Umpqua Community College (UCC) partners with universities and workforce organizations to help students take the next step in their education and career. Through these partnerships, students can earn bachelor’s degrees or industry-recognized credentials without leaving the local area. These programs offer a mix of online learning, in-person training, and real-world experience to prepare students for high-demand careers.

Medical Laboratory Science – In partnership with Idaho State University

Students can earn a bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science through a partnership between UCC and Idaho State University. Coursework is completed online with Idaho State, while hands-on clinical training takes place at local healthcare facilities. This program helps students prepare for careers as Medical Laboratory Scientists—critical members of the healthcare team who perform lab tests to help diagnose and treat illness.

👉 Learn more: umpqua.edu/medical-lab-scientist

Surgical Technologist Apprenticeship – In partnership with MedCerts, SOWIB, and HealthSTAR

This 12-month apprenticeship program combines on-the-job training with online coursework to prepare students for certification as surgical technologists. Apprentices stay in their local communities while gaining skills needed in hospitals and surgical centers across the state. Applications are accepted year-round from both employers and students.

👉 Learn more: umpqua.edu/academics/find-your-path/surgical-technologist

Grow Your Own Educator Program

UCC supports future educators through a “Grow Your Own” program that helps local educators prepare for teaching careers. This program offers personalized support and flexible pathways for students to earn teaching credentials, especially for those already working in early learning or education settings.

👉 Contact Kim Danielson, GYO Navigator: kim.danielson@umpqua.edu | 541-440-7842

Applied Business Management – In partnership with Lane Community College

Students with any associate degree from UCC can transfer to Lane Community College to earn a Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Business Management. This flexible program combines classroom learning with hands-on work experience to prepare students for leadership roles in business and public service.

👉 Contact: business@lanecc.edu
👉 Learn more: lanecc.edu/programs-academics/...

Bachelor of Arts in Social Work – In partnership with Idaho State University

Students can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work through UCC’s partnership with Idaho State University. This program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the national accrediting agency. This collaboration provides students with the opportunity to pursue a high-quality education in social work, preparing them for entry-level generalist practice in the field. The program's mission is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to enhance people's lives, empower individuals and communities, and promote human rights and social and economic justice.

👉 Learn more: umpqua.edu/social-work

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – In partnership with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)

UCC is part of the Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education (OCNE), a partnership between Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and nine community colleges across the state. This program uses a shared, competency-based curriculum designed to prepare students to meet the complex needs of today’s healthcare system.

Students in the program build skills in clinical judgment, critical thinking, evidence-based care, and teamwork with other healthcare professionals. The curriculum also focuses on caring relationships, supporting patients in managing both chronic and acute illnesses, providing end-of-life care, and developing leadership skills like teaching, delegation, and supervising caregivers.

The first five terms of UCC’s Nursing program are the same for both the associate and bachelor’s degree tracks. After completing the sixth term, students can earn an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) and become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Once they pass the exam, they have the option to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through OHSU by taking upper division nursing courses. UCC offers the required statistics course locally, but students will need to complete 15 credits of upper division non-nursing courses at another college or university.

This flexible pathway gives students a strong start in nursing while staying close to home, with the option to continue on to a bachelor’s degree.

👉 Learn more: umpqua.edu/nursing

Bachelor of Science in Leadership and Management – In partnership with Chemeketa Community College

Associate of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant – In partnership with Linn-Benton Community College

Students can begin their pathway to becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant by earning a transfer degree at UCC. Then, they transfer to Linn-Benton Community College to complete their AAS degree with classroom and clinical experience. Graduates are prepared to work in hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers.

👉 Learn more: umpqua.edu/occupational-therapy-assistant