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Pathway Programs

Spend two years at a community college, then transfer to a university. Willamette’s transfer program offers a seamless and easy experience to earn your four-year degree.

At Willamette, we know how challenging the transfer process can be. That's why we've created pathway programs so students can seamlessly transfer from a community college to our university. Our partnerships with local community colleges offer an easy way for community college students to earn their Bachelor's degree.

Transfer To Willamette University

Through our Bearcat pathway transfer program, community college students can earn a four-year degree seamlessly. Willamette does not require an application fee, test scores, or an interview. Pathway program students must submit an initial application to participate in the program, and will later submit a transfer application along with their official transcripts. Letters of recommendation are not required, but are recommended. Willamette currently offers transfer articulation agreements with Chemeketa Community College, and additional Bearcat Pathway programs are in the works.

Two students studying in Ford Hall.
Why Choose A Pathway Program?

Experience a seamless transfer journey through our Bearcat Pathway. Learn more about which credits transfer, what general education credits matter, and even what classes you need to take.

Our program provides a clear academic roadmap for credit transfer. Learn how to complete your associate’s degree in two years, and then your bachelor’s degree at Willamette in two years. Plus, you'll receive transfer advising support through both institutions.

Each of our pathway programs offers a way to earn your four-year degree without the hassle. Review specific community college details, and their available degree programs to learn more about the requirements and available paths.

Ford Hall at Willamette University.
Turn Your Two Years At Community College Into A Bachelor's Degree

It's important to find a school that matches your needs and interests. Willamette offers in-person classes that offer a sense of community. We're a small school with a lot of resources to help connect you with employers nearby.

Our admissions team can help discuss program specifics, and answer questions about the Bearcat Pathways Program. You can look into each school we partner with to find what courses to take and how to advance your degree by attending a local community college.

Student pointing to a white board.
Transfer Scholarships and Financial Aid

Be sure to apply for financial aid. We offer exclusive transfer student scholarships and generous financial aid packages to make a private university affordable.

We automatically consider students for a renewable merit scholarship that ranges from $26,000 to $34,000 (for the Fall '25/Spring '26 academic year). Students in the Bearcat Pathway Program who meet the requirements will also earn a partnership grant. Students can also apply for financial aid and other transfer scholarships.

Students frolicking on the quad.
Transfer Student Support and Resources

We are a small school with extensive resources. Utilize career development services, visit the writing center, or join our tutoring program while at Willamette.

We also offer a variety of student organizations on campus, including ones that focus on nontraditional student experiences.

Drone shot of Salem campus.

Learn More About Transferring From Community College To A University

Do you have questions about college credits? Curious if a specific course counts towards your degree? Through the Bearcat Pathways programs, students have the support of both institutions. The Willamette admissions team will help answer all your questions and help you prepare!

For all transfer questions, please reach out to Ryann Wegrzyn, Senior Associate Director of Transfer Admissions, through email or by phone at 503-370-6543. We look forward to welcoming you on campus as a Bearcat!

Priority Deadlines

Applications can be submitted for the Bearcat Pathway program any time. Deadlines for submitting a Transfer Application:

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2
  • Nov. 1
    Semester starting in January
  • Apr. 15
    Semester starting in August
    (rolling admission throughout the summer as space permits)

Willamette University

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