I'm planning to transfer to a CSU and I'm currently at Los Angeles Harbor College. Can anyone explain how the transfer breadth courses work? Are there specific classes I should focus on to make the transfer smoother?
The CSU General Education Breadth Requirements, which are involved in transferring from Los Angeles Harbor College (LAHC) to a California State University (CSU), are designed to ensure you have a well-rounded academic foundation before you specialize at a four-year school. These courses cover several areas, each with the required number of units you need to complete.
The areas are:
1. English Language Communication and Critical Thinking: These courses may involve English Composition, Communication Studies, and Logical Reasoning.
2. Scientific Inquiry and Quantitative Reasoning: You'll need to take courses in Physical and Biological Sciences, including a course that has a lab component, as well as a Mathematics course.
3. Arts and Humanities: This area allows you to explore different cultures, thoughts, and artistic expressions through coursework in the Arts, Philosophy, Literature, or Foreign Languages.
4. Social Sciences: These courses aim for you to understand, interpret, and analyze human behavior using methods of inquiry from sociology, history, ethnic studies, and more.
5. Lifelong Learning and Self-Development: This includes courses focusing on human behavior, mental processes, health education, or physical education.
You should consult with an LAHC academic counselor to create an optimal course plan because while many courses at LAHC are transferable, not all of them will satisfy the Breadth Requirements - LAHC will likely have their own particular policies on which courses they will accept. Generally speaking, though, for a smoother transfer, try to focus on completing all the required general education classes at LAHC, and maintain a strong academic performance in all your classes.
Also, it might be beneficial to complete lower-division prerequisite courses for your major of choice at the CSU, so that you can hit the ground running once you arrive on campus. Early planning and regular meetings with your academic counselor can ensure you're on the right path. Good luck!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.