WOU launches partnership with Chemeketa

Western Oregon University announced on Monday that it recently established a streamlined path for students enrolled in Chemeketa Community College’s Bachelor of Applied Science program to access academic resources and coursework through WOU.

This new program begins Aug. 1, and it provides for Chemeketa students with a GPA of 3.25 or higher to apply for non-degree undergraduate status at the university. Admitted students can enroll in up to 15 credits of graduate coursework toward WOU’s Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership program during their final year as undergraduates.

Western officials tout the program as an integrated one that simultaneously facilitates the bachelor’s and master’s degree process.

“This partnership exemplifies our commitment to promoting student success and facilitating academic excellence,” said Amber Deets, director of Western’s graduate studies. “By providing students with enhanced opportunities for growth and development, we empower them to become future leaders in their respective fields.”

The announcement follows Chemeketa’s similar announcement this week of a partnership with Arizona State University .

“This work is the result of extensive collaborative efforts between faculty members from both Western Oregon University and Chemeketa Community College,” Western’s Provost Jose Coll said. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Chemeketa for their invaluable collaboration and support in bringing this initiative to fruition. Together, we eagerly anticipate the positive impact this partnership will have on nurturing the academic aspirations of our students and fostering a vibrant community of lifelong learners.”

Chemeketa officials see the partnership as especially beneficial to CTE students.

“This valuable collaboration gives our students an opportunity for a seamless pathway from a Career and Technical Education degree to a master’s degree,” said Chemeketa Community College’s Chief Workforce Innovation and Community Success Officer Holly Nelson.