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    Nov 08, 2024  
2016-2017 Catalog 
    
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2016-2017 Catalog [ARCHIVED]

About Degrees, Certificates, and Transfer Planning

Note: This section contains information about earning a degree or certificate, or transferring. To view a list of all available IVC degrees, and certificates, visit Program, Degree and Certificate List .

Earning a Certificate

Irvine Valley College awards certificates in the technological, applied, and business sciences to students who complete the courses specified for each program. Curriculum is developed by the faculty in cooperation with advisory committees comprised of business and industry representatives to ensure students develop competencies needed for employment.

Waiver of Certificate Requirements

Students with previous educational or vocational experience who wish to waive a required course in a certificate program will be expected to verify equivalency by completing credit-by-exam or by petitioning for course substitutions. See counselor for assistance.

Application for Evaluation

Certificates are not awarded automatically. Students who expect to earn a certificate from the college must log on to MySite to submit an online application for evaluation with the Office of Admissions and Records. Responsibility for submitting this application rests with the student, and transcripts for all college work attempted must be on file for the application to be considered. 

Students who complete a certificate of achievement (but not those who complete the certificate of proficiency) may participate in commencement. Information about graduation, including application deadlines, is available online on the admissions page of the college’s website.

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Certificates of Achievement

Certificates of achievement are granted for the completion of a specified program, or specified courses. These state-approved certificates acknowledge workplace competencies and job readiness. Certificates of achievement are transcripted on the student’s academic record at the college.

Certificate of Achievement Requirements

The specific course requirements for each certificate of achievement are listed in the degree and certificate section of this catalog. In many, but not all cases, the courses that compose the certificate of achievement program are the same as those that compose the major for the associate degree. 

To earn the certificate of achievement students must

  1. Complete all of the courses in the certificate program with grade of “A,” “B,” “C,” or “P.”
  2. Complete a minimum of 12 units in the certificate program at Irvine Valley College.
  3. Submit an online application for evaluation (in MySite) with the Office of Admissions and Records in order to receive the certificate.

Certificate of Achievement in California State University General Education-Breadth (CSUGE-Breadth):

Students may earn a certificate of achievement by completing 39-48 units of the California State University (CSU) General Education Certification pattern (2016-17 CSU General Education Requirements ).

Certificate of Achievement in Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC):

Students may earn a certificate of achievement by completing 36-46 units of the IGETC pattern (2016-17 IGETC Requirements ).

Certificates of Proficiency

Certificates of proficiency are granted for the completion of a specified program, or specified courses, whose total requirement is less than 18 units. These locally approved certificates are designed to acknowledge basic workplace competencies and job readiness for students who are entering the workforce or upgrading their job skills. Certificates of proficiency are not transcripted or recorded on the student’s academic record at the college.

Certificate of Proficiency Requirements

The specific course requirements for each certificate of proficiency are listed in the degree and certificate section of this catalog.

To earn the certificate of proficiency students must

  1. Complete all of the courses in the certificate program with grade of “A,” “B,” “C,” or “P.” 

  2. Complete a minimum of 12 units in the certificate program at Irvine Valley College. If the total requirement for the certificate of proficiency is less than 12 units, students must complete all of the courses at Irvine Valley College. See counselor for assistance. 

  3. Submit an online application for evaluation (in MySite) with the Office of Admissions and Records in order to receive the certificate.

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Earning an Associate Degree

Associate in Arts and Associate in Science Degrees

Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees are designed for students who want to earn a two-year college degree, whether to enter directly into professional programs, career/technical training or specific employment; to achieve a personal or career goal; or to prepare for transfer to the University of California (UC), California State University (CSU), or a private or out-of-state university. Students who plan to transfer are encouraged to complete an associate degree. It may improve job opportunities while the student completes their education.

Students who intend to earn an associate degree prior to transfer are advised to consult with the counseling faculty as early as possible to develop an appropriate educational plan to achieve their academic goals and degree and their transfer objectives. This is especially important because different transfer institutions require specific general education patterns and lower-division courses to fulfill major requirements. 

Graduation requirements for an associate degree are explained here: 2016-17 Associate Degree General Education Requirements .

Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) or Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T)

California Community Colleges are now offering associate degrees for transfer to the CSU.  These may include Associate in Arts (AA-T) or Associate in Science (AS-T) degrees.  These degrees are designed to provide a clear pathway to a CSU major and baccalaureate degree.  California Community College students who are awarded an AA-T or AS-T degree are guaranteed admission with junior standing somewhere in the CSU system and given priority admission consideration to their local CSU campus or to a program that is deemed similar to their community college major. This priority does not guarantee admission to specific majors or campuses. Students who have been awarded an AA-T or AS-T are able to complete their remaining requirements for the 120-unit baccalaureate degree within 60 semester or 90 quarter units. 

Current and prospective community college students are encouraged to meet with a counselor to review their options for transfer and to develop an educational plan that best meets their goals and needs.

At the time of catalog publication, a student may earn an AA-T in Anthropology, Art History, Communication Studies, Economics, Elementary Teacher Education, English, Geography, History, Kinesiology, Music, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, Spanish, Studio Art,s or Theatre Arts, or an AS-T in Administration of Justice, Business Administration, Computer Science, Early Childhood Education, Geology, Mathematics, or Physics. See a counselor and visit adegreewithaguarantee.com or www.ivc.edu/catalog for more information and updates.

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Requirements for the AA-T and AS-T Degrees

The following is required for all AA-T or AS-T degrees:

  1. Minimum of 60 CSU-transferable semester units.
  2. Minimum grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.0 in all CSU-transferable coursework. While a minimum of 2.0 is required for admission, some majors may require a higher GPA. Please consult with a counselor for more information.
  3. Completion of a minimum of 18 semester units in an “AA-T” or “AS-T” major as detailed in the degrees section of this catalog. All courses in the major must be completed with a grade of “C” or better. (Title 5 § 55063).
  4. Certified completion of the California State University General Education-Breadth pattern (2016-17 CSU General Education Requirements ); OR the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) pattern (2016-17 IGETC Requirements ).

Multiple Majors

Students may elect to complete the requirements for more than one departmental major under the following conditions:

  1. The student must meet the minimum requirements for each major; and
  2. At least 12 of the required units in a major must be separate and distinct from the required units of the other major.

Multiple majors earned under one degree in the same semester/term will be posted as one degree with multiple majors on the student’s official transcript and diploma.

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Associate Degree Graduation Requirements

The South Orange County Community College District Board of Trustees, upon the recommendation of the faculty of Irvine Valley College, will confer the associate degree upon completion of the following requirements:

  1. Major Requirement
    Complete the courses required for the associate degree major (AA or AS), or the associate degree for transfer (AA-T or AS-T).  A grade of “A,” “B,” “C,” or “P” is required for all courses to be counted toward the major. Students may apply courses to fulfill both major requirements and general education requirements. 
  2. Unit Requirement
    Complete a minimum of 60 units of credit. Courses numbered 1-299 at IVC are applicable toward the Associate in Arts (AA) and Associate in Science (AS) degrees; however, IVC courses numbered 200-299 are typically nontransferable to UC and CSU and may not apply toward the AA-T or AS-T degrees. Students may count only one English course below transfer-level freshman composition (Writing 201 at IVC) as credit toward the associate degree. Writing 1 is the first transfer-level composition course.
  3. Scholarship Requirement
    Maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.0 in all units attempted at Irvine Valley College and a combined 2.0 grade point average including all work transferred to the college except basic skills courses. A grade of “A,” “B,” “C,” or “P” is required for all courses to be counted toward the major (AA, AS, AA-T, or AS-T).
  4. Residency Requirement (AA, AS)
    Complete a minimum of 12 units, of the 60 total semester units, in residence at Irvine Valley College.
  5. General Education Requirements
    Students are urged to consult an IVC counselor for assistance in forming an educational plan prior to choosing their general education pattern and degree. Students may apply courses to fulfill both major requirements and general education requirements.
    Complete A, B, or C:
    1. The Irvine Valley College Associate Degree General Education Requirements (2016-17 Associate Degree General Education Requirements ), or
    2. The California State University General Education Breadth Certification Pattern (2016-17 CSU General Education Requirements ), or
    3. The Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (2016-17 IGETC Requirements ).
      NOTE: Students pursuing an AA-T or AS-T must choose option B or C above. See AA-T/AS-T requirements below.
  6. Competency Requirement (AA, AS)
    Writing Competency Requirement: Complete WR 1 with a grade of “A,” “B,” “C,” or “P.”
    AND
    Mathematics Competency Requirement: Complete MATH 253 (Intermediate Algebra) or a higher-level course in mathematics with a grade of “A,” “B,” “C,” or “P.”

Instructions For AA-T and AS-T Majors:

To earn an Associate in Arts or Science for Transfer, you must complete the following requirements:

  1. Complete 60 CSU-transferable semester units.
  2. Minimum grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.0 in all CSU-transferable coursework. While a minimum of 2.0 is required for admission, some majors may require a higher GPA. Please consult with a counselor for more information.
  3. Complete units in the major as detailed in the degree section of this catalog. All courses in the major must be completed with a grade of “C” or better. 
  4. Certified completion of the California State University General Education-Breadth pattern (2016-17 CSU General Education Requirements ); OR the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum pattern (2016-17 IGETC Requirements ).

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Filing Deadlines:
Degrees and Certificates

Fall 2016:   September 1, 2016
Spring 2017:   February 1, 2017
Summer 2017:   June 1, 2017

Deadlines are subject to change without notice.

Online applications are available on MySite. Applications submitted after a deadline date are included in the next semester. Online applications for CSU GE Breadth or IGETC certification have no filing deadlines and are processed when coursework is completed. For information about applying for CSU GE Breadth and IGETC certification, below.

Students must submit their online application for graduation with the Office of Admissions and Records by February 1, 2017, to participate in the May 2017 commencement ceremony. Information about graduation, including application deadlines, is available online on the admissions page of the college’s website: admissions.ivc.edu

Students applying for Associate in Arts for Transfer or Associate in Science for Transfer degrees should check application deadlines with the Office of Admissions and Records. Online applications submitted after a deadline date are included in the next semester. 

Online applications for CSU GE Breadth or IGETC certification have no filing deadlines and are processed when coursework is completed. Please note that students who receive CSU GE Breadth and IGETC certifications also receive a certificate of achievement and are eligible to participate in commencement. Students who wish to attend commencement should apply by February 1, 2017.

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CSU GE Breadth and IGETC Certification

To earn an associate degree, students must complete a set of general education requirements. Fulfilling the Irvine Valley College general education requirements for the associate degree is one option available to students pursuing the AA or AS degree. Many students-especially those who are planning to transfer to a four-year college or university-opt to fulfill their lower-division general education requirements by completing either the California State University (CSU) General Education Breadth Certification pattern or the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC). Students who complete either of these general education patterns must have their work officially certified by the Office of Admissions and Records. 

Filing an Application for CSU GE Breadth or IGETC Certification

Certification for CSU and IGETC is not awarded automatically. Students who expect to complete transfer certification must log on to MySite and submit an online application with the Office of Admissions and Records in the semester that certification is to be completed. Official transcripts from other colleges must be on file or included when filing an application. Official high school transcripts should also be filed for IGETC certification. Online applications for certification have no filing deadlines and are processed when coursework is completed. Students who complete CSU GE Breadth or IGETC certification will also receive a certificate of achievement in CSU GE Breadth or IGETC certification. Those wishing to participate in the May commencement ceremony should familiarize themselves with commencement deadlines and guidelines. Information about graduation, including application deadlines, is also available online on the admissions page of the college’s website: www.ivc.edu. For the CSU certification pattern, see 2016-17 CSU General Education Requirements . For the IGETC pattern, see 2016-17 IGETC Requirements .

Submitting an Application for Graduation

Associate degrees are not awarded automatically.  Students who expect to graduate from the college must log on to MySite and submit an online application for a degree with the Office of Admissions and Records.  Students who apply for degrees or certificates by February 1, 2017, will be evaluated for participation in May commencement ceremonies. Responsibility for filing this application rests with the student, and transcripts for all college work attempted must be on file for the application to be accepted. 

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Commencement

Commencement is held once a year, in May, for students who have completed the requirements for their degree or certificate of achievement any semester during the year, including the prior summer session.  Students must submit their online application for graduation with the Office of Admissions and Records by February 1, 2017, to participate in the May commencement ceremony.  Information about graduation, including application deadlines, is available online on the admissions page of the college’s website: www.ivc.edu.

Second Degree Requirements

Students with Baccalaureate Degrees or Higher Degrees

Students seeking an associate degree after having previously received a baccalaureate (or higher) degree may qualify for a second degree by

  1. Completing those general education requirements for which equivalents have not been completed;
  2. Completing a minimum of 12 units in residence;
  3. (a) Meeting the minimum requirements of the major and
    (b) Completing at least 12 of the required units in the second major that are separate and distinct from the required units of their first major; and
  4. Achieving a minimum grade point average of 2.0 or above for all units counted toward the degree.

Students who have previously earned the equivalent of a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) from a foreign educational institution will be evaluated on an individual basis. See a counselor for further assistance.

Transfer Credit from Foreign Institutions

Students seeking evaluation of foreign coursework must provide a transcript evaluated by an accredited evaluation and translation service (see the Counseling Center or International Student Center for referrals). Students must turn in the official evaluation to the Office of Admissions and Records for inclusion in their record and then schedule an appointment with the Counseling Center so that their transfer work may be evaluated. Coursework from foreign institutions cannot be used for CSU GE Breadth or IGETC certification except to validate the foreign language requirement.

Students with Associate Degrees from Other Colleges

Students seeking a second associate degree after having previously received an associate degree from another college may qualify for a second degree by

  1. Completing those general education requirements for which equivalents have not been completed;
  2. Completing a minimum of 12 units in residence;
  3. (a) Meeting the minimum requirements of the major and
    (b) Completing at least 12 of the required units in the second major that are separate and distinct from the required units of their first major; and
  4. Achieving a minimum grade point average of 2.0 or above for all units counted toward the degree.

Students with Prior Degrees from Irvine Valley College

Students seeking a second associate degree after having previously received an associate degree from Irvine Valley College may qualify for an additional degree if

  1. They have completed those general education requirements for which equivalents have not been completed;
  2. (a) They have met the minimum requirements for the second major and
    (b) At least 12 of the required units in the second major are separate and distinct from the required units of their first major; and
  3. They have achieved a minimum grade point average of 2.0 or above for all units counted toward the degree.

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General Education

Philosophy of General Education

The college faculty determines the scope and content of the general education requirements in the belief that students graduating with a degree from Irvine Valley College should be liberally as well as specifically educated. 

The philosophy underlying a “general education” is that no discipline is an isolated endeavor; instead, each relies upon and informs a common body of knowledge, ideas, intellectual processes, cultural traditions, and modes of perception. One’s understanding of a specific subject area is greatly enhanced and enriched by knowledge in and experience with other disciplines. The well-educated student is one who is able to imagine, evaluate, and respond in a wide variety of ways and in a plurality of contexts. 

The faculty expects that all students receiving degrees from the college will meet minimum standards in reading, writing, speaking, critical thinking, and mathematics and be broadly exposed to the natural and social sciences, the humanities, and the arts and languages, disciplines within which the human search for knowledge is carried out. 

General Education Categories

Language and Rationality

Reading and Writing

Courses in this category enable students to write clearly and effectively, particularly for the purposes of conducting an analysis, presenting a point of view, or expressing an idea or opinion; to read critically and perceptively in a variety of fields and from a variety of texts; and to reason in a logical and coherent fashion, recognizing and avoiding common fallacies of thought.

Speaking

Courses that fulfill this requirement emphasize the study of the nature, processes, and effects of human symbolic interaction, both verbal and nonverbal. These courses should provide theoretical and practical instruction in mass communication theory. They should also require that students research, outline, and deliver a platform presentation. Courses in this category should enable students to listen critically; to express a position reasonably; and to deliver an oral presentation in public, recognizing the need to adapt their delivery to reach a plurality of audiences for a variety of purposes.

Critical Thinking

Courses that fulfill this requirement are designed to provide theoretical and practical instruction in “good thinking” in a general sense. More specifically, such courses emphasize knowledge and skills that enable students to reach factual or judgmental conclusions concerning any topic without fallacy and on the basis of good reasons. Thus, students are instructed in general principles concerning the interpretation of evidence, deductive and inductive inference, and the pitfalls of language and persuasion. Critical thinking courses enable students to move beyond the passive collection of evidence or data and rather engage students in active analytical and evaluative thinking.

Mathematics

Courses in this category enable students to develop mathematical thinking skills, construct logical arguments, and make valid inferences. In addition to their intrinsic value, these courses also train students in quantitative skills that are essential to many other disciplines.

American Institutions

Courses in this category provide students with basic education in American history and its political system. Beyond this, they are designed to provide a theoretical and practical framework within which students can examine central themes associated with the development of an American historical narrative, political system, and its corresponding national institutions. Instruction in these courses emphasizes the study of historical themes, issues, and events as a method of developing critical intelligence and awareness of these forces in the formation of a national identity and value system. The skills acquired in these courses allow students to examine the extent to which these values and patterns of identity are reflected in American political structures, procedures, and institutions. 

Natural Sciences

A complete education includes training in the scientific method and the fundamental principles of natural science. These principles govern our world and have generated the technologies which run society and allow us to explore the universe. An understanding of the physical and biological sciences and the methods of scientific reasoning significantly enhances a person’s ability to make political, moral, and social decisions.

Courses that fulfill this requirement should include an examination of physical and life science concepts, principles, theories, and laws. They should expose students to the methods of conducting scientific investigation in laboratory and field settings through observation; the collection, synthesis, and analysis of data; making calculations; graphing and drawing; and explaining conclusions. Finally, these courses should help students integrate the methods and concerns of the empirical sciences with technology and their applications in our daily lives.

Social Sciences

An education must include training in the scientific/empirical method of inquiry used in the social and behavioral sciences, as well as the fundamental principles that govern these disciplines. These principles influence the processes of human interaction, human behavior, and social institutions and help to define us individually and collectively as a society. An understanding of the principles of the social and behavioral sciences, combined with critical thinking, enhances an individual’s ability to make responsible political, moral, and social decisions in the modern, everyday world.

Courses that fulfill this requirement explore the nature of individual and collective human behavior; the political, economic, social, and psychological structures/institutions of human beings; and the challenges of developing and sustaining interpersonal and intercultural relationships. These courses should provide instruction in the fundamental principles of the scientific method and the subsequent body of knowledge accumulated through its proper application-data collection, synthesis, and analysis. Such courses should encourage students to develop a healthy skepticism of “explanations” of human behavior, human interaction, and social institutions which lack rigorous examination by qualified social scientists and/or are based upon faulty scientific methodology or unclear thinking. Thus, courses that fulfill the social and behavioral sciences requirement should engage in a high level of critical thinking so that students develop the skills required to make informed political, ethical, moral, and social decisions as participants in a successful democracy.

Humanities

Courses that fulfill this requirement introduce students to the methods and values of humanistic study. These courses investigate the role that philosophy, literature, history, and the arts play in the shaping of human culture and the nature of humanity. Such courses undertake a critical appraisal of the central traditions, values, ideas, and texts by means of which cultures and civilizations-both Western and Eastern-have come to be formulated. Courses in this category also evaluate the major narratives of a culture in common ideas and opinions, in the fabrication of their histories, and in the major fictional and nonfictional texts of a civilization, ancient to modern. Central to these courses is the meaning of the human condition.

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Fine Arts and Languages

Fine Arts

Courses in this category should engage students in the discovery and appreciation of the methods, value systems, processes, and products of the fine arts, including music, art, photography, speech, and theatre. These courses should develop students’ understanding of-as well as their ability to respond to-the aesthetic significance of the formal order called “beauty” and a freer order characterized by the expression of “feeling.” Courses that fulfill this requirement should enable students to examine and respond to the world as it has been represented over time and across cultures in visual, aural, tactile, and dramatic forms; to express their ideas and attitudes in an artistic medium; and to appreciate the contributions that the fine arts have made in establishing and preserving our cultural and historical traditions.

Languages

Courses in this category encourage students to be competent at communicating in a foreign language, at least at the beginning level. These courses should require that students comprehend and converse in another language as well as gain insight into the daily life and culture of the peoples whose language they are studying. Included in this category may be alternative forms of human communication- such as sign language-which provide students with a broad understanding of the process of acquiring language.

Cultural Diversity

Courses that fulfill this requirement assist students in achieving a more comprehensive educational experience and cultural perspective by exposing them to historical and cultural patterns that lie outside the framework of the Western and European traditions. Students may select courses investigating non-Eurocentric cultures, such as those of Africa or Asia; one of the many cultures indigenous to the Americas; or one or more of the various ethnic groups in the United States that originated in Africa or Asia. In fulfilling this requirement, students are equipped with the requisite intellectual tools to understand and appreciate an increasingly diverse local, national, and world context; to compete effectively in the global economy; to derive stimulation and knowledge from culturally diverse perspectives; and to maintain a spirit of openness for and understanding of other cultures and lifestyles.

Lifelong Health and Personal Development

Courses in this category focus on developing the processes that contribute to successful lifelong learning, understanding, and self-development. Such courses encourage students to be attentive to the health and well-being of their minds and bodies, resourceful about managing and improving the practical circumstances of their lives, and informed of ways and means by which the individual may promote lifelong personal health and personal development. Courses that fulfill this requirement should focus on the interdependence of the physiological, social/cultural, practical, and psychological/emotional factors that contribute to an individual’s development, pose limitations, engender potential, and offer options to the individual throughout his or her life. 

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Associate Degree General Education Requirements 2016-17

2016-17 Irvine Valley College Associate Degree General Education Requirements    

Please click on the above link to access the 2016-17 IVC associate degree general education requirements guidance sheet. For more specific information, please see a counselor before enrolling in these courses. Students are encouraged to see a counselor by appointment to discuss the IVC General Education option as part of an educational plan. 

California State University (CSU) General Education Breadth Certification 2016-17

2016-17 Irvine Valley College CSU General Education Certification Form    

Please click on the above link to access the 2016-17 IVC CSU general education breadth certification form. For more specific information, please see a counselor before enrolling in these courses.

Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) 2016-17

2016-17 Irvine Valley College IGETC Form    

Please click on the above link to access the 2016-17 IVC IGETC form. General information may be found below. For more specific information, please see a counselor before enrolling in these courses.

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Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) Information

The Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) is a series of courses prospective transfer students attending California community colleges may complete to satisfy the lower-division breadth/general education requirements at both the University of California and the California State University. It was developed to simplify the transfer process for students. The University of California has developed an agreement with each California community college that specifies which of its courses may be applied to each category of the IGETC. All IGETC coursework does not have to be completed at the same college. Courses taken at more than one California community college may be used to fulfill the IGETC. However, the application of courses to IGETC subject areas may vary from college to college. 

The IGETC is most helpful to students who want to keep their options open­-those who know they want to transfer but have not yet decided upon a particular institution, campus or major. Certain students, however, will not be well served by following the IGETC.  If students intend to transfer into a major that requires extensive lower-division preparation, such as engineering or the physical and natural sciences, they should concentrate on completing the many prerequisites for the major that the college screens for to determine eligibility for admission (see IGETC Exceptions, below). Irvine Valley College counselors or UC or CSU admissions representatives can give students additional information about IGETC and advise them of which path is best for each student. 

Completing the lower-division breadth/general education requirements-through the IGETC or the campus-specific requirements (depending upon the program)-may improve a transfer applicant’s chances for admission to a competitive campus and/or program. 

GPA REQUIREMENT: IGETC courses must be completed with a grade of “A,” “B,” “C,” or “P.” For “P” (“Pass”) grades, students are allowed a limited number of units-preferably not in Area 1 (writing courses) and Area 2 (math and statistics courses) and certainly not for major preparation courses. These courses should be completed for a letter grade.

APPLYING COURSES: Courses may be used only once to satisfy one IGETC subject area, even if they are listed in the course agreement under more than one subject area. Courses may be used to satisfy both the IGETC and major requirements.

IGETC CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT: Students who complete the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) will be awarded a certificate of achievement by Irvine Valley College. 

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA IGETC EXCEPTIONS: Students with a substantial amount of coursework from institutions outside the United States should consult with a counselor. Visit assist.org for more information. Per the UC system:

BERKELEY: College of Letters and Science: Either IGETC or the college’s requirements (Reading and Composition, Quantitative Reasoning, and Language Other than English) are required by end of spring term preceding fall enrollment at Berkeley. Colleges of Engineering and Chemistry: In general, IGETC is not appropriate. College of Natural Resources: IGETC is acceptable; however specific lower division major requirements must still be satisfied. College of Environmental Design: IGETC is acceptable with full certification to fulfill CED’s breadth requirements. Partial certification will not complete the requirements. Haas School of Business: IGETC is not accepted. 

DAVIS: All undergraduate colleges accept IGETC. However, Bachelor of Science degrees and high- unit majors often have many courses for lower- division preparation; in these cases, IGETC is not recommended and the UC Davis general education pattern is the better choice.

IRVINE: All schools accept IGETC. However, selection by the campus is based on demonstrated academic achievement and preparation for the intended major.

LOS ANGELES: IGETC is acceptable in all schools.

MERCED: School of Engineering: IGETC is strongly discouraged but accepted as students are encouraged to focus on lower-division major preparation prior to transfer. School of Natural Sciences: IGETC is not recommended but accepted as students are encouraged to focus on lower-division major preparation prior to transfer. School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts: IGETC is recommended and students are encouraged to complete as much lower-division major preparation as possible prior to transfer.

RIVERSIDE: College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences: IGETC is recommended. College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences: IGETC is not accepted. Bourns College of Engineering: IGETC is acceptable; some additional coursework may be required. School of Business Administration: IGETC is required. 

SAN DIEGO: John Muir, Earl Warren, Eleanor Roosevelt, Thurgood Marshall and Sixth Colleges: IGETC clears lower-division GE requirements; some upper-division courses required after enrollment. Revelle College: IGETC is acceptable; however some additional coursework may be required after enrollment.

SANTA BARBARA: College of Letters and Science: IGETC is acceptable. College of Creative Studies: IGETC is acceptable. College of Engineering: Students are encouraged to focus on major preparation rather than general education, but may use IGETC to substitute for most general education requirements. However, some additional coursework may be required after enrollment to complete the depth requirement if not satisfied during IGETC certification. Students planning to transfer to UCSB into a major in engineering, computer science, biological or physical sciences, or economics must be careful to complete lower-division major prerequisites to ensure competitiveness and make normal, timely progress through their major. 

SANTA CRUZ: For physical/biological science majors or the Jack Baskin School of Engineering, IGETC is not recommended. Students should ensure completion of lower-division courses for their intended major.

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University of California (UC) Course List

2016-17 UC Course List    

Please click on the above link to access the 2016-17 UC Course List. The UC Course List identifies Irvine Valley College courses that transfer to the UC and explains UC credit provisos, if any. For the most up-to-date information about the status of a course, students are advised to log on to www.assist.org, the official source for California articulation and student transfer information.

Cross Enrollment at California State University or the University of California

Irvine Valley College (IVC) students who are California residents have the unique opportunity to attend California State University (CSU) or University of California (UC) campuses while they are still at IVC. This program is especially useful for community college students who might want to transfer to a local CSU or UC campus.

Eligible students may enroll in one undergraduate course per academic term at any CSU or UC campus without formal admission and without payment of additional state university fees. 

Cross enrollment through this program is on a space-available basis at the discretion of the appropriate campus authorities at IVC and the UC or CSU campus. Students may not enroll in any pre-collegiate courses at the university.

Eligibility Requirements:

All of the following conditions must be met to qualify for cross enrollment.The student must:

  • Be a California resident;
  • Have completed at least 12 units at IVC as a matriculated student;
  • Have earned a grade point average of 2.0 (or better) for all coursework completed at IVC;
  • Be enrolled in at least 6 units at IVC for the term the student plans to take a class at the CSU or UC;
  • Have paid all fees owed to IVC for the current term; and
  • Have completed any prerequisites needed to take the classes at the CSU or UC. The host school will make the determination regarding prerequisite completion.

Enrollment Conditions:

  1. Approval for cross enrollment is valid for only the one term specified and is subject to space availability, deadlines, registration procedures and priorities of the host campus. Students must reapply for each term they wish to cross enroll.

  2. Students will not be charged additional course enrollment fees. However, host campuses may charge an administration fee each term.

  3. Students who are cross-enrolled will have to pay any additional fees required of all other students (labs, materials, breakage, computer, transcripts, etc.).

  4. Academic advisement is available through the IVC Counseling Center. Students are advised to check with an IVC counselor before enrolling in classes to ensure that the course meets their educational goals and is transferable.

  5. Evidence of completion of prerequisites may be required at the time of enrollment by the host campus (student transcripts or official grade reports).

  6. Financial aid is available only through the IVC Financial Aid Office. Students using veterans, federal, or state funding must secure eligibility certification through the IVC Financial Aid Office.

  7. Records of credit earned through cross enrollment are maintained by the host campus. In order to have credit earned through cross enrollment used for degree or transfer evaluation, students must request that transcripts be sent to the IVC Office of Admissions and Records.

  8. Health services on the host campus are limited to treatment of emergencies only.

  9. Because of overlapping academic calendars, cross enrollment is possible only in the following combinations: 

IVC Calendar Host Campus Calendar (CSU or UC)
Fall Semester Fall Semester or Quarter
Spring Semester Either Spring Semester or Winter or Spring Quarter
Summer Session Summer Session or Quarter

  1. Participation in student activities or use of the student union at the host campus is subject to limitations set by the host campus.

  2. Parking on the host campus is available by purchasing the parking permit or paying the daily fee available at the host campus.

  3. Information concerning campus identification card policies should be obtained during registration at the host campus.

  4. Students are subject to all administrative procedures of the host campus.  

The IVC Office of Admissions and Records, the Transfer Center, and IVC counselors are available to help students take advantage of the cross enrollment program.

For more information, students may refer to the Admissions web page at admissions.ivc.edu or contact the Irvine Valley College Transfer Center in the Student Services Center, Room 230, 949-451-5339.

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Transfer Planning

Introduction

There are four segments of higher education in California: (a) the University of California (UC) system with ten campuses; (b) the California State University (CSU) system with 23 campuses; (c) the approximately 75 accredited independent colleges and universities; and (d) the 113 community colleges.

Although an associate degree is not a requirement for transfer, the faculty of the School of Guidance and Counseling at IVC generally recommend that students complete the degree. With proper planning, students should be able to meet both the requirements for graduation from Irvine Valley College with an associate degree and the requirements for transfer to a four-year institution. The newly developed Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) and Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T) degrees are intended to help students achieve both of these goals.

The requirements for earning an associate are described here. The Counseling Center also provides specific information about requirements for each associate degree major.

Transfer Center

The Transfer Center is located on the second floor of the Student Services Center in Room SSC 230. The center offers a wide range of services for all students planning to transfer. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the resources that will assist them throughout the transfer process and should make a point of visiting the center each semester they are at IVC. Services include individual appointments with university representatives, university campus tours, and transfer fairs. Students are advised to meet with an IVC counselor to plan their program of study in addition to using the Transfer Center resources.

ASSIST Articulation System

ASSIST is the official source for California articulation and student transfer information. It is a computerized student transfer information system that can be accessed at www.assist.org. The site displays reports of how course credits earned at one California college (including IVC) or university can be applied when transferred to another. Students may also access ASSIST from computers in the Transfer Center. 

Transfer Majors

Students are advised to access ASSIST at www.assist.org for a complete list of university majors and the campuses where these majors are available. Knowing which courses are required for major preparation will help students plan their educational program. The Irvine Valley College Counseling faculty can also provide valuable assistance to students in pursuing the major and transfer institution of their choice.

General Education/Breadth

Most educational institutions develop a set of general education or breadth requirements to ensure that their graduating students have received a well-rounded education. 

The California State University General Education (CSU GE) and the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) patterns are articulation agreements intended to assist students who plan to continue their education at a California State University or University of California campus. 

The Transfer Center and Counseling Center keep additional information about general education requirements of specific campuses of these institutions, as well as requirements of independent colleges, many of which will accept the IGETC as an alternative to their own general education requirements. Students are advised to visit the Transfer Center and Counseling Center for assistance in planning a transfer program.

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FAQs About Transferring

  1. Which courses do I have to take?
    In general, English and math are required whether you are transferring to a UC, CSU, private, or out-of-state school. Depending on your placement results, it may be necessary to take nontransferable courses before you begin your transferable English and math courses. As a transfer student, you need to declare a major when you apply to the university; so, in addition to completing general education courses (IGETC or CSU Certification), it is important to complete courses that are part of the lower-division preparation for your major. Go to www.assist.org to access information about courses required for the major. Ideally, you will want to know your major as far ahead as possible before you transfer. If your major requires math and science (e.g., engineering, biology, or computer science), it is especially important that you complete those courses before you transfer.
     
  2. Do I have to get all requirements out of the way first?
    Basically, if you’re not sure where you’re going, how do you know which set of requirements to follow? Every university is going to have a similar, but somewhat different, pattern of requirements. Specific majors have extensive requirements that must be completed prior to transferring. Examples of these majors are engineering, architecture, art, music, and most sciences (consult a counselor regarding requirements for these majors).
     
  3. What if I don’t know what I want to major in or where I want to transfer?This is typical of students everywhere. Again, these decisions take time and exposure, so don’t pressure yourself into making a premature decision. Deciding what you will major in may eliminate a certain amount of anxiety, but if you make an unexamined choice, you may easily select the wrong major. You are encouraged to sign up for Counseling 102, Career Exploration and Life Planning, a course designed to assist students in deciding on a career, or Counseling 1, Academic Planning, a course designed to assist students in developing an individualized educational plan.
     
  4. How can I become eligible to transfer as a junior to the UC or CSU system?

    If you’re not eligible to enter UC or CSU as a high school senior, you need to complete 60 transferable units with a minimum 2.0 GPA (2.4 if you are a nonresident) for CSU, and 60 transferable units with a minimum 2.4 GPA (2.8 if you are a nonresident) for UC. You must also clear up any course deficiencies you may have had as a graduating high school senior (e.g., algebra, English, lab science, etc.). 

    Meeting these criteria establishes minimum eligibility but does not guarantee admission. As a California community college student, you will be given preference over transfer students from four-year universities. The only exception to this policy is entrance into impacted majors, where you must meet other criteria as stipulated. Check with a counselor to find out if the major you’re considering is impacted at any of the UC or CSU campuses. Also ask a counselor about the new Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) and Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T) degrees, which guarantee admission to a CSU campus, and about TAG (Transfer Admission Guarantee) programs to seven of the UC campuses.

  5. How can I tell if a course is transferable?
    The “transferability” of a course is indicated by its number. Almost every IVC course numbered 1-199 will transfer to the CSU system. UC will accept most courses numbered 1-99; however, there are exceptions to this rule. Be sure to check the 2016-17 UC Course List  and confer with an IVC counselor if you have any questions about the transferability of a particular course.
     
  6. What’s an associate degree? Do I need one to transfer?

    An associate degree signifies you have completed two years of college study. Having the degree can be useful when you are applying for jobs or seeking promotions. You do not have to complete the degree in order to transfer, but you can earn the degree by completing the same courses as those required to transfer. For many students, getting the degree is rewarding; it functions as a benchmark along the way to a bachelor’s degree. 

    You should be aware that requirements for the associate degree may not be the same as requirements for transfer. The new Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) and Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T) degrees allow students to complete both an associate degree and lower-division transfer requirements for a major. It is important to consult with a counselor to formulate an educational plan that will best suit your individual needs and goals.

  7. What are “articulation agreements”?

    These are agreements developed cooperatively between IVC and other colleges indicating comparable courses and transferability. They are used in planning your transfer program. IVC has articulation agreements with all UC and most CSU campuses, and with many of the private colleges in Orange County and Los Angeles. 

    If the college or university you plan to attend does not currently have an articulation agreement with IVC, make an appointment with a counselor. Bring the catalog of the transfer institution to the appointment. 

    All students are encouraged to go to www.assist.org to find the most up-to-date articulation information with all UC and CSU campuses. For more information, visit the Transfer Center (949-451-5339) or meet with a counselor (949-451-5251).

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California Community Colleges

Click here to view a map of all of the California community colleges.     

California State University Campuses

S = Semester System Q = Quarter System

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California State University Admission Requirements

The most up-to-date information about admission to CSU is available at www.csumentor.edu.

Lower Division Transfer Requirements

If you have completed 59 or fewer semester or 89 or fewer quarter transferable units by the time you plan to enter a CSU, you are considered a lower-division applicant. To make admission decisions, CSU admission offices look at the following:

  • High school requirements (see below),
  • Your college courses and grades,
  • Whether you are in good standing at the last college or university attended.

Some campuses will also expect you to complete, with a grade of “C” or better, general education classes in English composition and general education mathematics prior to admission.

High School Requirements:

  • The courses you completed in high school.
  • Your high school grades and test scores.
  • Graduation from high school.

If you did not complete the 15-unit pattern of college preparatory subjects required for freshman admission while in high school, you must make up the deficiencies.

If you are a lower-division student and do not meet the eligibility index from high school, CSU recommends that you continue your education at a California community college and complete 60 or more transferable semester units (90 or more quarter units) before attempting to transfer to a CSU campus.

Please be aware that some CSU campuses do not admit lower-division transfer students.

Students who completed college units before they graduated from high school or during the summer between high school graduation and CSU enrollment are considered first-time freshmen and must meet those admission requirements.

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Upper Division Transfer Admission Requirements

If you will have at least 60 semester (or 90 quarter) transferable units completed by the time you enter a CSU, you are considered an upper-division applicant. To make admission decisions, CSU admissions offices look at three factors:

  • Your college grades
  • The college coursework you have completed, especially in general education
  • Whether you are in good standing at the last college or university attended-i.e., you are eligible to re-enroll

The better you prepare at IVC and prior colleges, the more likely you will meet admission requirements at your first-choice CSU campus.

Grade Requirements

Grades are an important factor in your admission as an upper-division transfer. It is important to note that there are different ways grades are used in the admission process.

You must have a minimum of 60 semester (or 90 quarter) units. Your overall grade point average must be at least 2.0 (2.40 for California nonresidents.) The GPA is calculated using all transfer units attempted.

Within the transferable courses, there must be 30 units of general education work. Typically you complete at least 10 general education courses. In the case of high-unit majors, you may have less than 30 semester (or 45 quarter) units, but the campuses will be looking at your general education grades. If you are applying to a high-unit major, be sure to check with the CSU campus for their requirements in this area.

Finally, general education courses in the written communication, oral communication, critical thinking and mathematics sections of general education must be completed with a grade of “C” or better for each course. These four courses are part of the 30 semester units of general education.

Remember these are minimums, and in the case of high-demand majors and campuses a 2.0 GPA may not be high enough to be admitted.

Important! Be sure to complete the four minimally required courses listed above with a grade of “C” or better- English composition, oral communication, critical thinking, and math, as well as 60 transferable units-by the end of the spring semester at the very latest for fall admission and by the end of summer for spring admission to be considered for admission at most CSU campuses. To be competitive, it is advised to take these courses as early as possible.

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General Education Requirements

For most students who transfer to the CSU, completing general education classes should be a priority along with premajor coursework.

The CSU provides California Community College transfers with two options for fulfilling CSU lower division general education requirements: CSU General Education (GE) Breadth and the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC). A college counselor can help you determine which option is best for you.

Most CSU campuses require students to complete a minimum of 30 semester (or 45 quarter) units of the CSU GE-Breadth or the IGETC. Within either pattern, the highest-priority classes are the three courses in the English language-oral communications, English composition and critical thinking-along with a general education course in mathematics.

Completion of general education courses prior to transfer is usually the most efficient path. You can complete a maximum of 39 semester units of CSU GE Breadth before transferring to a CSU.

If you are pursuing a high-unit major such as engineering, some math-based fields, science, or other technical majors, you will need to work closely with a counselor to plan which classes you should take for upper-division transfer. CSU campuses do allow high-unit majors to take fewer general education courses before transfer. Ultimately you will need to meet the general education requirements in order to graduate from CSU. So if you enroll at CSU with few general education units, completion of your baccalaureate program may take longer than expected. Good planning with your counselor is essential if you enroll in a high-unit major.

Good Standing Requirement

In order to transfer to the CSU, you must be in “good standing” at your prior college. In simple terms, good standing means you are eligible to reenroll at your last college or university.

For most students this is not a problem, and generally if you meet the other requirements for admission you would also meet this requirement. If you are not in good standing, you will have to resolve any issues with that college or university.

Placement Tests in English and Math

Upper-division transfer students who have completed English composition and college-level math courses with grades of “A,” “B,” “C,” or “P” are exempt from the CSU English Placement Test (EPT) and the Entry-Level Mathematics Test (ELM). Upper-division transfer students must complete both English composition and college-level mathematics prior to enrolling at a CSU campus.

Incomplete Admissions Requirements

As transfer applicants, students are required to submit final transcripts prior to attending CSU. A final review will be done to verify the student’s successful completion of the courses. If applicants did not complete the courses needed for admission, the CSU campus to which they applied may delay or cancel their admission or enrollment until they successfully complete the required courses.

Transcripts

The deadline for submitting transcripts varies from campus to campus. It is the student’s responsibility to check with each campus for transcript deadlines. Failure to adhere to deadlines may result in denial of admission.

Students should request that official transcripts be sent from all colleges and universities that they attended previously, even if no coursework was completed. If students are transferring with fewer than 60 transferable semester (90 quarter) units completed, they must also submit their high school transcript. Transcripts must be received in sealed envelopes directly from each institution the student attended.

Online Application Filing Periods

The priority filing period for fall admission is October 1-November 30 the year prior to transfer. The filing period for spring admission is August 1-August 31. It is essential to check with the campus to ensure that it is accepting applications for the spring semester. Students should plan to submit their applications early in the filing period.

PLEASE NOTE: The CSU campuses may be limited in their ability to accommodate winter and spring transfers due to budget uncertainties. Students should not count on midyear transfer. Consult with a counselor for the best possible transfer plan.

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University of California Campuses

S = Semester System    Q = Quarter System

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University of California Admission Requirements

Minimum Requirements for Transfer Applicants

Please note: The following requirements represent the minimum level of achievement necessary to be eligible for admission to the University of California (UC). Completion of these requirements does not guarantee admission to UC, especially into impacted majors.

Community college students can become eligible for admission to UC by meeting specific requirements.

The vast majority of transfer students come to UC at the junior level from California community colleges. But there’s a way for sophomore students to gain admission, too.

Junior-Level Transfer

To be considered for UC admission as a junior, you must fulfill both of the following:

  1. Complete 60 semester (90 quarter) units of transferable college credit with a GPA of at least 2.4 (2.8 if you’re a nonresident). No more than 14 semester (21 quarter) units may be taken Pass/Not Pass.
  2. Complete the following course pattern requirements, earning a grade of “C” or better in each course:

Seven-Course Pattern

  • Two transferable college courses (3 semester or 4-5 quarter units each) in English composition
  • One transferable college course (3 semester or 4-5 quarter units) in mathematical concepts and quantitative reasoning;
  • Four transferable college courses (3 semester or 4-5 quarter units each) chosen from at least two of the following subject areas:
    • arts and humanities
    • social and behavioral sciences
    • physical and biological sciences

      Each course must be worth at least 3 semester units.

Lower-Division Transfer

While all UC campuses welcome a large pool of junior-level transfers, most admit only a limited number of lower-division transfers.

However, it can happen. Here’s how:

  • If you were eligible for admission to UC when you graduated from high school - meaning you satisfied the subject, examination and scholarship requirements or were identified by UC during your senior year as Eligible in the Local Context (ELC) and completed the subject and examination requirements in the senior year - you are eligible for transfer if you have a 2.0 GPA in your transferable college coursework (2.8 GPA for non-residents).
  • If you met the scholarship requirement in high school, but did not satisfy the 15-course subject requirement, you must take transferable college courses in the missing subjects, earn a C or better in each required course and have an overall 2.0 GPA in all transferable coursework to be eligible to transfer (a 2.8 GPA is required for nonresidents).

Minimum eligibility does not guarantee admission. Students need to consult with a counselor to ascertain realistic GPA requirements.

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Course Completion Deadlines

Most UC campuses require students to satisfy certain course requirements (the seven-course pattern) and 60 transferable units by the end of the spring term preceding fall enrollment. Students are strongly encouraged to complete their required courses as early as possible.

Nonresidents

The minimum admission requirements for nonresidents are very similar to those for residents. Students should consult with the Admissions Office at one of the university campuses for details. In all cases, however, nonresidents must have a grade point average of 2.8 or higher in all transferable college coursework.

