At one time or another, many college students ask themselves, “Should I transfer schools?” In fact, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) found that, in the fall of 2020, the number of undergraduates enrolled as transfer-in students was over 1.2 million. Transferring colleges is very common, particularly for those who are not satisfied in their current school, who are looking to change locations, or who need a program that aligns better with their career goals. These are just some of the many reasons why students transfer schools.
While there are many reasons to transfer colleges, making the move can feel a bit intimidating. The change of schedule, scenery, and social circles can be daunting, but – for many students – it is the best decision in the long run. If you are unhappy with your current school, you may be considering this path for yourself.
Whether you want to make the switch right now, next year, or transferring colleges is just a thought at the moment, it is a choice that should come with great deliberation. Here, we will share the top reasons one might transfer colleges today.
1) To Pursue the Right Program
Does the school you attend now offer you the major you want? Are the classes going to help prepare you for your future career? This is an essential quality to have in any program you choose—it should equip you with the skills you need to succeed in your dream job. If your current school does not facilitate your journey to meet these requirements, you may consider transferring colleges.
At a career-focused school like Goodwin University, the programs are designed to meet students’ needs. Whether you are interested in nursing, business, manufacturing, or criminal justice (to name a few), you will find that the courses are highly applicable and give students a valuable set of skills and knowledge for the work ahead in their professions. Welding majors learn in a hands-on environment, practicing their craft in a state-of-the-art facility. Dental hygiene majors complete clinics and perfect their work in a lab before graduating.
The right program for you should perfectly align with – and support – your professional goals. It should also meet your individualized needs as a student. In addition to goal alignment, ask yourself whether your current program is setting you up for success: Is it offering you flexibility and support where you need it? Or, are you struggling to balance coursework? Goodwin understands the demands of busy, working students. Most programs offer online classes, giving students the freedom to study on a schedule that makes sense for them. Many on-campus courses are offered during the day, night, and weekends, too. If your program does not work for you, and you have to work around your program, that is another reason to transfer colleges.
2) To Save Money
College is an expensive investment. Attending a four-year institution can be an overwhelming financial burden, particularly with increased tuition rates over the past several years. Some students feel they are not getting the level of education that aligns with the cost of tuition. Students who transfer often have financial reasons, choosing to attend an in-state school or a community college where they can get a bit of a break in tuition fees.
Quality education does not have to break the bank. Goodwin University has one of the lowest tuition costs for private, non-profit colleges in the state of Connecticut. In fact, the school’s five-year tuition change was significantly lower than almost any other college and university in the state. An estimated 94% of undergraduate students received financial aid in the form of grants or scholarships in fall 2021, and 56% of Goodwin undergraduates received Pell Grants to help cover the costs. Unlike student loans, Pell Grants do not have to be repaid.
3) To Find a Better Environment
Another important reason to transfer colleges may be the environment of your current school. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you enjoy where you live? Do you feel too far from home? Sometimes the transition from a small high school or town to a big college can make you feel a bit lost. Or perhaps your school is too much of a party school, with frat and sorority houses stealing focus of campus life – or worse – your studies. Does your current school offer on-campus housing? Are you looking for a school that is closer to family or home? These are all important factors to consider when deciding whether to transfer.
4) To Make Social Connections
Similar to the environment, consider the circumstances surrounding your social life. For many students, college is one of the best stages of life for relationship development. Many lifelong friendships are formed during the college years, and so the social environment is something many students will want to consider. If you see your friends on social media having the time of their lives at other colleges, while you feel isolated and lonely, it may be time to consider a different atmosphere. If you are feeling homesick, you may also be thinking of moving closer to home to be able to spend some more time with family and local friends.
5) To Receive a Higher Quality Education
Of course, receiving a top-quality education is one of the primary reasons to transfer colleges. In addition to finding a flexible program that meets your needs and prepares you for your future career, you will want to make sure that your institution is reputable, credible, and meets the standards of today’s hiring professionals. This is essential for your success post-graduation. If you feel your current program or school is lacking in curriculum, or you do not feel challenged and engaged with your current coursework, you may consider transferring into another school.
When transferring colleges, be sure to look for an accredited college or university. Accreditation ensures that the college offers high-quality programs, taught by reputable leaders and professors, and that the school is committed to the success of its students. Accreditation is a key indicator of a high quality education, as schools and programs with this credential must meet and uphold certain standards set by national accrediting bodies.
A well-respected school will also have long-standing connections and relationships with companies looking to hire young professionals straight out of their programs. At Goodwin, for example, our Career Services Team offers free help to make sure students find – and land – their dream job after graduation. From resume building and cover letter writing, to interview practice and professional networking, our team tirelessly works to help ensure you are working in a career that you love. The proof is in the pudding: 86 percent of students get a job or continue their education within 6 months of graduation.
Making the Move
Do you think you are ready to make the switch? If reading these reasons to transfer colleges has helped support your decision, you may want to explore the next steps to make it happen. Moving to a different school can feel intimidating, but if you feel that it is the best decision for you, then you should go with your gut – and the reasons mentioned above. At Goodwin University, we can typically evaluate transcripts in less than one business day.
At Goodwin University, 63% of our students have transferred here from other institutions. The median age of the student body is 27, and the majority have completed some postsecondary education before entering our doors. No matter where you are in life, it is never too late to make a change and pursue your dreams. The goal at Goodwin is to welcome all transfer students with open arms, helping to make the process as easy as possible. Read our FAQ for transfer students to learn more.
If you feel ready to transfer into Goodwin University, you may also contact us today. Call 800-889-3282, or visit us online to request more information.
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.