TRANSFERRING: DEGREE OR NO DEGREE?

Most of the time it is best for the student to graduate before transferring. Sometimes it is not in their best interest. Below are benefits of graduating and examples of when it may be better for the student to transfer early.

DEGREE: Earning an Associate in Arts (A.A.) or Associate in Science (A.S.) degree before transferring:

• Studies show students are more likely to graduate with their Bachelor’s degree.
• Students will always have their Associate’s degree. This can help with internships, summer jobs, etc.
• Four year colleges may waive or reduce their “core” or local general education requirements.
• Four year college admission departments look more favorably at students who have some lower grades if they have completed their degree.
• Many 4 year colleges guarantee 60 or more credits in transfer, with the possibility of accepting courses with less than a grade of “C” if the student has earned a degree.
• Students can apply to seven SUNY colleges for free, saving $350 (when using the SUNY Application).
• SUNY Guaranteed Admission program provides an opportunity to continue full-time study at a 4 year SUNY college to all NYS residents who transfer directly with an AA or AS degree. (Admission to a specific college or curriculum is not assured).
• Eligibility for transfer scholarships could increase (ex. NYSTAA Scholarship).
• Many colleges guarantee graduates with junior academic standing which could mean the ability to register for classes earlier, better on-campus housing options, and/or more meal plan options.
• Able to attend the Commencement ceremony; Alumni status will make student eligible for alumni benefits and activities/events.

NO DEGREE: When is it advisable for a student to transfer before earning a degree?

• The 4 year college program is unique, and MCC does not offer the courses needed for transfer
  (ex. Industrial Design at RIT, some BFA programs).

• The program will take 3 – 4 years to complete at the transfer school no matter how many college credits are accrued
  (ex. Architecture at UB, Film and Animation at RIT)
• The student is a few courses/credits away from graduating and it is not in their best interest to stay for another semester (due to time, cost, use of financial aid payments, etc.)

If student is not graduating, recommend REVERSE TRANSFER:

• Students can graduate after transferring if they have already earned at least 24 credits at MCC and have a 2.0 or above GPA. See: https://www.monroecc.edu/depts/grad/reverse-transfer/ for the Reverse Transfer requirements.

Questions? Contact Advisement and Transfer Services, Building 1-231 585.292.2400