Community Colleges of Philadelphia – Worth Considering?

Is anyone familiar with the community colleges in Philadelphia, particularly their transfer agreements with four-year universities? I'm trying to decide if starting here will set me up well for a future transfer. Any advice or experience to share?

The Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) is certainly worth considering, especially if you have plans to transfer to a four-year institution later. It's known for having solid academics, and the cost-effectiveness of starting at a community college can't be overstated.

CCP has transfer agreements, otherwise known as articulation agreements, with many four-year colleges and universities. These agreements often guarantee admission to a four-year college if you meet certain criteria such as a minimum GPA, and sometimes ensure that certain credits will be accepted by the transfer institution.

Some of these partnerships are with universities in the greater Philadelphia area like Drexel University, Temple University, University of the Sciences, and Saint Joseph's University, among others. This allows you to stay in the same city when transferring, which can make the transition smoother.

However, keep in mind that while these agreements can streamline the transfer process, they do not guarantee admission to competitive programs or majors at these four-year institutions.

It's always a good idea to work closely with your academic advisor from the very beginning of your time at CCP to plan out your transfer pathway and align your course selection with the requirements of your intended four-year institution. Be proactive in understanding what the transfer agreement entails, what coursework you should be focusing on, and what grades you need to maintain.

Additionally, completing an associate degree before transferring can sometimes be beneficial. Having a degree under your belt may stand you in good stead when transferring and pursuing further education. Some universities may also have scholarships specifically for students transferring with an associate degree.

Overall, starting at CCP could be a great path to get to your end goal, provided you leverage the resources available, make informed choices, and stay motivated and committed to your academics.