To the Fullest Degree: COCC and OSU-Cascades Partnership Streamlines Bachelor’s Path
An academic collaboration between Central Oregon Community College (COCC) and Oregon State University-Cascades (OSU-Cascades) is designed to optimize the path for students seeking a bachelor’s degree. The Degree Partnership Program (DPP) offers students access, affordability, and opportunities as they progress toward their academic goals.
The connection between COCC and OSU-Cascades dates back to 2001, when OSU-Cascades first established a presence within a COCC building. Students from both institutions shared classes and a campus environment. Even after OSU-Cascades opened its own campus in 2016, located two miles south of COCC, the partnership continued to strengthen.
How the Degree Partnership Program Works
The DPP allows students to apply through OSU-Cascades and opt-in to the program. Students can register for courses at both COCC and OSU-Cascades, benefiting from COCC’s wider range of class times and schedules. Alternatively, students can begin their studies at COCC and then transition to OSU-Cascades for their final two years.
A key advantage of the DPP is cost savings. Tuition rates are lower at COCC, and both institutions offer financial aid options, making a bachelor’s degree more attainable. As of March 2026, 255 students are enrolled in the DPP, representing a 33.5% increase from the previous year.
Student Experiences
Emily Schwertfeger, a psychology major, appreciates the smooth transition the DPP provided. “I enjoy the DPP program given that overall it was a smooth transition from COCC to OSU, as well as being a student at both schools,” she says. She is currently taking classes at both institutions although living in Wickup Residence Hall.
Angela Ogden, a biology major, found the DPP allowed her to continue her education without losing momentum. She has received a COCC Foundation scholarship, applied specifically to her COCC classes. “The flexibility has been the biggest benefit for me,” she notes, having taken classes at both COCC and OSU-Cascades’ Ecampus. Ogden aims to pursue biomedical engineering with a focus on neurosciences.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
The COCC Foundation currently offers scholarships worth $5,250. The spring term admissions deadline for COCC is March 20.