Expanding Opportunities and Access

Seattle University and the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) have signed a partnership agreement that guarantees admission to Seattle University for LACCD students who meet eligibility requirements. It is the latest SU initiative to increase access to higher education.

“I’m delighted that Seattle University is partnering with LACCD,” says Seattle University President Eduardo Peñalver. “This relationship will open a range of new and exciting pathways for LACCD students seeking to complete their bachelor’s degree. We look forward to introducing LACCD students to the many educational, economic and cultural opportunities Seattle has to offer.”

LACCD Chancellor Francisco Rodriguez says, “This strategic partnership with Seattle University opens up a world of new educational possibilities for our LACCD students. Seattle University is a top-tier university with exceptional academic programs for our community college transfer students. We both share the mission to educate a diverse student population in an equitable and inclusive environment where our students can flourish. This memorandum of understanding represents more than just an agreement—it is a bridge to educate the next generation of leaders.”

LACCD students must complete an Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) or transfer pathway and be in good standing in the Fall or Spring term prior to their admission entry start at Seattle University.

The memorandum of understanding states that an LACCD student is eligible for guaranteed admission to Seattle University if they have completed 60 transferable semester units with at least a 3.0 grade point average. Half of the 60 units must be general education courses.

Eligible students must also complete the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC). Successful completion will clear SU’s lower division Core Curriculum requirements and guarantee junior standing.

“The partnership links two major urban areas and provides greater access to LACCD students interested in what Seattle University has to offer—high quality, personalized education in one of the most dynamic and innovative cities in the country,” explains Seattle University Provost Shane P. Martin.

Associate Provost and Dean of Admissions James Miller says, “We are thrilled to launch this partnership with LACCD. LACCD and Seattle University are both leaders in focusing on inclusive excellence. We are looking forward to exploring ways to innovate in partnership with LACCD to create new pathways for transfer students.”

The partnership with LACCD is the latest in SU’s efforts to expand higher education opportunities and build partnership with other institutions including:

• SU’s Redhawk Transfer Admissions Guarantee for Washington state community college students.
• The Seattle University Promise guarantee.
• A memorandum of understanding with four colleges in India to expand SU’s international partnerships.