In community colleges today, there’s a slight gap between aspiration and outcome. Case in point: 80% of community college students are interested in getting a bachelor’s degree, but only 14% manage to attain one within six years of enrollment. These colleges serve as a pit stop; a road to university, but barriers such as credit transfer, cost of attendance, and lack of support may hinder students from reaching their desired destination.

Luckily, at Golden West College, these aren’t issues. Located in Huntington Beach, California, the community college is your ticket to top universities across the state and beyond. In this 122-acre campus, you can pursue fields like health sciences, business, visual and performing arts, and more, and fulfil the requirements you need to map your route to university.

“GWC helps ensure that ‘Your Future is Golden.’ No matter which academic pathway you choose, counselors will guide you throughout your college career, tutors will help you succeed, and various departments in Student Services will provide financial aid, food, transportation, computers and other basic needs. We all work together on this beautiful campus to make sure you complete your goals here and move on to careers or further education.”

The Transfer Academy is what every first-time college student needs. Designed and ready to assist all — but particularly underrepresented — students, services and resources here walk you through the whole journey of choosing a university, preparing your application, and actually hitting “submit.” And this entire process is tailored to what you require. 

Don’t even know where to start? Just drop in or drop a line online. Someone will walk you through whatever’s stressing you out. 

Experience direct transfer pathways to the top

Through GWC, you’ll have many options to choose from. You can aim for one of the 22 California State University (CSU) universities through the Associate Degrees for Transfer Program. Or seek a degree at a University of California (UC) university through the Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) program. Past students have progressed to Arizona State University, Washington State, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and plenty more. 

Hear from the students