AMES &#8212 According to a study by ISU researchers, many Iowa community college graduates are opting to transfer out of the state to complete four-year degrees.

Although researchers found that 1,220 associate degree holders went on to Iowa public universities in 2003, 392 graduates left the state to attend four-year colleges.

“The loss of in-state students could translate into a loss of revenue for schools,” said Frankie Santos Laanan, an associate professor of educational leadership and policy studies.

Laanan said to keep enrollment up, universities may want to evaluate the ease at which community college students transfer credits.

“Are we truly creating a seamless transition?” Laanan asked.

“The question is, can they get a four-year degree at a regents [institution] in a timely fashion … that doesn’t break the bank?”

The study followed the many career paths taken by Iowa community college students who received associate’s degrees in 2002.