College Start Pathways

The College Start program offers motivated students the opportunity to earn up to 13 college credits in 10 months or less. In addition to credits, students gain the confidence and skills needed to be a successful college student. Students are able to work anywhere, anytime while earning credits to apply to a future degree. 

Instead of majors, the College Start program offers pathways. Students may select from four different “degree pathways” to tailor their educational experience and accumulate credits relevant to their interests. Pathways include Business, Healthcare, IT, and General Education. Here is a closer look at each pathway: 

Business Degree Path

Great for students seeking careers or degrees in Business Administration or Business Management, the Business Path introduces the core classes of most business degrees. Students who are unsure whether a business degree is the best fit could find clarity by taking these courses. Courses include: 

• Intro to Business 
• English Composition I 
• Microeconomics 
• Accounting

Health Degree Path

Interested in healthcare or nursing but don’t have prior college experience? Then you can start with the Health Degree Path! These courses lay the foundation for most degrees in Healthcare Administration or Health Science degrees. Students without prior experience can gain the skills necessary to begin a degree in the healthcare field. Courses include: 

• Human Biology
• English Composition I
• College Algebra
• Intro to Psychology 

IT/Tech Degree Path 

The IT/Tech Degree Path provides foundation courses for degrees in Information Technology, Computer Science, or any similar tech program. Learning business, math, and IT skills prepare students for future degrees in those fields. Courses include: 

• Intro to IT
• English Composition I
• College Algebra
• Intro to Business 

General Education Path 

The General Education path is suitable for students who are unsure of their future degrees. Courses range from Psychology to English. The wide variety of courses prepares students for a wide variety of degrees. If none of the other pathways are a fit, the General Education Pathway is the best place to start. Courses Include: 

• Intro to Psychology
• Intro to Business
• English Composition I 
• College Algebra 

How to Pick a Pathway

• Begin a College Start application on the Guild website
• Select the Pathway best aligned to future degree interest
• Unsure of the best fit? Contact a coach and we're happy to help!
• If you enroll and decide to change your pathway, you can just reach out to your Guild Student Success Coach and they'll be able to assist!

Article written by Billie Shuley, Education Coach