OCCC, USAO announce innovative educational partnership
In a significant move toward advancing higher education in Oklahoma, Oklahoma City Community College, the fourth largest institution in the state, and the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma, a premier four-year liberal arts college, are excited to announce a partnership set to redefine the academic landscape in the state.
This partnership is a testament to the institutions' commitment to serving students and the broader Oklahoma community. The initiative will combine OCCC's extensive reach and USAO's specialized liberal arts curriculum to foster a comprehensive educational environment that provides students with seamless pathways as they progress from associate to bachelor’s degrees.
“We are thrilled to embark on this transformative partnership with OCCC, marking a pivotal moment in advancing higher education in Oklahoma,” said USAO President Kayla Hale. “Together, we are committed to redefining the educational experience for students, providing unparalleled opportunities that empower them to achieve their academic and professional goals.”
OCCC President Mautra Jones added, “Our collaboration with USAO marks a significant milestone in our commitment to student success and workforce development. By leveraging our resources and expertise, we are shaping an educational environment that meets the evolving needs of our communities and equips students with the skills to thrive in today's economy.”
Highlights of the partnership include:
Expanded course offerings: OCCC will host USAO faculty to offer 3000 and 4000 level courses on its campus, providing students a streamlined path to completing their bachelor's degrees.
Joint diplomas through reverse transfer: This innovative approach will enable students, particularly those close to completing their degrees, to earn their credentials more efficiently, enhancing their academic and professional prospects.
Accelerated bachelor's degree pathway: Emphasizing efforts to promote student achievement, the partnership introduces an innovative "two plus one" program that will enable students to attain their bachelor's degrees in just three years. This accelerated pathway is designed to maximize the value of credits earned during high school and associate programs, streamlining the journey to a bachelor's degree.
Focus on Workforce Development: Recognizing the evolving needs of the regional and national economy, the partnership will emphasize programs that align with industry demands, particularly in sectors like technology and healthcare.
Community Engagement and Support: The partnership is designed to extend its benefits beyond the campuses, engaging local industries, high schools and community organizations to foster a more educated and skilled workforce.
This collaboration is a beacon of innovation and cooperation in higher education, promising to deliver significant benefits to students, employers, and the community at large. By combining their strengths, OCCC and USAO are setting a new standard for academic partnerships, one that prioritizes student success, promotes academic achievement and workforce readiness.
About the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma
As Oklahoma’s liberal arts college, the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma provides a distinctive education in the liberal arts and sciences, supporting both its interdisciplinary core curriculum and major fields of study with superior teaching. Science & Arts fosters diversity of thought and practice to help students realize meaningful, purposeful and productive lives as global citizens in a rapidly-changing world. Learn more at usao.edu.
About Oklahoma City Community College
Since its inception in 1972, Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) has been the heartbeat of the metro, dedicated to empowering learners and strengthening communities. Serving more than 18,000 students, we are committed to producing leaders. “Student Success, Community Enrichment” is our mission, and we offer more than 87 degree and certificate programs that provide a foundation for further education or immediate career readiness. We remain dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, high-quality education that equips students to achieve personal and professional goals. OCCC is more than an institution; we are a community catalyst, fostering growth and success in our city, our workforce, and the lives of our students. Discover your potential at OCCC, where your future is our purpose. Learn more at occc.edu.