Des Plaines, Ill. (March 12, 2026) - A new guaranteed admission partnership between Oakton College and the University of Iowa gives students a clear, streamlined path to earning a bachelor’s degree from a top public undergraduate business school.
Oakton students who’ve earned an associate of applied science (A.A.S.) in Management and Supervision can now enroll as third-year students in the Tippie College of Business.
“The agreement expands opportunities for Oakton students to continue their education by earning a bachelor’s degree at a nationally recognized business school,” said Alauna McGee, Ed.D., assistant vice president of Student Affairs and College Transition. “We express our deep gratitude to Dr. Charles Keene and Jennifer Timmons for partnering with us to bring this agreement to fruition.”
The University of Iowa is consistently a top-five out-of-state transfer destination for Oakton students, reflecting a long-standing academic alignment and student interest. The new agreement formalizes that connection and strengthens Oakton’s commitment to transfer success and student mobility.
“At the Tippie College of Business, we believe there is no single path to a business degree—only motivated students with big ambitions,” said Charles Keene, Ed.D., associate dean for Undergraduate Programs. “This guaranteed admission partnership with Oakton College reflects our commitment to being a destination for top business talent across the Midwest and affirms our shared values of access, excellence, and student success. Oakton graduates will have full exposure to Tippie’s future‑forward curriculum, strong industry connections, and research that drives innovation. We’re thrilled to officially welcome Oakton College to the Tippie community.”
The Tippie College of Business is nationally recognized for its undergraduate business education, experiential learning opportunities and strong job placement for graduates. Through this partnership, Oakton students gain access to advanced coursework, professional networks and a respected business degree that can accelerate their career ambitions.
Oakton College continues to expand transfer pathways with four-year institutions across the region and the nation, ensuring students have affordable, flexible options to begin their education locally and continue it at top-tier universities. To learn more, visit Oakton’s Transfer Partnership Agreements page.