before moving to a four-year university was one of my best choices. It saved me a lot of money and helped me avoid student debt.
After getting my associate degree, I applied to a four-year university and was thrilled to receive a generous transfer scholarship along with financial aid. This meant I paid very little out of pocket for my bachelor's degree.
If you're worried about costs, I highly recommend looking into the community college transfer option. Many students successfully transfer to great universities and save money during their first two years. When you research colleges, find those with strong transfer agreements and advising programs. These can guide you into fields like civil engineering, architecture, or construction management.
After getting my associate degree, I applied to a four-year university and was thrilled to receive a generous transfer scholarship along with financial aid. This meant I paid very little out of pocket for my bachelor's degree.
If you're worried about costs, I highly recommend looking into the community college transfer option. Many students successfully transfer to great universities and save money during their first two years. When you research colleges, find those with strong transfer agreements and advising programs. These can guide you into fields like civil engineering, architecture, or construction management.
Thank you for the insight, I will definitely look for colleges with strong transfer agreements.
yen
Updated
Johanna’s Answer
Starting at a community college before transferring to a university offers many benefits. You can complete general electives first and then discover what truly interests you. As you learn, you might find new passions and career paths. This approach allows you to explore different options and then transfer to a university with more experience and maturity. Ultimately, the key is to choose an educational path that helps you become a valuable member of the global community.
Thank you for your advice.
yen
Updated
Beth’s Answer
Yen, congratulations on proactively seeking different college options (2yr/4yr). Have you had the opportunity to contact companies related to your fields of choice in San Diego to see if they have internship opportunities for undergraduates so you can plan ahead while also asking companies what colleges interns have attended to see if there is a pattern of schools attended in your professional areas that you can explore if transferring to a 4 yr school. You may also want to see if the Community College has a mentorship program where professionals in the area partner with college students so they can have a better "day-in-the-life" to truly know if these are the best professional pathways. Wishing you much success on your journey.
I have not looked for internship opportunities, but I have heard from my counselor that a lot of community colleges offer them as well as trade school alongside general ed classes. Do you have any advice on researching for such opportunities?
yen
Updated
Tammy’s Answer
Yen, Going to a Community or Junior college is a great option. I actually did that when I was graduating high school, many times it is easier to get into a Community/Junior college and also easier to get scholarships.
I attended a Junior college my first 2 years with a full paid scholarship, plus financial aid and a pell grant and I lived at home and worked full time. I saved the money from those 2 years and applied it to my last 2 years. I was also able to get a scholarship to the 4 year college after having a successful 2 years at my junior college. Sometimes it is easier to get accepted into a larger 4 year institution when you transfer from another school.
Also, many times the classes are smaller and easier for the core general education classes at a Community/Junior college vs a larger institution where you are just a number in the crowd.
Bottom line, when you eventually get your degree, no one really looks at where you spent your first 2 years, they are looking at where you got your final degree.
Jean's response had some great research too.
Good Luck!
I attended a Junior college my first 2 years with a full paid scholarship, plus financial aid and a pell grant and I lived at home and worked full time. I saved the money from those 2 years and applied it to my last 2 years. I was also able to get a scholarship to the 4 year college after having a successful 2 years at my junior college. Sometimes it is easier to get accepted into a larger 4 year institution when you transfer from another school.
Also, many times the classes are smaller and easier for the core general education classes at a Community/Junior college vs a larger institution where you are just a number in the crowd.
Bottom line, when you eventually get your degree, no one really looks at where you spent your first 2 years, they are looking at where you got your final degree.
Jean's response had some great research too.
Good Luck!
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
yen
Updated
Michael’s Answer
What a great question! I worked in Student Affairs for a decade; my whole life was supporting students and showing how great college is. But that also came with a lot of hands on experiences with how bad college can be for students as well. So I offer a two prong answer:
1. For me, college was AMAZING. I loved everything non academic about it (was super involved with the university both working and volunteering, did all the stuff). This worked out for me and eventually became a career (that I didn't even realized existed at the time), Student Affairs. If you are someone who is very social but driven, and feel like the "extra" stuff and experiences are worth the costs, then go for 4 year.
