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 have announced an agreement that will help to 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, president of Cascadia Community College, in a press release. “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 the President of Bastyr University Daniel K. Church in a press release, “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’s in health psychology, herbal sciences, exercise science and wellness, integrated human biology or nutrition. Alternately, students who need to complete specific courses in order to be eligible for their junior year at Bastyr University will be able to transfer after completing those courses at Cascadia.