<p>The principal reason for two years at a CC followed by two at a state university is to save money, not to enhance educational opportunities.</p>
<p>For the research-oriented student whose family can afford it, I think 4 years at the same school – one where research opportunities are available – is the best choice. Students who become involved in research often get to know about the research programs in their major department and become acquainted with specific professors well before junior year. Transfer students may be at a disadvantage in this regard. </p>
<p>On the other hand, if the goal is access to advanced (including graduate) courses rather than research opportunities, transfer to a major university after two years at an LAC might be a good idea. The LAC is likely to have enough courses in the student’s major to meet even a very advanced student’s needs during the first two years, but the university will offer more for the final two years.</p>