2. Community is the answer. My little situation was not the norm, and both my younger siblings had a crazy amount of problems with college that would not have happened or been an issue if they had done Community first. If you are someone who doesn't love school for school, and already has an idea of what you want to study or do career wise, I highly recommend Community first. The entry level courses will drive you crazy at university and you will be spending a lot of money on courses you feel you "don't need". Plus you can save a lot of money on housing, food, etc. depending on your situation while still learning how college courses will be.
Do whatever you feel is best, but do not discount Community College over peer pressure or stigmas or anything like that. I lived and breathed 4 year universities for well over a decade and will still be pushing Community College on my kids if higher education is something they are interested in.
1. For me, college was AMAZING. I loved everything non academic about it (was super involved with the university both working and volunteering, did all the stuff). This worked out for me and eventually became a career (that I didn't even realized existed at the time), Student Affairs. If you are someone who is very social but driven, and feel like the "extra" stuff and experiences are worth the costs, then go for 4 year.
2. Community is the answer. My little situation was not the norm, and both my younger siblings had a crazy amount of problems with college that would not have happened or been an issue if they had done Community first. If you are someone who doesn't love school for school, and already has an idea of what you want to study or do career wise, I highly recommend Community first. The entry level courses will drive you crazy at university and you will be spending a lot of money on courses you feel you "don't need". Plus you can save a lot of money on housing, food, etc. depending on your situation while still learning how college courses will be.
Do whatever you feel is best, but do not discount Community College over peer pressure or stigmas or anything like that. I lived and breathed 4 year universities for well over a decade and will still be pushing Community College on my kids if higher education is something they are interested in.
Thank you so much for your insight and advice, Michael!
yen
Updated
Makayla’s Answer
It's great that you're already deciding if the community college path or going straight to a 4 year university is the best fit for you! I was able to take a lot of dual credit courses while I was in high school online through local community colleges. I'd recommend looking into this, especially for the general education courses/electives you'll need to take since high schools will pay for the tuition of college courses as long as you earn a certain grade, which could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
If you're looking at a specific major at a certain university, you could potentially take some courses that you may find difficult/are perceived as difficult at a community college that could potentially be harder at a university, such as science or math courses by going for the community college route. You can also complete the general education courses so you can jump into your more specialized major courses once you transfer to a 4-year university. I chose to go straight to a 4-year university after high school, but I still took an organic chemistry course one Summer to transfer into my Bachelor's degree. Always check the transfer equivalencies of the courses you plan to take!
Weigh the pros and cons of each path to decide what the best fit for you will be. You still have plenty of time to think this over since it's still early in your Senior year. You got this!
If you're looking at a specific major at a certain university, you could potentially take some courses that you may find difficult/are perceived as difficult at a community college that could potentially be harder at a university, such as science or math courses by going for the community college route. You can also complete the general education courses so you can jump into your more specialized major courses once you transfer to a 4-year university. I chose to go straight to a 4-year university after high school, but I still took an organic chemistry course one Summer to transfer into my Bachelor's degree. Always check the transfer equivalencies of the courses you plan to take!
Weigh the pros and cons of each path to decide what the best fit for you will be. You still have plenty of time to think this over since it's still early in your Senior year. You got this!
Thank you so much for your advice!
yen
Updated
Allison’s Answer
Hi Yen,
I always, always recommend going to community college first.
The benefits I took into consideration before I personally went to community college were:
1. Many basic courses in universities can have anywhere between 200-500 students in each class, where as in community college you'll have 20-50 max. This provides a more one-on-one and provides more chances to ask questions.
2. While I was at community college, many would give classes that begin your major. For example, I majored in accounting and at my community college we had the beginning courses that typically weed out others. This helped me truly get the basics down in a smaller setting before getting into more advanced classes at university. I highly recommend doing these if you have a chance.
3. When you get into university, I highly recommend getting some of your basics done online through your community college during the Summer time (or in person if you'd prefer) . It's a VERY simple way to get courses complete faster and still at a fraction of the price.
4. Cost. In a community college you'll pay a fraction of the price while receiving the same credits at a likely higher grade than you would a university, and we're talking saving thousands in student loans.
