Transfer Ready

Why start with an associate degree at a community college?

An associate degree generally takes two years to complete if you attend college full time and requires about 20 to 30 courses (60 credit hours). This degree is designed to fulfill the first half of a bachelor's degree and prepares you for transfer to a four-year school. ECC offers many transfer plans and education pathways so you can transfer smoothly. The type of associate degree you earn (associate in arts or associate in science) will depend on your study program. Your academic advisor will help you create a transfer plan specific to your goals. An associate degree may also qualify you for employment in your chosen career field.

Can an associate degree be applied to a bachelor's degree?

ECC offers several associate degrees designed to transfer smoothly into bachelor's degree programs. We have partnerships with universities throughout Illinois and across the country. There are even opportunities to complete your bachelor's degree through universities on the ECC campus! See our University Transfer & Partnerships or our Transfer Guides for details.

University Transfer Program at ECC

Start your four-year degree at ECC by completing foundation courses equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor's degree. You'll be ready to transfer with junior standing to the college or university of your choice. Work directly with your academic advisor to develop a transfer plan tailored to your interests and where you plan to go after ECC. If you plan to earn a bachelor's degree, identify your desired area of study and work with your academic adviser, who will help you develop an academic plan to pursue one of the following transfer degrees:

• Associate in Arts (AA)
• Associate in Engineering Science (AES)
• Associate in Fine Arts – Art (AFA)
• Associate in Fine Arts – Music (AFA)
• Associate in Liberal Studies (ALS)
• Associate in Science (AS)