Eastern Oregon University and Blue Mountain Community College Establish Transfer Partnership

Eastern Oregon University and Blue Mountain Community College Establish Transfer Partnership

Eastern Oregon University and Blue Mountain Community College Establish Transfer Partnership

LA GRANDE, Ore. - Eastern Oregon University (EOU) and Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) are strengthening their historic connection to support the educational and professional goals of students in the region.

The Eastern Alliance partnership bridges the gap between associate and bachelor's degree programs for students in rural Oregon. By aligning degree requirements and providing dedicated transition advising, EOU and BMCC are reducing administrative barriers, directly supporting regional degree completion and expanding affordable access to higher education degrees across eastern Oregon.

"The Eastern Alliance is all about removing the obstacles that often stand in the way of a student's success," said Mark Browning, Ph.D., President of Blue Mountain Community College. "We are excited to continue developing strategic partnerships with EOU to open more doors for our students and strengthen the future of the communities we serve."

The two institutions finalized a memorandum of understanding in July to create the partnership and set clear academic pathways for students. The agreement establishes transition roadmaps for students earning associate degrees at BMCC to transfer directly into bachelor's degree programs at EOU-both on campus and online. Students will receive advising and pathway check sheets that identify coursework satisfying degree requirements, ensuring credits earned at the community college level integrate into their bachelor's degree program.

"This collaboration is a game-changer for our region," said Kelly A. Ryan, Ph.D., President of Eastern Oregon University. "By aligning the academic strengths of our schools and expanding on our long-term and successful relationship, we are building a clear, accessible roadmap for students to achieve their educational goals and support our regional economy."

The initiative also includes professional development for employees, offering tuition discounts for up to four eligible Blue Mountain Community College staff members each term to pursue degrees at Eastern Oregon University.

For more information on transfer pathways or to begin an application, visit the Eastern Alliance website at eou.edu/eastern-alliance.