From CCD to your Bachelor’s Degree: A Transfer Guide
On the road from Community College of Denver to a Bachelor’s degree, TRIO Scholars provides the map, but you - the student - must take the wheel. We will tell you where to look for
transfer information, but you must do the research. We will advise the courses to take, but you must earn the good grades. Your destiny is not a matter of chance.
This transfer guide is a detailed map that provides direction for your transfer journey, divided into three different sections: transfer guideposts, frequently asked transfer questions, and transfer colleges and universities in Colorado.
Transfer Guideposts
1. Start the transfer process early.
Transfer activities to do in your first semester at CCD include:
Meet with the Career Development Center to decide the major that is best for you. Meet with your educational case manager to map out your individual education plan. Work hard in your classes to earn good grades.
Get involved in extracurricular activities.
2. Connect with transfer institutions.
Transfer activities to do in your second semester at CCD include: Research transfer institutions by visiting their websites. Go visit your top three transfer institutions to learn more. Contact transfer institutions with any questions.
Identify your first choice out of the different transfer institutions.
3. Complete all transfer requirements on time.
Transfer activities to do in your remaining semesters at CCD include: Determine deadlines for admissions and financial aid.
Follow your individual education plan and take all - and only - required coursework. Maintain your GPA to meet admissions requirements.
Complete the admissions application early.
4. Hit the ground running at your transfer institution.
Transfer activities to do after you transfer:
Attend the orientation session for transfer students at the transfer institution. Meet with your academic advisor at the transfer institution.
Connect with a student support program at the transfer institution. Get involved with extracurricular activities at the transfer institution.
Frequently Asked Transfer Questions
Why do I need to meet with the Career Development Center in my first semester?
Career exploration activities help you identify one or two career trajectories well suited to your interests, strengths, life goals, and circumstances. By identifying a career and thus a major early on, you are able to create an individual education plan that keeps you on track from the
beginning. Already know what you want to do? Bear in mind that many students change their major down the road, so meet with the Career Development Center to confirm your career choice.
Why do I need an individual education plan?
Depending on your career direction and major, you will need to take specific courses while at the community college. An individual education plan identifies these specific courses, which may vary by transfer institution. If you stray from the plan, you may take extra and unnecessary courses. Such an error may cost you time, money, and headaches down the road when it is time to transfer.
What does working hard in my CCD classes have to do with transferring?
For many colleges and universities, you will need a certain GPA in order to be accepted as a transfer student. Also, a high GPA will open up scholarship opportunities for you to reduce the cost of your education, as the cost of tuition will be higher at your transfer institution.
What do extracurricular activities have to do with transferring?
meet other students, network with people that might help you down the road, and develop skills important to both your education and your career.
Why do I have to start researching my transfer options so soon?
It can take a lot of time to gather all the information that you need to make the correct transfer decision – researching transfer institutions online, e-mailing transfer advisors, visiting different colleges and universities – so get started early!
How do I decide what transfer institution to attend?
When comparing different transfer options, some questions to ask include: Do I want to stay in Denver or try something new? Does the transfer institution offer the degree I am interested in earning? What is the average class size? What type of financial aid and scholarship
opportunities are available? What is the cost of tuition? Will I have the opportunity to do internships, undergraduate research, community projects, or study abroad? How successful are current undergraduates and alumni? Would I rather attend an open access institution or one with competitive admission? Do I feel comfortable on campus? Am I excited about going here?
I feel comfortable at Auraria: Can I just transfer to MSCD or UCD?
Yes, of course you may transfer to either of our neighbor institutions on the Auraria campus - MSCD or UCD. In fact, most CCD students transfer to one of these two institutions and do quite well. We simply suggest that you explore all of your different transfer options before you make a decision. If it turns out that MSCD or UCD is the best fit for you, then great!
Who should I contact at the different transfer institutions?
Do Admissions offices only use GPA to determine admission?
