How does an associate degree for transfer work in California community colleges?

I'm planning to attend a California community college and heard about associate degrees for transfer. Can someone explain how these work and if they're a good pathway to transfer to a CSU? What are the benefits?

An Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) is designed to provide a simple and clear pathway to transfer to California State University (CSU) institutions. The unique part of the ADT is the guarantee it provides: if you meet the requirements and are accepted to a CSU, you are guaranteed to have junior standing and to have at least 60 units count towards your bachelor's degree.

Academically, students must complete a minimum of 60 units of CSU-transferable coursework with a GPA of at least 2.0. out of these 60 units, at least 18 must be in a specific major or area of emphasis. The remaining courses are to fulfill general education requirements, in areas such as English, math, and social and physical sciences. Be sure to check the specific degree requirements for your community college and intended major.

One of the major benefits of an ADT is known as the "Degree with a Guarantee" program. This means that, upon earning an Associate Degree for Transfer, you are guaranteed admission into a CSU. Although admission to a specific campus or program is not assured, having an ADT can significantly improve your admission possibilities.

That being said, if you know you want to attend a CSU and have a clear idea of what you want to study, ADTs can be a great option. However, if you are considering private or out-of-state colleges or UC institutions, those schools may not recognize or offer the same guarantees as an ADT, so it's crucial to research each institution's transfer policies.

It's also beneficial to meet with your community college's advising center to determine the best pathway for you given your specific career and educational goals. Remember that each academic journey is unique, and what works best for one student may not necessarily be the best option for another. Good luck!