How does MassTransfer work with Cape Cod Community College?

I'm considering starting at Cape Cod Community College and then transferring to a four-year school in Massachusetts. Can someone explain how the MassTransfer program works? I'm particularly curious about how credits transfer and which colleges participate.

Sure, happy to help! The MassTransfer program has been designed to provide community college students, like those at Cape Cod Community College, an easier pathway for transferring to a four-year public university in Massachusetts. The program allows for the smooth transfer of credits, ensuring that the credits you earn at Cape Cod Community College will be accepted at the participating four-year colleges.

To make use of MassTransfer, you'll want to get an associate degree from Cape Cod Community College in a field of study that's closely related to what you plan to study at the four-year institution. After graduation, if you decide to transfer to a Massachusetts public university (or some private institutions) related to your field of study, your credits will transfer and your tuition may be reduced — some schools may even offer further financial incentives.

The MassTransfer program includes all public community colleges, state universities, and University of Massachusetts campuses. Meaning, you will have options including University of Massachusetts campuses (like UMass Amherst, UMass Boston, etc.), Massachusetts State Universities (like Bridgewater State, Salem State, etc.), and community colleges (like Cape Cod Community College where you're planning to start).

One thing to note is that meeting the eligibility criteria for MassTransfer does not guarantee admission — the four-year institution's admission requirements still apply. However, it does streamline processing time and aligns the admission processes of the two institutions for a smoother transition.

Also keep in mind that not all credits may transfer for all programs, so it's a good idea to speak with an adviser at Cape Cod Community College to ensure you're taking the most appropriate courses. They can provide insights into which classes are more likely to transfer, and which academic programs align best with the four-year colleges' requirements under the MassTransfer program.

So, in essence, the MassTransfer program can help ease the process of your transition and makes a wonderful choice for students looking to transfer from a two-year community college to a four-year university within Massachusetts. It's a great tool to save both time and money while pursuing your education.