Different transfer institutions have different admissions requirements and standards. Open access institutions – such as Metropolitan State College of Denver – accept all students with minimal admissions requirements. Competitive admission institutions – such as University of Colorado Denver – look at your GPA, difficulty of courses, grades in recent courses,
extracurricular activities, letter of recommendations, and personal essays to determine admission. Highly selective competitive admission institutions – such as the University of Denver – look at these same criteria and may have an additional requirement of an entrance exam or interview.
What if I am not accepted at my first choice transfer institution?
If your first choice transfer institution has competitive admission, be sure to have a back-up plan in place in case you do not get accepted for admission. Identify your second choice transfer institution, and apply at this institution at the same time.
What should I write about in my application essays?
Application essays are often called personal statements. Your personal statement should tell your unique story, and include your significant life experiences, career and education goals, and your motivations. Remember, admissions committees read hundreds of these essays during the selection process, so tell your unique, compelling story. Contact your educational case manager for further guidance on essays.
Will I receive the same financial aid at the transfer institution that I receive at CCD?
You must complete the FAFSA to be eligible for Pell grants, work-study, and loans at the
Should I complete my Associate’s degree at CCD or transfer early?
For some Bachelor’s degrees, it is better to transfer early, as CCD does not offer the sophomore level courses required for the particular degree. For most Bachelor’s degrees, however, you may complete an Associate’s degree at CCD and transfer all of your credit toward a Bachelor’s program. Your individual education plan addresses such unique situations. Remember, you always have the option to transfer early if you wish, but some transfer institutions offer
scholarships specifically to students who have completed Associate’s degrees. As a general rule, you will save money in the long run by completing your Associate’s degree before transferring.
Will I be able to work with TRIO Scholars when I am attending a transfer institution?
TRIO Scholars only works with students enrolled at CCD. However, many other schools have TRIO programs, too, or other similar student support programs. Connect with these programs before you even start taking classes at your transfer institution.
I can’t decide if I am scared or excited to transfer. Help?!?
Change of any sort – even good change – is stressful. However, there is nothing to be scared of as you prepare to transfer. All of the hard work that you put in at CCD will pay great dividends as you pursue a Bachelor’s degree. Remember, there are faculty and staff at the transfer institution there to help you if you just ask. The opportunity to earn a Bachelor’s degree is an exciting thing; many people never even have the chance. To throw out a few clichés: give it your all, get involved, and enjoy the journey!
Transfer Colleges and Universities in Colorado
Adams State College – Alamosa, CO - www.adams.edu
Adams State College offers a dynamic and supportive campus community. Surrounded by mountains in Colorado's legendary San Luis Valley, Adams State is an active campus with a southwestern feel. You'll start out living in one of two residence halls, meet friends from across the country and around the world, enjoy dorm programs, and dine in the La Mesa Dining Hall or food court. Activities include more than 40 clubs and countless opportunities for art shows, plays, concerts, movies, and health fitness workshops.
basin in North America. People come from all over the world to camp and backpack at the Great Sand Dunes, climb Mt. Blanca - a famous 14,000 foot peak - and ski nearby resorts. Hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, whitewater rafting, and rock climbing are all within an hour of campus. With more than 300 annual days of sunshine, this is a recreational paradise. The on-campus Outdoor Adventure Program rents everything from kayaks and sleeping bags to snow shoes - cheap.
Colorado Christian University – Lakewood, CO - www.ccu.edu
Colorado Christian University is located in Lakewood, a suburb on the edge of the majestic Rocky Mountains, ten minutes west of Denver. Such a unique location provides CCU students with the best of both worlds. Whether you’re into extreme outdoor adventure like skiing and rock climbing or you’re more interested in attending plays and poetry readings, CCU’s suburban campus offers easy access to both outdoor recreation and cultural activities. And with an average 300 days of sunshine per year and a beautiful blue Colorado sky, you’ll enjoy whatever activity you choose to pursue.
