At Occidental, you're not limited to on-campus classes—through unique exchange programs and cooperative arrangements with institutions like Caltech, Columbia University, and Art Center, you can expand your academic experience.
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
As a full-time Oxy student, you can take courses at nearby in applied science, astronomy, engineering or other fields not taught here. While the program is not open to first-year students, you receive credit for all approved courses taken. No additional tuition payments are required.
Qualified students also can take advantage of the 3-2 Combined Plan in Liberal Arts and Engineering. This program comprises three years of study at Oxy followed by two years at Caltech or Columbia University, resulting in a BA in the Combined Plan from Oxy and a BS in a selected field of engineering from Caltech or Columbia.
Art Center College of Design
Oxy students can take approved courses at the in Pasadena, one of the country’s top-ranked art schools. The program is principally designed for students majoring in Art & Art History and Media Arts & Culture, but is open to all students, excluding first-year students. Oxy students receive course credit. No additional tuition payments are required. This opportunity is exclusively available for the fall and spring semesters; summer courses are not covered. Learn more about registration instructions, policies, and available courses.
Columbia University
With a competitive GPA and LSAT scores, may admit you upon completion of your junior year at Oxy into its Accelerated Interdisciplinary Program in Legal Education. Admittance to the program would enable you to earn your AB from Occidental and a JD from Columbia in six years.
The 3-2 Combined Plan in Liberal Arts and Engineering comprises three years of study at Oxy followed by two years at Caltech or Columbia University, resulting in a BA in the Combined Plan from Oxy and a BS in a selected field of engineering from Caltech or Columbia.
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Occidental students who aspire to become physical therapists will be guaranteed an interview and have priority consideration in the admissions process to the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at (MCPHS), Worcester campus. Applicants must complete the DPT pathway prerequisites, fill out an intent to apply form before Oct 15 of their senior year, and apply to MCPHS through PTCAS.
Keck Graduate Institute
If you're interested in biotechnology, become a biochemistry major and maintain a 3.2 GPA in the necessary courses, you'll be guaranteed admission to the Keck master's in bioscience program. The is part of the Claremont Colleges.
Occidental–St Andrews 4+1 Program
Occidental College has partnered with the University of St Andrews—one of the most highly regarded universities in the United Kingdom—to create a unique global pathway to graduate study. Through this 4+1 program, students can earn their bachelor’s degree at Oxy and complete a master’s degree in Scotland in just one additional year. The program connects your undergraduate experience to a globally recognized institution, offering both academic advancement and meaningful international exposure. With access to a wide range of master’s programs and dedicated support throughout the process, students can confidently plan their next step on a global stage. Discover how this opportunity can expand your academic journey and open doors around the world.