Transfer students get the same education and spend a lot less

Nationally 45 percent of all U.S. undergraduates are enrolled at community colleges according to the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).  Starting at North Central Texas College (NCTC) is a smart move, and in today’s uncertain economy, it makes even more sense.

Consider this: in-district tuition at NCTC is $2,400 for a full-time student taking 30 credit hours over the 9-month school year. That same credit load would cost $10,480 at University of North Texas, $8,522 at Texas Woman’s University, $9,866 at Texas Tech University, and over $20,000 at a private institution such as Baylor University.

That means if you spend two years at NCTC and transfer to one of these four-year universities for the rest of your education, you can expect to save anywhere from $12,800 to $36,000. Wow!

Is the value of a college education related to its cost?

Transfer students get exactly the same diplomas as students who spent four years and a lot more money at four-year institutions. While NCTC’s academic courses come in a slightly different wrapper, the quality and content are top-notch. Classes are small, the faculty is committed to teaching.  Often the faculty that teach at NCTC also teach at area universities, and NCTC credits transfer seamlessly to the universities.

Transferring is easy

One of the reasons community colleges were created was provide the first two years of a four-year degree at low cost and close to home. So naturally, we do it well. Our Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees are designed to transfer.  Our advisors know where the best four-year programs are, and our instructors will inspire you to do your best.

Students should to take a look at the transfer agreements NCTC has with many of the four-year colleges and universities in Texas. These agreements make it easy for students to complete basics at NCTC and add higher-level courses at a transfer institution. It’s a wise move to contact the four-year school you want to attend for a transfer guide or find it on NCTC’s website.

What if I don’t have a plan or a major?

You’re certainly not alone if you want to explore your interests before you declare a major. According to the website, MyMajors.com, as many as 80 percent of incoming freshmen have not decided on a program of study yet.  And Penn State reports that 50 percent of all undergraduates change their major at least one time.  NCTC has resources to guide you in determining the best educational and career path for you.  See the staff at our on-campus Completion Centers (see page 9 for more information) for individual success coaching and interest assessments to assist you in determining the best fit for your future.

Financial Aid: Making Higher Education Even More Affordable

There’s a misconception that some may have that financial aid is only available for valedictorians, star athletes, or minority groups.

Facts:

Approximately 59 percent of first year, full-time NCTC students receive grant or scholarship aid.

• Last year NCTC helped students access over $21 million in financial aid, scholarships, grants, work study, and loans.

Bottom line: if you’re concerned about how to pay for college, it’s important to search all avenues before deciding it isn’t possible. Scholarships, and other financial aid opportunities, exist to ensure that money is less of an issue to those who wish to pursue higher education.

For more information visit: http://www.nctc.edu/FinancialAidHome.aspx

Have us contact you by filling our the form below or visit our website for more information about the program and NCTC as a whole.