News Releases

Aug. 4, 2004

Antioch University Helps Put Degree Within Reach of Community College Transfer Students
Private university strives to close the gap now widened as a result of public university enrollment pressures

Seattle — Last week’s news about enrollment pressures at public university and state college campuses throughout Washington state has prompted Antioch University Seattle to reach out to hundreds of community college transfer students now investigating other options. Today, the private university announced it would help pursue financial aid for any transfer students wanting to pursue a degree at Antioch. The institution also announced its continuing work to negotiate direct transfer agreements with community and technical college campuses, which allow students who complete associate degrees at two-year colleges to transfer with full academic credit to Antioch’s completion program.

“We need to find a solution for hundreds of transfer students across our state as the problem is only expected to become worse with college enrollment expected to peak in a few years,” said Pamela Smith-Mentz, director of enrollment services at Antioch University Seattle. “Private institutions have just as great of a responsibility to our community to be part of the solution. At Antioch, we’re looking at a range of ways we can respond to the demand — either by minimizing cost concerns, accommodating part-time students and flexible class schedules, or crediting college-level learning from work and life experiences. These also are the qualities that have made the Antioch experience what it is, and they’re all the more important now.”

Antioch University launched its B.A. completion program in liberal studies more than 25 years ago. By focusing on transfer students, the university has played a vital role in the community by helping them achieve their baccalaureate degree. Antioch, known for its unique blending of workplace and classroom learning, also has received accolades for fostering greater community activism, social justice, and organizational change by incorporating community projects within its programming.

"The process for applying was refreshing and exciting. People at Antioch were really open and it was obvious I could manage my educational future from the start,” said Christine Wheeler-Sinclair, who will graduate from the B.A. program in December. She transferred more than 50 credits tied to community college, technical college and military classes.

About Antioch University Seattle
Antioch University Seattle addresses what working adults want with convenient classes, a downtown Seattle location, and opportunities for independent study. Most academic programs feature small, discussion-oriented classes and complement students’ personal lives and careers. People interested in exploring an Antioch program can visit the website at www.antiochseattle.edu for more information, or call 206-268-4202 or toll-free (888) 268-4477.