The University of North Texas (UNT) is making notable progress in supporting transfer students with assistance from its dedicated Transfer Center. While statewide in Texas, only 45% of community college transfer students earn a bachelor’s degree within six years, UNT reports a significantly higher rate of 68% for its 2017 transfer cohort.
The success at UNT can be attributed to supportive student services and solid partnerships with community colleges, according to Brenda Kihl, Senior Associate Vice President for Enrollment Partnerships. At UNT, community college transfer students on average graduate in 3.15 years, often starting with fewer than two years’ worth of credits and attending part-time.
A report from the Community College Research Center highlights that the statewide graduation rates within six years for Hispanic and Black transfer students are 44% and 33%, respectively. However, UNT boasts higher figures, with 69% and 60% of Hispanic and Black transfer students completing their degrees in this timeframe.
Elizabeth With, Senior Vice President for the Division of Student Affairs, emphasized the importance of creating a foundation for success for all students, with more than 10% of UNT’s undergraduate population being transfer students.
Central to UNT’s support for transfer students is the Transfer Center, which fosters connections to the university community and hosts events like ‘Eagle for a Day,’ allowing prospective students to experience campus life. During this event, transfer orientation and admissions application fees can be waived for attendees.
Assistant Director of Transition Programs, DrewAnn Reyes, highlights that the Transfer Center begins engaging with students before their arrival at UNT to ensure a confident start. New transfer students participate in the Transfer Experience during UNT’s First Flight welcome week, where they connect with peers through activities led by Transfer Ambassadors, who often share similar experiences.
The Transfer Center continues to support students throughout their journey at UNT by organizing Transfer Communities for shared interests and holding events each semester, including Lunch & Learn sessions in collaboration with the UNT Career Center. National Transfer Student Week in October features events celebrating transfer students and supporters, along with a weekly newsletter keeping students informed.
‘Reyes mentioned that the center aims to assist transfer students in connecting with campus resources, building a community, and achieving their academic goals at UNT.’ This comprehensive support structure underscores UNT’s commitment to facilitating successful outcomes for transfer students in the Denton community.