One Step Closer
The One Step Closer (OSC) program is designed to support students on their journey to the University of Memphis (UofM) by offering two distinct pathways. Whether you're currently enrolled at a community college or were recently denied admission to UofM, OSC provides a structured, supportive bridge that leads to gaining admission to the UofM. This semester-long program will provide you with the opportunity to enroll in a non-credit online course at the UofM while working directly with our transfer admissions team to ensure that you remain on track to start your journey at the UofM.
Why Participate?
As a participant in the One Step Closer program, students will receive the following benefits:
- Guaranteed Admission to the UofM after successful completion of the OSC program
- Waived application fee to the UofM
- Pre-enrollment counseling by our transfer admissions team
- Priority scholarship consideration
- Access to UofM facilities and services
- A UofM tiger ID card
Who is Eligible:
Current Students Enrolled at a Local Community College
Students who are currently enrolled and in good academic standing at one of our partner community colleges listed below are eligible to participate in the OSC program. If you do not live near one of these institutions, you are encouraged to complete a semester or two at your local community college and earn college-level credit. You can still participate in our One Step Closer program while enrolled at that institution.
- Dyersburg State Community College
- Jackson State Community College
- Northwest Mississippi Community College
- Southwest Tennessee Community College
How to Participate:
- Apply to the OSC Program via the OSC Application Form.
- Enroll at your community college and maintain good academic standing. (You will need to provide the university confirmation that you are enrolled)
- Complete the OSC online course during the semester. (While you are attending a community college)
- Engage with UofM advisors for transfer planning.
- Transfer to UofM when ready using a simplified application process.
Alternative Pathways Applicant
Shelby County Residents
High school graduates who reside in Shelby County and were not admitted to the University of Memphis for the Summer or Fall semester are automatically considered for the One Step Closer (OSC) program. As part of this opportunity, these students will be directly admitted to our local partner, Southwest Tennessee Community College, to begin their college journey—without needing to submit a separate application.
How to Participate
- Watch for an email from UofM about the OSC opportunity.
- Do nothing if you wish to participate — your information will be shared with Southwest Tennessee Community College unless you opt out.
- Receive your acceptance letter to Southwest Tennessess Community College
- Enroll and maintain good academic standing at Southwest for 1-2 semesters. (Earn at least 15 transferrable hours and earn a 2.5 gpa)
- Complete the OSC online course during the semester.
- Engage with UofM advisors for transfer planning.
- Transfer to UofM when ready using a simplified application process.
Non-Shelby County Residents
High school graduates who do not reside in Shelby County and were not admitted to the University of Memphis for the Summer or Fall semesters are also welcomed to participate in OSC. To participate, submit a OSC Application and enroll in a local community college in your area. Participants will complete the same steps as Current Students Enrolled at a Local Community College.
For more information, please contact us at onestepcloser@memphis.edu or 901-678-2617.