Main Content Footer

Find the Right University

Determining where you want to go to school isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make. To do that, ask yourself:

  • What is my career goal?
  • Which major will most help me succeed at that?

Not sure? Then try to complete “the basics,” called core curriculum classes, while you attend community college. You’ll save time that you can use later to help you decide your focus.

Comparison Shop

There are many factors to consider when choosing a four-year college. Do you want to attend a private or public college? Do you prefer a large or small campus? Do you want to travel or stay close to home? Ask yourself:

  • What are my goals and interests? Do I know what I want to major in?
  • Does the college I’m considering offer a good program in my major? Does it offer me career counseling if I don’t yet know what field to study?
  • What is the reputation of the college I’m considering? How will that affect my career goals?
  • How does the university I want to attend handle transfer students and does it offer them financial aid? Will I have to retake courses when I transfer?
  • Do I want to live on campus? Do I want to join a sorority or fraternity, participate in athletics or learn to be a leader?

To help narrow down your choices, you might want to use a comparison chart.

Transferable or Articulated?

Each course you take at community college falls into one of three categories: transferable, articulated, or neither (often called non-transferable). A transferable course will be accepted and go as a credit towards your degree, at least as an elective — it may or may not count as a general requirement. Articulated credits may be used for both major and general education requirements. To find out for sure what your credits are doing for you, make sure you talk to an advisor. You can ask about Choosing a major

  • What can I do with a major in…?

    • Resources to Help You Compare and Chose a University

    To learn more about some of your Texas four-year university options, visit their Web sites: