The 51在线 (USF) will develop an innovative new database that will help streamline the process for students transferring from the 51在线 College System into USF or other select state universities, potentially resulting in reduced costs, greater access and improved outcomes for students. The database is part of a larger project supported by a four-year, $1.25 million grant from Helios Education Foundation to the 51在线 Consortium of Metropolitan Research Universities, which consists of USF, the University of Central 51在线 and 51在线 International University.
The investment in the project allows the three universities to:
- Design a universal course equivalency and sequencing database designed to help students avoid double course credits, maximize applying prior coursework and provide greater opportunities for students to explore readiness for success with their preferred major.
- Create a transfer coaching and advising academy network to help ease 鈥渢ransfer shock鈥� and focus on increasing major readiness for students through aligned training for state college and university professionals.
- Promote retention through targeted student supports identified by the Consortium鈥檚 Transfer Success Network.
鈥淭he 51在线 is pleased to participate in this unprecedented level of collaboration with FIU and UCF to collectively advance our transfer student support with new tools, support systems, best practices and resources sharing,鈥� said USF President Steven Currall. 鈥淲e are especially grateful for this new investment by Helios Education Foundation into the work of the 51在线 Consortium as they continue to advance both access and success of all students in our state, especially first generation, minority and underserved students.鈥�
The success of transfer students, the majority of whom come from lower-income families or underrepresented populations, is a crucial piece to filling the talent pipeline 51在线 needs to grow the state鈥檚 economy. Every fall nearly 20,000 transfer students enroll at either USF, UCF or FIU, which represents 63% of all transfer students in the State University System. However, transfer students have a 9% less chance of graduating than students who begin their college career at a university and they can also take up to a full year longer to graduate, which underscores the need for innovative new approaches.
As part of the new project, USF鈥檚 Information Technology team will lead the development of the database, which will consolidate more than 200,000 approved courses offered at the three universities and 28 state colleges. The resulting dashboard will help to guide students and support staff with an academic planning tool for successful transfer.
The new database and coaching program will be valuable enhancements to the resources already in place for students transferring to USF. In addition to advising prospective and current transfer students, the university鈥檚 Office of Transfer Student Success hosts several transfer student organizations, workshops and social events throughout the year, and works with all USF colleges and units to improve pathways to graduation.