What is IGETC and How Does it Work
The Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum, commonly referred to as IGETC, is a program designed to facilitate the transfer of students between California community colleges and California State University (CSU) campuses. Established in 1991, IGETC aims to provide a streamlined and efficient pathway for students to complete their lower-division general education requirements, ensuring a smoother transition to CSU institutions.
IGETC is a collaborative effort between the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office and the CSU Office of the Chancellor. The program allows students to complete a set of courses that are guaranteed to transfer to any CSU campus, thereby fulfilling the lower-division general education requirements. This enables students to transfer seamlessly and focus on completing their major-specific coursework.
How IGETC Works
The IGETC program consists of 39-40 units of coursework, which are divided into several areas, including English communication, mathematical concepts, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Students must complete all the required courses in these areas to fulfill the IGETC requirements.
IGETC Course Requirements
The IGETC course requirements are as follows:
Area | Course Requirements |
---|---|
English Communication | 1 course in English composition (3-4 units) |
Mathematical Concepts | 1 course in mathematics (3-4 units) |
Natural Sciences | 2 courses in natural sciences (6-8 units) |
Social Sciences | 2 courses in social sciences (6-8 units) |
Humanities | 3 courses in humanities (9-12 units) |
Language Other than English | 1 course in a language other than English (3-4 units) |
Critical Thinking | 1 course in critical thinking (3 units) |
Benefits of IGETC
The IGETC program offers several benefits to students, including:
- Streamlined transfer process: IGETC ensures that students can transfer their lower-division general education coursework to any CSU campus, making it easier to plan and complete their degree.
- Flexibility: IGETC allows students to take courses at a community college or a CSU campus, providing flexibility in their academic planning.
- Cost savings: By completing lower-division coursework at a community college, students can save money on tuition and fees.
- Academic preparation: IGETC helps students develop essential skills in critical thinking, writing, and problem-solving.
IGETC Certification
To ensure that IGETC courses meet the required standards, community colleges and CSU campuses must certify their courses through the IGETC website. This certification process verifies that the courses align with the IGETC requirements and are eligible for transfer.
Student Eligibility
Students who wish to participate in the IGETC program must:
- Be enrolled at a California community college or a CSU campus
- Meet the course requirements outlined above
- Obtain certification from their institution
Key Points
- The IGETC program facilitates student transfers between California community colleges and CSU campuses.
- IGETC consists of 39-40 units of coursework in areas such as English communication, mathematical concepts, and humanities.
- Students must complete all required courses to fulfill the IGETC requirements.
- IGETC offers benefits such as a streamlined transfer process, flexibility, cost savings, and academic preparation.
- Students must obtain certification from their institution to participate in the IGETC program.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the IGETC program provides a vital pathway for students to transfer between California community colleges and CSU campuses. By completing the required coursework and obtaining certification, students can ensure a smooth transition and focus on completing their major-specific requirements.
What is the primary purpose of the IGETC program?
+The primary purpose of the IGETC program is to facilitate the transfer of students between California community colleges and California State University (CSU) campuses by providing a streamlined and efficient pathway for students to complete their lower-division general education requirements.
How many units of coursework are required for IGETC?
+The IGETC program consists of 39-40 units of coursework, which are divided into several areas, including English communication, mathematical concepts, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
What are the benefits of participating in the IGETC program?
+The benefits of participating in the IGETC program include a streamlined transfer process, flexibility, cost savings, and academic preparation.