Transfer options abound

By D.J. Ochoa

Pima Community College has partnered with 11 in-state and out-of-state universities to help students have an easier experience while transferring.

The universities include the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, Eastern New Mexico University, Prescott College and Bellevue University in Nebraska.

For information on transfer details, see pima.edu/transfer/partnerships.

Because each school has different application and transfer requirements, PCC spokeswoman Rachelle Howell suggests that students consult with a PCC advisor.

“It is highly recommended for a student interested in transferring to a four-year school to confer with a PCC advisor early and often to make sure he/she begins and stays on the right track,” Howell said.

All three state universities accept PCC’s Arizona General Education Curriculum transfer certificate. The AGEC is designed to meet general bachelor’s degree requirements, so that students can begin taking courses in their major once they transfer to a university.

The universities also accept Pima associate degrees and certificates designed for transfer.

Students who wish to stay in Tucson can enroll in a Joint Admission program created by PCC and UA that allows students to enroll in both schools at the same time. For further information, see pima.edu/ja.

NAU also teaches courses in Tucson, with some offered at PCC campuses. For specific degrees, the university will accept up to 90 Pima credits, which equals the first three years of a four-year degree.

For future Sun Devils, PCC has an agreement with ASU known as the Transfer Admission Guarantee. Completing TAG requirements guarantees admission into selected ASU programs.

ENMU, located in Portales, N.M., signed a partnership with PCC in June 2009. Pima graduates who meet specific requirements are guaranteed admission. EMNU also offers online bachelor’s degrees in fields such as aviation, education, business and health sciences.

Students who plan to transfer to a four-year college should also consider taking Pima’s STU 210—Transfer Strategies, Howell said.

“This class is designed to help students prepare a plan for a successful transition to a university,” she said.