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EUGENE, Ore. - Oregon State University and Lane Community College leaders signed an agreement today (Thursday, March 9), creating a Degree Partnership Program allowing students to take classes and easily shift their educational programs from one institution to the other.

"OSU is pleased to sign this partnership agreement with Lane Community College," said OSU President Ed Ray. "It is a clear reflection of our joint commitment to student success in higher education. The Degree Partnership Programs helps students make a seamless transition between institutions and encourages them to continue with their education.

"This is a significant part of the seamless student experience we are creating with community colleges throughout the state."

The agreement with Lane Community College seals OSU's 12th partnership with the state's 17 community colleges. Originally called the "Dual Enrollment Program," these partnerships enable students to attend classes concurrently at OSU and partner community colleges, combine credits for financial aid and have the option of using facilities and services at partner campuses. Classes can be taken on-site at OSU and with online courses offered though the OSU Extended Campus.

"While other Oregon universities offer similar programs, OSU's program is generally recognized as the leader in meeting student needs," said Bob Bontrager, OSU director of Partnership Programs. "With more than 1,500 students currently enrolled, OSU's program is significantly larger than other programs.

"We anticipate partnering with the remaining six Oregon community colleges by the end of the year," Bontrager added. "We are also initiating conversations with community colleges in California, Washington and Hawaii."

Under the agreements, students pay regular tuition and fees at the different institutions, but only a single application fee. To participate they must meet OSU enrollment standards and have the necessary college preparatory coursework. Transfer students may also qualify for the program.

The idea is to take some of the bureaucracy and red tape out of getting a college degree, Bontrager said, and allow students to focus on their studies and career aspirations.

The program has enrolled more than 4,000 students since 1998, with more than 1,000 completing baccalaureate degrees.

Partners include Blue Mountain Community College, Central Oregon Community College, Chemeketa Community College, Columbia Gorge Community College, Linn-Benton Community College, Mt. Hood Community College, Oregon Coast Community College, Portland Community College, Tillamook Bay Community College, Southwestern Oregon Community College and Umpqua Community College.

For information about the Degree Partnership Program, visit the Web site at http://oregonstate.edu/partnerships, or call 541-737-4088.