My biggest tip will be: Even while you're in university, many will allow you to take classes at another institution while still pursuing your degree up until you've received so many hours. While I was in university in my second and third years I would continue to take online courses at community colleges to save money. Consider taking some of the basics you may've not completed while you were there. For example, I took online environmental science, which is something I never would've understood in a large group setting.
Good luck on your journey!
I always, always recommend going to community college first.
The benefits I took into consideration before I personally went to community college were:
1. Many basic courses in universities can have anywhere between 200-500 students in each class, where as in community college you'll have 20-50 max. This provides a more one-on-one and provides more chances to ask questions.
2. While I was at community college, many would give classes that begin your major. For example, I majored in accounting and at my community college we had the beginning courses that typically weed out others. This helped me truly get the basics down in a smaller setting before getting into more advanced classes at university. I highly recommend doing these if you have a chance.
3. When you get into university, I highly recommend getting some of your basics done online through your community college during the Summer time (or in person if you'd prefer) . It's a VERY simple way to get courses complete faster and still at a fraction of the price.
4. Cost. In a community college you'll pay a fraction of the price while receiving the same credits at a likely higher grade than you would a university, and we're talking saving thousands in student loans.
My biggest tip will be: Even while you're in university, many will allow you to take classes at another institution while still pursuing your degree up until you've received so many hours. While I was in university in my second and third years I would continue to take online courses at community colleges to save money. Consider taking some of the basics you may've not completed while you were there. For example, I took online environmental science, which is something I never would've understood in a large group setting.
Good luck on your journey!
This was super helpful, thank you for the advice.
yen
Updated
Amber’s Answer
This is a great question. I would suggest just making sure to do research either way. Personally, I went to a 4 year right away, and left home about 5 hours away. I don't regret my decision at all, however 15 years ago was very different than now. I think I would have done things different and attended a community college first because I ended up changing my program and spent an extra year at my 4 year to make up for the time after switching my degree.
There are so many benefits to comm. college vs 4 year. The cost is typically the biggest benefit. I would just suggest making sure you are taking high level general/pre-requisite based courses like English Comp 101 etc. that can be transferrable (most likely).
There are so many benefits to comm. college vs 4 year. The cost is typically the biggest benefit. I would just suggest making sure you are taking high level general/pre-requisite based courses like English Comp 101 etc. that can be transferrable (most likely).
Thank you for your advice!
yen
Updated
Jeremy’s Answer
While I don't know of the specific community colleges in the San Diego area, I do feel that starting with a community college experience can be very beneficial for young students. It allows the student to get some basic general education coursework, typically at a lower cost and with smaller class sizes, to prepare for their larger university experience. Also, this provides students the opportunity to explore other degree/career pathways before making a final decision. To find some potential schools, check out the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) : http://www.accsc.org/ and Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) Western Association of Schools and Colleges: http://www.accjc.org/
Thank you for the advice, Jeremy.
yen
Updated
Juliette’s Answer
Yes, going to a community college before transferring to a 4 year university is a great option. It allows you to save money on those general education courses that most likely will transfer to a university, and most importantly allow you to explore courses that you really enjoy for potential career options. As a new high school graduate, you don't always know exactly what you want to do in the future, so taking a variety of courses, connecting with your teachers, and meeting new people will allow to do a lot of self discovery. Follow your passion, but make sure it is something that will be a career that is in demand. Then, as you finalize what you want to do in the future, you can explore 4 year colleges that specialize in that area.
Thanks for your advice!
yen
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
Which ever you choose, consider getting as many credits completed via CLEP or dual credit while you are in high school. CLEP is a great way to get alots of credits for little cost.
Good to know, thank you!
yen
Updated
Heather’s Answer
Starting at a community college and then transferring to a university has its benefits. Attending a community college for your gen eds saves you money and it also allows for smaller classes. I found this helpful when I had questions for the teacher and didn't feel like I was fighting for their attention. It also gives you time to figure out what degree/career path you want to take. Take the time to do your research and don't settle. Good luck!
Thank you so much for the advice.
yen
Updated
Fisayo’s Answer
Starting at a community college is a great option, especially if you aren't 100% sure about what your career goals are. It is also helpful financially. You should be able to find out which schools in your area will accept general education courses from the community college. There is a likelihood most will transfer over but always check to be sure.
Thank you for the advice.
yen