At CCU, faith is part of the educational experience both inside and outside the classroom. We intentionally present opportunities for students to gain greater knowledge about faith and the Bible, to grow in their personal relationship with God, and to use their God-given gifts to reach out to the world. This process takes place in the context of a Christ-centered community that offers freedom and accountability, opportunities to lead and to serve, a chance to ask questions and seek out answers. The goal is to help students develop thoughtful Christian perspectives that build a foundation for the rest of their lives.
Colorado College – Colorado Springs, CO - www.coloradocollege.edu
At Colorado College our goal is to provide the finest liberal arts education in the country. Drawing upon the adventurous spirit of the Rocky Mountain West, we challenge students, one course at a time, to develop those habits of intellect and imagination that will prepare them for learning and leadership throughout their lives.
engagement and social responsibility at local, national and global levels; and seek excellence, constantly assessing our policies and programs.
Colorado School of Mines – Golden, CO – www.mines.edu
Founded on mining and mountains when Colorado was a territory, today CSM is much more. From computers to consulting, high tech to biotech, and economics to engineering, CSM graduates are in demand and making their mark. Of course, our traditional programs in the geosciences and resource engineering are still there. But today, CSM offers programs that touch technology and businesses across a broad range.
The people who founded CSM were hard working, imaginative, and entrepreneurial, and believed that education was the key. That hasn't changed, and the same kind of people-both students and faculty-make CSM what it is today.
Colorado State University – Fort Collins, CO – www.colostate.edu
Colorado State University is one of the premier teaching and research institutions in the United States. Founded in 1870 and established as a land-grant institution, Colorado State is a fully accredited public university recognized for its excellence in academic programs from the baccalaureate to the postgraduate level. Our land-grant mission of teaching, research, and outreach means that we’re dedicated to service - serving you, our students, first.
Colorado State University is located in the center of Fort Collins, a city of about 137,000 people. Fort Collins provides a unique blend of big city advantages and small town friendliness. You’ll find everything you want – several shopping malls, hundreds of restaurants, six movie
Colorado State Pueblo – Pueblo, CO – www.gocsupueblo.com
Are you ready to answer that age-old question: "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Selecting a degree program can be a big decision. Our academic advisors are here to help you focus your choices.
With 27 undergraduate degree programs, CSU-Pueblo offers multiple paths to define your future. From the College of Science and Mathematics, the Hasan School of Business, and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences to the College of Education, Engineering and
Professional Studies – you’ll learn from nationally-recognized instructors to earn your degree.
DeVry University – Westminster, CO - www.wes.devry.edu
The high-tech campuses of DeVry University offer students real world education in a location surrounded by beautiful natural resources and numerous recreational facilities.
The DeVry University Colorado web sites enable our students, faculty and staff members to learn more about the campus' classrooms, labs and library as well as about the valuable student and career services DeVry Colorado has to offer.
Fort Lewis College – Durango, CO – www.fortlewis.edu
Fort Lewis College is Colorado's innovative public liberal arts and sciences college, focused on preparing students for leadership and success in their careers and communities. The College offers 98 academic specialties in the School of Natural & Behavioral Sciences, School of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, School of Business Administration, and Division of Enrollment Services & General Education. Fort Lewis College students pursue academic excellence in a uniquely inspiring, thought-provoking setting. Located in Durango, at the crossroads of the San Juan Mountains and the desert Southwest, the College uses its location and heritage as
Johnson and Wales University – Denver, CO – www.jwu.edu/denver
Johnson and Wales University, founded in 1914, is a nonprofit, private institution. A recognized leader in career education, the university offers accredited degrees in business, hospitality, and culinary arts. A variety of undergraduate degree programs permit students to select the
educational path best suited to their career interests and objectives. The educational
philosophy of JWU is to deliver a multidisciplinary educational experience for students who are serious about success. A JWU education integrates rigorous academics and professional skills, community leadership opportunities, and our unique career education model. This model includes a focus on career competencies, a career management Web site, work experience tied to a field of study, and on-campus recruitment opportunities. The goal of all academic
programs at JWU is for our students to graduate with the knowledge and expertise to succeed in their chosen field of study in a global economy.
