Research shows that while 80% of community college students intend to earn a bachelor’s degree, only 25% transfer to a four-year college within five years — and just 17% earn a bachelor’s degree within six years of transferring.
This work helps more students — especially those in rural and underserved communities — successfully complete their education and contribute to the state’s workforce.
One of the biggest barriers to success is that students often can’t transfer most of their credits. Fewer than 60% of community college students manage to do so. Those who transfer most of their credits are 2½ times more likely to complete a bachelor’s degree. But the process can be confusing and hard to navigate. Many students feel overwhelmed and don’t have the support they need to stay on track.
Open Campus, a statewide program of the Oregon State University Extension Service, helps students overcome these challenges. Open Campus coordinators work directly on community college campuses to support students through the transfer process and help them reach their degree goals.
Some coordinators serve in roles co-funded with local community colleges. They build strong relationships with faculty and students and provide one-on-one guidance at campus events or scheduled meetings. They tailor their support to each student’s needs — whether it’s help with paperwork, transfer planning or adjusting to a new campus.
Coordinators collaborate with college and university advisors, admissions offices, financial aid staff, scholarship programs and credit articulation teams to connect students with key resources. They help students complete applications and forms, prepare for orientation, and address additional challenges such as transportation or housing. They also support students in dual enrollment programs and offer tips for making the most of advisor meetings and campus tours.
Having someone available to offer step-by-step guidance makes a difference. Many students have said they felt more confident and informed thanks to the support they received.
At Portland Community College’s Rock Creek Campus, more than 280 students have worked with Open Campus to overcome barriers to transfer and degree completion. The program’s continued support — even after a student has transferred — helps ease the transition to university life.
One student who transferred to Oregon State with help from Open Campus shared this message of appreciation: “I would like to send you my sincerest thanks and gratitude for all of your help in making this possible for me. While it has been a roller coaster trying to get through all of the people, meetings, emails and planning, I have finally been able to get things rolling smoothly at OSU. This is definitely attributed to your perseverance to get me support. Again, I thank you very much for the efforts you've put in for me.”
This work helps more students — especially those in rural and underserved communities — successfully complete their education and contribute to the state’s workforce. By improving access to four-year degrees, Open Campus supports stronger communities and a more equitable future for Oregon.