Portland Community College joins the Bearcat Pathway
Willamette University has added Portland Community College as the newest partner in its Bearcat Pathway transfer program, extending the initiative to current PCC students planning to transfer for the fall 2027 semester, willamette.edu reported.
Nationally, about 80 percent of community college students aspire to earn a bachelor’s degree, yet only 16 percent reach that goal within six years of starting college. The Bearcat Pathway aims to address those drop-off rates by providing clear academic plans, financial aid opportunities, comprehensive advising, and an integrated campus experience from day one.
Building on prior regional agreements
Willamette created the transfer program two years ago. Since then, the university has established similar pathways with some of the state’s largest community colleges, including Chemeketa Community College in 2024 and Clackamas Community College in 2025.
Transfer students frequently encounter hurdles when moving to a four-year institution, such as credit transfer complexities, unfamiliarity with using university systems, and limited access to resources. The partnership is designed to streamline that process and ensure that credits count toward a degree.
“We want students who know that Willamette is the right fit for them to have a clear understanding of how to get here, and provide the support they need along the way,” said Willamette University Dean of Undergraduate Admissions Sue Corner. “Transfer students bring a unique perspective with them and a rich set of experiences that add tremendous value to our academic community.”
University officials note that the program serves students who may not be ready to commit to a four-year university at the start of their post-secondary education, whether they are unsure about a field of study, hesitant to join a university environment, or exploring if college is right for them.
“This partnership with Willamette University gives PCC students another clear pathway to completing a bachelor’s degree,” said Bridget Jones, PCC’s Dean of Enrollment Management. “By simplifying the transfer process, we’re helping students build on their success at PCC and confidently take the next step toward their educational and career goals.”