The mission of Johnson and Wales University is to empower its diverse student body to succeed in today’s dynamic world by integrating general education, professional skills and
career-focused education. To this end, the University employs its faculty, services, curricula and facilities to equip students with the conceptual and practical tools required to become
contributing members of society and to achieve success in employment fields with high-growth potential. Through experiential learning, students work with employers to learn in a realistic environment, one that aligns with the skills developed within their program of study. The JWU curricula have hands-on classes focused on the skills necessary to stay in alignment with particular industry needs. Our employment-ready students complete one term of experiential learning prior to the completion of their baccalaureate degree.
Mesa State College – Grand Junction, CO - www.mesastate.edu
Mesa State is one of the fastest growing four-year colleges in Colorado and yet maintains a small class atmosphere while holding the cost of tuition down. Students value the personal education experience that cannot be found at larger colleges and universities. Founded in 1925, Mesa State is a comprehensive, liberal arts college offering programs at the master,
baccalaureate, associate degree, and certificate levels. Professors are here because they love to teach. They know their students and establish relationships that last long after students enter the workforce or have gone on to earn graduate degrees. Mesa students have very diverse backgrounds and come from over 46 states and several foreign countries.
provides unmatched year-round outdoor recreational opportunities - from mountain biking to whitewater rafting to alpine skiing and much more. With an area population exceeding
116,000, you'll have the amenities of a big city without the hassles of heavy traffic, crime or crowded airports. Quiet residential neighborhoods, lively restaurants, coffee shops and retail stores surround the campus. The campus is within walking distance from one of the city's largest parks.
Metropolitan State College of Denver – Denver, CO – www.mscd.edu
The Metropolitan State College of Denver is the largest public four-year college in the United States. The college offers arts and sciences, professional and business courses and programs to a diverse student population. Excellence in teaching and learning is MSCD's primary objective.
Naropa University – Boulder, CO - www.naropa.edu
Naropa University is a private, nonprofit, nonsectarian liberal arts institution dedicated to advancing contemplative education. This learning approach combines the best of Eastern and Western educational traditions, fusing intellectual rigor with deep self knowing. The university comprises a four-year undergraduate college and graduate programs in the arts, education, environmental leadership, psychology and religious studies. Naropa University was founded in 1974 and was accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools in 1986.
Activism, altruism and community involvement are among the notable characteristics of Naropa’s environment, which attracts both students and faculty who are committed to make a difference. The faculty and student body at Naropa form a close-knit community, and this relationship between the students and faculty is a unique part of the educational experience.
Regis University – Denver, CO – www.regis.edu
Regis University educates students in a variety of formats to encourage lifelong learning, from a traditional, classroom-based undergraduate program at Regis College to the accelerated pace of classroom and online undergraduate and graduate programs for working adults in the School for Professional Studies and the Rueckert-Hartman School of Healthcare Professions.
Regis University is located in northwest Denver, close to the myriad outdoor activities available in the Rocky Mountains. We also have easy access to the heart of Denver, with its cultural events, museums, and sports venues.
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design – Lakewood, CO – www.rmcad.edu
When Philip J. Steele founded Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design in 1963, his dream was to provide students with an education based on traditional art and design principles in an environment that fostered personal meaning and growth. From years of working as an artist and teacher he understood that in order to provide a quality education it was essential that students have the opportunity to study with professional artists and designers who could both teach the courses and guide students as they sought to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. RMCAD remains dedicated to that vision today.
United States Air Force Academy – Colorado Springs, CO - www.usafa.edu
Established in 1954, the Air Force Academy is the newest of the service academies. The mission of the Academy is to inspire and develop outstanding young men and women to become Air Force officers with knowledge, character and discipline; motivated to lead the world's greatest aerospace force in service to the nation.
