What are the best CUNY community colleges for engineering?

I’m thinking of starting at a community college before transferring for engineering. Which CUNY community colleges offer strong engineering programs? Any tips on making the most of my experience there before transferring?

The City University of New York (CUNY) is a great place to start your engineering education due to its affordable tuition rates and multiple campus options. In terms of community colleges within CUNY that have robust engineering programs, there are a few options to consider.

Firstly, LaGuardia Community College stands out. It offers two-year programs in Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering, essentially the foundational engineering disciplines.

Another to consider is Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC). It offers associate degrees in both Science for Engineering Sciences and Science for Health Professions.

Remember that community colleges often place students with varying levels of academic preparation within the same classes. So, your experience can be greatly improved by taking advantage of resources like tutoring centers, office hours, and study groups to ensure you're absolutely solid on the material, especially before transferring to a four-year institution.

When it comes to transferring, start planning early. Connect with an academic advisor to ensure you understand the prerequisites and application requirements for the four-year engineering programs you're interested in. Many of these programs are competitive, and understanding what schools seek in their transfer students can give you an edge when it's time to apply.

Lastly, engage in extracurricular activities even as a community college student. Start or participate in a science or engineering club, join competitions, attend seminars, or seek out relevant internships or research opportunities. This proactive involvement can enrich your knowledge, build your network, and make your application more impressive when you decide to transfer.

Overall, the CUNY community college system offers strong educational opportunities for aspiring engineers wishing to start at a two-year institution before transferring. Best of luck on your academic journey.