What's the best way to use the PCC transfer degree credit planner?

I'm planning on attending Portland Community College and want to make sure I'm on track for a transfer. How can I effectively use the credit planner to ensure my credits transfer smoothly to my target university?

Using Portland Community College's (PCC) transfer degree credit planner effectively primarily involves three steps: researching, planning, and double-checking.

Research:

Start your planning process by understanding the transfer requirements of your target university. Most four-year institutions provide a transfer guide or course equivalency tables that you can use to understand how your credits from PCC will be accepted and utilized. Some universities even have transfer agreements with PCC, known as articulation agreements, that lay out exactly what courses will transfer. Join information sessions or workshops, if such are offered by your target university or PCC, to take advantage of expert advice and ask any questions you have.

Planning:

When you enter the PCC transfer degree credit planner, you'll need the information you've gathered in the research phase. Try to align your course selections at PCC as closely as possible with the requirements at your target university. This could be specific courses, or it could be more general credit hour requirements in areas such as humanities, maths, sciences, etc. Make sure your choices fit within your desired major at your target university.

Double-Checking:

Once you've created a plan, it's highly recommended to have it reviewed by an academic advisor at PCC, and if possible, a contact at your target university. They might spot pitfalls you've missed or suggest beneficial changes. It's also vital to revisit and update your plan each term, as course offerings may change, or your academic interests might shift.

Remember, planning is never a one-time process. It's a series of consistent checks and updates that help you stay on track and ensure you're making the most out of your time and effort at PCC. The transfer degree credit planner is your tool; actively using it as part of diligent planning can make for an efficient transfer journey.