Barstow Community College Transfer in Humanities

I'm currently studying humanities at Barstow Community College and thinking about transferring to a four-year college. What are some things I should know about transferring as a humanities major, especially related to credit transfers?

Transferring from a community college like Barstow to a four-year college or university as a humanities major is a common path, though it involves a few key considerations, especially when it comes to transferring your academic credits.

1. Course Equivalency: One of the first steps in the transfer process is to establish course equivalency between your current community college courses and those at the four-year institution you're considering. This process varies between colleges, but it's crucial to ensure that you can transfer as much of your credit as possible. Your transfer advisor at Barstow Community College could assist you with this process.

2. Articulation Agreements: These are formal agreements between two colleges or universities that make the transition process clearer and simpler. They outline what classes at your current institution will satisfy specific requirement at four-year colleges. Check if your desired college has an articulation agreement with Barstow Community College.

3. Humanities Major Requirements: It's also essential to get familiar with the requirements for your intended major at your potential four-year colleges. Each institution will have a unique set of classes and criteria that you'll need to satisfy to pursue a humanities degree. Examine these carefully to see how your current coursework aligns.

4. Progress Check: Many four-year schools have GPA minimums for transfer students, and some have prerequisite courses that must be completed before applying. Make sure your current academic performance aligns with their expectations.

5. College Application: Unlike first-year applications, transfer applications often require you to demonstrate your academic progress in college and provide a robust reason for transferring.

6. Financial Considerations: Look into available scholarships and financial aid options for transfer students at your prospective schools. The cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses at a four-year institution can be significantly more than at community college, so planning for these costs is essential.

To have a smooth transfer process, your best bet is to open up a line of communication with both your current college and your prospective institution while planning your move. They can provide specific guidance on the process and help ensure you're able to maintain as much of your credit as possible.