Transfer Degrees and Options Overview

Starting a bachelor's degree at a community college is a smart choice. UCC offers many freshman and sophomore courses that students would find at universities, allowing them to stay close to home and save money. UCC provides several pathways for students to transfer to a four-year college or university, including:

These transfer options are recognized by all public colleges and universities in Oregon, as well as some private and out-of-state schools.

To make the transfer process smooth, students should work closely with academic and faculty advisors to create a plan that aligns with their goals. Advisors can help identify the right courses to take, whether a student has a specific university in mind or is still exploring options. Students should start by reviewing existing transfer degrees to see if one fits their needs. If they are unsure, an advisor can help them design a customized program based on general education requirements.

Important: Completing one of these transfer programs does not guarantee admission to a university. Students must still meet all admission requirements, such as standardized tests (SAT/ACT) and any second-language requirements.

Core Transfer Maps (CTM)

Core Transfer Module outlines general education requirements that apply to all Oregon community colleges and public universities. Students who are undecided about their major can take courses within these categories and, upon completion, transfer at least 30 general education credits to any public university in Oregon.

However, some majors have specific course requirements within the Core Transfer Ma categories. Students who have chosen a major but not a transfer destination should check if a Major Transfer Map exists for their field of study. Those who know both their major and transfer school should consult an advisor for a degree plan tailored to their target institution.

Oregon Transfer Module (OTM)

The Oregon Transfer Module (OTM) is a 45-credit package of general education courses that are commonly required at Oregon’s colleges and universities. These courses cover foundational skills and introductory subjects.

Students who complete the OTM can transfer to any Oregon public university or community college, where they will have met the receiving institution’s general education requirements. However, additional coursework may be needed for certain majors or degree requirements.

Associate of Arts – Oregon Transfer (AAOT)

The AAOT degree is designed for students who plan to transfer to a university in the Oregon University System. It satisfies lower-division general education requirements and grants students junior standing for registration purposes.

However, completing an AA/OT does not guarantee admission to a major or department. Some programs have specific course or GPA requirements. Students should consult their UCC advisor and their intended university to select courses that align with their degree goals.

Associate of Science (AS)

The AS degree is for students planning to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program with a stronger focus on major-specific coursework. It offers more flexibility in course selection, allowing students to tailor their studies to their chosen field.

Unlike the AAOT, the AS degree is not a block transfer degree, meaning it does not automatically meet all general education requirements at a university unless there is a specific transfer agreement in place. Students should work with their UCC advisor and review transfer guidelines from their target school.

Associate of General Studies (AGS)

The AGS degree provides a flexible pathway for students who want to customize their education based on the general education requirements of their intended transfer school.

Note: The AGS degree does not guarantee that all courses will transfer. Students should work closely with an advisor to ensure they choose courses that align with their future university’s requirements.

Major Transfer Maps (MTMs)

Major Transfer Maps (MTMs) provide a clear, structured path for students who know their intended major and plan to transfer from an Oregon community college to an Oregon public university.

Unlike general transfer degrees (AAOT, ASOT), MTMs outline specific courses required for a major, ensuring a seamless transfer without unnecessary coursework. MTMs build on the 30-credit Core Transfer Map (CTM) but may include additional major-specific general education courses.