Austin Community College District (ACC) is ranked top in Texas for university transfer. The college was named No. 1 for transfer student success according to recent data released by The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB).

The report identifies the percentage of fall 2015 transfer students who went on to complete their bachelor’s degree in four years. At ACC, 72 percent of transfer students earned their bachelor’s in four years compared to 68 percent at nearby Alamo Colleges, 62 percent at Dallas, and 57 percent in Houston. The statewide average is 64 percent. 

“We are excited to learn that ACC is number one in the state for student transfer success. Our students work hard to achieve their educational goals, and this is a testament to their dedication and the work of our committed faculty and staff who help them get there,” says Dr. Richard Rhodes, ACC President/CEO. “More than half of ACC students come here to start their college journey. They want to learn new skills, get their basics, earn their associate degree, and then continue on toward their bachelor’s, but that can be an intimidating process. Students want to leave prepared and confident. Our promise is to support them through that journey so they maintain their momentum and achieve their educational goals.” 

Why Students Choose ACC
Students who want to earn college credits before starting at a four-year university get a solid foundation at ACC. The college offers a university transfer/core curriculum and associate degree programs designed specifically for students who want to transfer and apply ACC credits toward a bachelor's. Other top reasons students choose to start at ACC include:

• Saving big: ACC tuition is about 80% less than area universities and 1 in 4 students receive a scholarship.
• Staying close to home: Students can stay at home; saving on rent and utilities.
• Flexible options: ACC offers flexible tracks and programs including online learning for students who want to explore their options.
• Small class sizes: Students work more closely with their professors with a 22:1 average student/teacher ratio at ACC.
• Free support services: All ACC students get free tutoring academic coaching, advising and more both in person and virtually. 

“As a first-generation college student, I was struggling with where to go after high school. ACC was such a big part of our community;  I thought it would be best to transition into university by enrolling at ACC first to learn what college was all about,” says Chelsea Snow, ACC transfer student. “During my time (at ACC), I learned how to study, take notes, and learn. It also gave me time to learn what I wanted from a four-year university.” 

Seamless Transfer Pathways
ACC works closely with 4-year universities to provide a seamless transfer experience. The college also partners with top Texas universities for co-enrollment opportunities that offer students the chance to take classes both at ACC and their university simultaneously including:

• TechTeach: Advance from an associate to a bachelor’s degree in a single year while earning your teaching certificate from Texas Tech University.
• Texas A&M-Chevron Engineering Academy: Begin college at ACC Highland, taking engineering classes taught by A&M faculty. Finish up your studies at the Texas A&M campus in College Station.
• Concordia Connect 3 + 1: This four-year program allows you to earn a bachelor’s degree from Concordia conveniently and affordably. You’ll get ACC’s low tuition rates your first three years of college.
• UT Austin & Texas State: Both of these popular area universities offer their own co-enrollment programs, PACE and Pathways respectively, letting you take many classes at ACC. Check their respective websites for details.

The college’s Transfer Services team provides year-round support to help students make the move from ACC to another institution. The college offers virtual workshops and information sessions, one-on-one assistance with transfer applications, and more.

For more information about transfer opportunities and support at ACC, visit austincc.edu/transfer.