Bothell/Kenmore, Wash. — In an effort to increase opportunities for students seeking baccalaureate degrees in the natural health arts and sciences, the presidents of Bastyr University and Cascadia Community College today announced an agreement that will help propel students through the higher education pipeline in the form of smoother transfers between the two schools.
"This is a perfect example of how educational institutions can work together to expand opportunities and services for their students," says Eric Murray, PhD, president of Cascadia Community College. "In this case, we are making it possible for community college students who matriculate with a two-year degree at Cascadia and meet Bastyr University's requirements to transfer to one of the most highly respected natural medicine universities in the world."
The signed agreement opens up a whole new pathway for students who are interested in pursuing a career in this region's growing natural health industry.
According to Bastyr University President Daniel K. Church, PhD: "It is critical, especially as cuts are being made to student loan and academic programs, that we build partnerships resulting in helping more students earn bachelor's degrees. This agreement opens access to a whole new pool of highly motivated students while simultaneously simplifying the transfer process."
The agreement allows Cascadia students who complete the prescribed coursework and receive an Associate in Integrated Studies degree to transfer directly to Bastyr University, where they can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Health Psychology, Herbal Sciences, Exercise Science and Wellness, Integrated Human Biology or Nutrition. Alternately, students who need to complete specific courses to be eligible for their junior year at Bastyr University will be able to transfer after completing those courses at Cascadia.
About Cascadia Community College
Cascadia Community College consistently transfers more than 70 percent of its students to four-year programs. It is nationally recognized for its integrated teaching and learning model, as well as for its programs in information technologies, environmental technologies, math and sciences. For additional information about Cascadia Community College, visit Cascadia.edu.
About Bastyr University
Bastyr University, located near Seattle, Washington, is internationally recognized as a pioneer in natural medicine. As the largest accredited university for natural health arts and sciences in the U.S., Bastyr offers more than 17 degree and certificate programs in fields such as naturopathic medicine, acupuncture & Oriental medicine, and whole-food nutrition. Founded in 1978, the University now includes a leading-edge research facility (the Bastyr University Research Institute) and outstanding clinical training at Bastyr Center for Natural Health. The University’s second campus, Bastyr University California, opened in San Diego, California, in fall 2012, becoming the state’s first and only accredited school of naturopathic medicine.