MISSION VIEJO, Calif. — The South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD), including Saddleback College and Irvine Valley College, officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with National University during a campus event held today at Saddleback College.
The signing ceremony, brought together district leadership, faculty, staff, students, and representatives from National University to celebrate a partnership focused on expanding access to affordable, high-quality bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree opportunities.
“This partnership represents what is possible when institutions come together with a shared commitment to student success,” said Dr. Julianna M. Asperin Barnes, Chancellor of SOCCCD. “We are creating clear, affordable pathways that empower our students to continue their educational journeys and achieve their goals.”
Under the agreement, students transferring from Saddleback College and Irvine Valley College to National University will benefit from significant tuition savings, including:
- Up to 46% tuition reduction for Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) completers
- 25% tuition reduction for AA and AS degree earners
- 15% tuition reduction for Saddleback College alumni
- Tuition discounts for SOCCCD employees pursuing undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs
In addition to financial support, the partnership provides students with enhanced academic advising, transfer guidance, and access to support services to ensure a seamless transition between institutions.
The event featured remarks from Dr. Barnes and National University leadership, as well as a student perspective from Desiree Ortiz, a current National University student and SOCCCD employee, who shared firsthand the impact of accessible transfer pathways.
The formal signing of the agreement by institutional leaders marked a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration between the institutions and reinforcing a shared commitment to workforce development and educational attainment in the region.
This partnership will remain in effect for five years, with both institutions committed to ongoing collaboration, annual evaluation, and continuous improvement to maximize student outcomes.
Contact:
Dr. Letitia Clark, DPA
Chief Communications Officer
South Orange County Community College District
949.582.4920
About South Orange County Community College District
The South Orange County Community College District serves more than 60,000 students annually through Saddleback College, Irvine Valley College, and the Advanced Technology & Education Park (ATEP), offering high-quality education and workforce training programs.
About National University
National University is a nonprofit, regionally accredited institution dedicated to providing accessible, flexible higher education opportunities to students and working professionals.