Online Application Filing Periods

The priority filing period for fall admission is November 1-30 the year prior to transfer. The filing period for winter quarter (and for spring semester at UC Merced) is July 1-31. For all campuses except UC San Diego the spring quarter filing period is Oct. 1-31.

It is essential to check with the campus to ensure that it is accepting applications for winter or spring. Students should plan to submit their applications early in the filing period.

PLEASE NOTE: The UC campuses are limited in their ability to accommodate winter and spring transfers due to budget uncertainties. Students should not count on midyear transfer. Consult with a counselor for the best possible transfer plan.

Transcripts

The UC system requires students to complete the online Work in Progress (WIP) form no later than January 31 the year before transfer. The UC campus will inform students via email when to send official transcripts.

Planning to Transfer to UC

Complete information about UC admissions and program planning is available at the following site: www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/transfer

Most transfer students enter UC at the junior level-meaning they have completed transferable 60 semester units, general education and most, if not all, of their lower-division major prerequisites.

If you are considering transferring to the University of California from Irvine Valley College, it is important that you plan your coursework carefully. First, the courses you take should help you meet the minimum admission requirements for transfer students. In addition, you should select Irvine Valley College courses that prepare you for upper-division studies in your major or fulfill recommended general education requirements.

Major Preparation Requirements

Major preparation requirements specify the courses you must take during your first two years of college to prepare for advanced study in your major. They may be required as part of the major, be prerequisites for other courses that are required as part of the major, or be required to gain admission to the major.

Performance counts. Transfer applicants are evaluated, in part, on the basis of their performance in major preparation coursework. So it’s important-very important-that you investigate the requirements for your intended major as soon as possible. If your major requires mathematics and science, it is essential that you complete those prerequisites before you transfer. Lack of preparatory coursework may affect your admission to your major, particularly if there are many applicants vying for a limited number of spaces.

Start early. You should begin coursework in your major as soon as you have selected one. If you are applying for fall admission, the campus may require you to complete certain major preparation requirements by the end of the preceding spring term.

Ask for help. Investigate transfer preparation paths to find out how best to prepare for UC’s most popular majors. Check out the Exploring Majors feature at www.assist.org, which lists major preparation requirements for all UC programs. The lists are updated throughout the year, so check ASSIST periodically to ensure you have the most current information. The Irvine Valley College Counseling faculty can help advise you about the specific major preparation requirements for the program you select.

Knowing what the requirements are and planning your program at IVC will maximize your chances for admission to the UC campus and program of your choice. Meeting requirements in advance will give you more freedom when selecting courses once you enroll in the university. You may also be able to complete your undergraduate education within four years, without having to attend additional terms to meet requirements or take prerequisites.

The IVC Transfer Center can provide you with much of the information you need to start planning. UC representatives (and representatives from other four-year colleges and universities) visit the Transfer Center regularly to meet and advise prospective transfer applicants. They are available to give you up-to-date information about the availability of majors, impacted programs, coursework you need to take, and requirements that relate specifically to your circumstances.

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General Education Requirements

General education requirements are designed to give UC undergraduates a broad background in all major academic disciplines-natural sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, humanities and fine arts. The general education requirement- often called the breadth requirement-lists the specific courses you must take or number of credit hours you must earn in each discipline.

Requirements vary. Each school and college at every UC campus has its own general education requirement. With careful planning, you can meet many of the lower-division requirements before you transfer. You also have the option of completing the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) to satisfy the lower-division general education requirements at any UC campus.

The IGETC is a series of courses prospective transfer students attending California community colleges may complete to satisfy the lower-division breadth/general education requirements at both the University of California and the California State University. The University of California has developed an agreement with each California community college that specifies which of its courses may be applied to each category of the IGETC. (See here for further information.)

Following the IGETC general education pattern is generally preferred by most UC campuses for most majors. However, on some UC campuses, and for certain majors, IGETC is not accepted or even recommended, and following the native breadth pattern will benefit transfer students. Students are advised to see a counselor to choose the appropriate general education pattern.

Entry-Level Writing Requirement

You must satisfy the entry-level writing requirement to graduate in any program at UC. One way to meet this requirement is to complete a transferable college course of three semester (four quarter) units in English composition with a grade of “C” or better. Students who meet the UC basic requirements for minimal transfer eligibility, which include two transferable college courses in English composition (WR 1 and WR 2 at IVC), satisfy the entry-level writing requirement.

Additional Requirements

In addition to the general education requirement and their major preparation requirements, there are other requirements students must fulfill to receive their undergraduate degree from the University, such as the American History and Institutions Requirement. Other requirements vary according to the campus students attend, and their particular college or school and major. 

American History and Institutions Requirement

All undergraduate degree programs at UC require study in American History and Institutions. This requirement may be met through examination or enrollment in specific courses. Each campus decides how its students may meet the requirement.

If you satisfactorily completed a one-year course in US history or a half-year course in US history and a half-year course in American government while in high school, you have fulfilled this requirement for all UC campuses except UC Santa Barbara, which requires students to complete a college-level course. (At UCLA, you also must have earned a B average in these courses.) If you have satisfied Irvine Valley College’s history and institutions requirement (HIST 20  or HIST 21  and PS 1 ) you have also met the requirement at most UC campuses. It is strongly recommended that you complete this requirement before you transfer.

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Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG)

Six UC campuses-Davis, Irvine, Merced, Riverside, Santa Barbara, and Santa Cruz-offer guaranteed admission to California community college students who meet specific requirements.

Interested students must meet campus-specific requirements to qualify for a UC TAG. By participating in a TAG program, you can ensure your admission to a specific UC campus, some of which offer an early review of your academic records, early admission notification, and specific guidance on major preparation and general education coursework.

You can download a matrix of TAG program requirements at www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/transfer/guarantee.

Students should visit the Transfer Center or Counseling Center for information regarding specific criteria for each UC campus. September 1-30 one year prior to enrollment is the online application filing period for TAGs.

To pursue a TAG, you must:

  • Fill out an online TAG application during the submission period, September 1 to 30, and review it with your IVC counselor. (Download the TAG application at uctag.universityofcalifornia.edu.)
  • Once your TAG is submitted and approved, fulfill all remaining coursework and GPA requirements designated in your TAG agreement.
  • Apply for admission to UC during the appropriate filing period, November 1 to 30 (see www.universityofcalifornia.edu/apply). Students are strongly encouraged to consult with their IVC counselor prior to completing/submitting the TAG application.

Please note: Transfer students do not have to participate in TAG to be considered for admission. Non-TAG students must also apply for UC admission during the appropriate application filing period (see www.universityofcalifornia.edu/apply).

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