General Requirements for All Majors

Catalog Year 2025-2027

Based on Associate of Arts/Associate of Science

Roanoke College uses a unit-credit system. Courses carrying 3-4 credits at other colleges transfer to Roanoke as 1 unit: 33.5 units are needed for graduation.

Transfer Guidance

Guaranteed Admission Agreement Requirements

• Students with a minimum 2.5 GPA in transferable courses from a Virginia Community College are guaranteed admission to Roanoke College and to all major programs at the college. Students must be in good standing with their prior institution for both academics and conduct. Note that Students with GPAs 2.2–2.5 are still encouraged to apply; individual cases are always reviewed.

• Students may consider transfer prior to completion of all requirements shown as “Complete at Community College.” Those courses can be added to those completed at Roanoke College if desired and reverse transferred back to VCCS to complete the Associate Degree, adding flexibility and greater access to internships.

Important Links & Dates:

• Transfer Info, Application & Financial Aid Information: www.roanoke.edu/transfer 

• Deposit: By March 1 to register for Fall courses with continuing students and get the best course and residence hall selection (for residential students).

• Admission Application: By May 15 for Fall starts at www.roanoke.edu/transfer . Later applications may be considered. By November 15 for Spring starts.

• FAFSA – Free Application for Federal Student Aid: For highest aid, submit by March 1. https://studentaid.gov 

What Should I Consider When Selecting Courses?

• Take a balance of general education and introductory courses in a potential major. You should find a field you would like to major in while completing your Associate’s degree; the Bachelor’s will allow you to deepen your knowledge and skills.

• Take language at community college if you are not already proficient in a non-English language. Roanoke College requires World Language through the 201 level (3 semesters) for graduation. Placement based upon proficiency can reduce this; you may also fulfill the requirement at VCCS and transfer the required courses to Roanoke College. The language requirement is waived for native speakers of languages other than English (a campus test is required). ASL is accepted.

• Completing one or two physical activity courses at VCCS will count toward either HHP 160, an HHP Activity Course, or both at Roanoke College (graduation requirement).

• To graduate from Roanoke College in two years, plan to take your Intensive Learning (IL/May Term) requirement the first May after you start at Roanoke College.

• At least 17.5 units of coursework must be completed at Roanoke College; at least half of the units for the major must be completed at Roanoke College.

• See transfer guides for specific majors you are considering for more details; consider a second major, minors, or concentrations as well.

• To take advantage of study away, early internships, or other special opportunities, complete as close to half of your intended major at VCCS and talk to your Roanoke College advisor early about these opportunities.

Which Majors Will Be Available to Me Through This GAA?

• All majors are available to transfer students using this GAA. If you are considering majors in natural science, engineering, education, mathematics, business, or other quantitative fields, be sure to take prerequisite courses and check out their transfer guides.

• Depending on coursework taken prior to Roanoke College, some majors may require more than four semesters to complete. Talk with a counselor or advisor at Roanoke College.

• Visit www.roanoke.edu/transfer and use “Transfer Connect” to schedule a virtual appointment to ask any questions, or contact us using the info at the bottom of that page.

What Is the Impact on My Degree of Work I Have Already Completed?

• Associate Transfer Degree Completion: Not required, but good academic preparation.

• Catalog Year: Upon enrollment, you may choose to follow either Roanoke College’s most recent catalog or any catalog from the two years prior.

• Dual Enrollment – Completion of Associate Degree in HS: Dual enrollment courses transfer to Roanoke College with a grade of C or higher.

• Credit for Prior Learning: All prior work must be on a transcript from an accredited institution.

Is This College Right For Me?

• At Roanoke College, we have small classes and one-on-one advising with faculty members in your field of study. You will get to know all your instructors and be part of a close-knit student body.

• You may choose to commute or live on campus. We have excellent academic support services, career services, clubs and activities. About 17% of transfer students play Division III sports.

• Most classes are scheduled from 8–5. Most classes are in-person; some regular semester courses and almost all summer courses are taught online.

• Roanoke College has over 50 majors, plus a wide variety of minors and concentrations so that you can find a combination that fits your interests.

Did You Know That…

• Completing your Associate Degree post-high school satisfies all lower division general education requirements and increases the chance of completing your bachelor’s degree?

• Exceeding 3 years or 90 credits at your community college means you may have exhausted your financial aid at that college and limited your future financial aid at any four-year school?

Program Successes & Highlights

• We have a strong alumni network and the Center for Purpose, Life, and Career Explorations (PLACE) and excellent study away options. Meet with your advisor to help you plan.

What Are My Chances for Getting Accepted?

• More than 60% of transfer applicants are accepted.

Do More With Your Degree!

• We make it easy for you to double major and complete internships. Your IL (May Term) course may include domestic or international travel if you choose.

Other Than Classes, Are There Other Program Requirements?

• There are no additional program requirements outside of coursework.