The Academy is nestled against the eastern slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains, eight miles north of Colorado Springs and 55 miles south of Denver. The campus is comprised of over 18,000 acres situated 7,000 feet above sea level. The cadet population includes 4,000 men and women who represent all fifty states, the territories, and several foreign countries.
University of Colorado Boulder – Boulder, CO – www.colorado.edu
Established in 1876, CU-Boulder is an exceptional place, offering a rich tradition of excellence, nationally recognized academics, outstanding faculty, a dynamic student body, a multitude of unique learning opportunities, and a spectacular natural and cultural environment. The
university has an outstanding reputation for scholarship and interdisciplinary research. It is one of thirty-four U.S. public institutions belonging to the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), and the only member in the Rocky Mountain region. Students come from every state in the nation and about 100 countries. Many ethnic, religious, and social
backgrounds are represented, fostering a multicultural community that enriches each student’s educational experience.
University of Colorado at Colorado Springs – Colorado Springs – www.uccs.edu
The University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS) is a growing and vibrant campus with some of the best and newest academic facilities in Colorado. Founded in 1965 as the youngest campus in the University of Colorado system, UCCS has become a major undergraduate and research institution and one of the fastest growing campuses in the country. UCCS offers 30 Bachelor's degree, 18 Master's degrees, and 4 PhD programs in a variety of fields. The University is comprised of five Colleges: the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences; the College of Business; the College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences and the School of Public Affairs; the Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences; and the College of Education. With an 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio, UCCS offers a uniquely personal education experience to our students.
University of Colorado Denver – Denver, CO – www.cudenver.edu
Founded in 1912, the University of Colorado at Denver, part of the University of Colorado system, is a four-year, public, nonsectarian, nonresidential, doctoral university. The campus is located in an urban environment and is approximately 127 acres.
CU-Denver has seven colleges and schools, which are sub-divided into departments or divisions. Colleges accept students directly from high school or as transfers. Colleges also offer graduate instruction through the Ph.D. The college of Liberal Arts and Sciences has the largest
University of Denver – Denver, CO – www.du.edu
Since its founding in 1864, the University of Denver has grown into one of the West’s premier private universities, blending the friendliness and personal attention of a small college with the resources and intellectual diversity of a sizeable research institution.
Located just 8 miles from bustling downtown Denver and mere minutes from the Rocky Mountain foothills, the University of Denver’s tree-shaded campus is surrounded by pleasant urban neighborhoods offering coffee shops, ice cream parlors and ethnic restaurants. The institution is located along a light rail line and major bus lines, providing access to the city’s arts districts, shopping centers, sports arenas and extensive network of parks.
University of Northern Colorado – Greeley, CO – www.unco.edu
At UNC, we put students first. Small class sizes, concerned faculty and a reputation for
academic excellence combine to bring you the best opportunity for career enhancement. With strong programs in everything from education to public health, music to the arts, science to philosophy, UNC prepares you with the skills you need to succeed in your chosen field.
Outside the classroom, you'll find UNC both comfortable and stimulating. You'll get your pick of plenty of versatile housing possibilities. And once you settle into UNC's hometown of Greeley, a welcoming community of 75,000, you'll feel like you've lived here forever.
Western State College of Colorado – Gunnison, CO – www.western.edu
Western State College of Colorado is a public liberal arts college offering bachelor of arts degrees in 22 majors. Founded in 1901 as a teacher's college (Colorado Normal School), and designated as a public liberal arts college in 1923, Western is by far the longest standing four year college in western Colorado.
At Western State College of Colorado, you will have an unmatchable opportunity to extend your academic experience beyond the classroom. Our environment in the Colorado Rocky Mountains is beautiful, inspiring and motivating. Live in paradise, get a great degree, change your life!
