National University, mainly an online school in California, has just introduced a transfer pathway program with the California Community College (CCC) system, which is the largest two-year college system in the U.S. This new initiative aims to help more students earn their bachelor’s degrees, building on existing pathways with the California State University and University of California systems.
Currently, around 75% of CCC students plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree. However, a 2025 report from the Public Policy Institute of California reveals that just 16% of these students actually achieve that goal, compared to an impressive 72% at UC or CSU campuses. This partnership is part of a broader plan to increase graduation rates and support nontraditional learners, like working parents and veterans.
Mark Milliron, president of National University, emphasizes the importance of flexibility in education. He believes this partnership recognizes the diverse needs of students. “If you need flexible learning, we’re here for you,” he mentioned in an interview with Inside Higher Ed.
This issue isn’t limited to California; across the nation, many community college students struggle to transition to four-year institutions. John Fink, a senior researcher at the Community College Research Center at Columbia University, notes that while partnerships like this are becoming more common, their effectiveness can vary significantly.
Fink points out that some agreements merely symbolize a partnership, while others provide real financial support and resources for students. Successful partnerships usually involve thorough planning, ensuring that students have a clear pathway from community college to a bachelor’s degree.
NU’s agreement guarantees that students graduating with an associate degree for transfer from CCC will automatically be accepted at National University, along with a 25% tuition discount. All previously earned credits will also be honored. However, studies indicate that students transferring to private online institutions face more challenges than those moving to public universities. Fink argues that online schools can still improve their roles in higher education by investing in support services and resources tailored for working adults.
According to research from the RP Group, a nonprofit focused on California community colleges, expanding transfer options can be hugely beneficial. The CCC system enrolls about two million students, far exceeding the capacities of both state university systems. Online programs especially help those in rural areas with limited access to campuses.
Alyssa Nguyen, senior director of the RP Group, emphasizes that many students want to transfer but are often restricted by their circumstances. Online options can be a game-changer for those who cannot easily relocate. Yet, Nguyen stresses the importance of providing strong support services once students transfer, stating, “Without equal access to resources, we may continue to see gaps in completion rates.”
This partnership highlights a significant step towards improving student outcomes at community colleges and shows promise in addressing long-standing challenges in higher education.
For more details about the California Community College system and its initiatives, check their plan here.
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