I'm considering starting my college journey at San Diego Mesa College. Can anyone explain how the Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) program works there and how it can help me get into a four-year university?
If you're planning on starting your college journey at San Diego Mesa College, the Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) can be a great pathway to follow. Let's break it down.
The ADT is a special degree offered through the California Community Colleges that allows students to fulfill the requirements of the first two years of coursework needed for a bachelor's degree, then directly transfer as a junior to a California State University (CSU) or participating UC campuses, among others. Of course, acceptance depends on your academic performance and meeting all of the requirements.
When you're enrolled at Mesa, you'll choose an AA-T or AS-T (the Associate in Arts or Associate in Science for Transfer) that aligns with your intended major and CSU. An example of an AA-T might be in Sociology or Psychology, whereas an AS-T might be in Biology or Mathematics.
As part of your ADT, you'll complete 60 semester or 90 quarter units in your major with a grade of 'C' or better and also fulfill the requirements of the CSU’s GE breadth, or the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC), which are a set of courses in various academic categories.
One major advantage of the ADT is the 'degree with a guarantee' aspect. By completing an ADT, you're guaranteed admission to a CSU, albeit not necessarily to a specific campus or major. If you meet the qualifications, you'll receive priority admission. Some UCs, private, and out-of-state colleges also recognize the ADT; however, transfer policies will vary from school to school.
Remember, though, that obtaining an ADT doesn't mean you're automatically done with all your university requirements. Once you transfer, you'll still have two more years (typically around 60 semester units) to complete for your bachelor’s degree.
In addition, don't forget to meet with your academic counselor regularly during your time at Mesa to ensure you're on track with your ADT and for help with your four-year transfer plan. Ideally, try to start this planning during your first semester to make the most of your college journey!
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