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Pierce College District

Lakewood, WA

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Quick Facts

1967
Founded
Public community college district
Type
4,487
Total Students
$5K
Tuition (In-State)
$5K
Tuition (Out-State)
$10K
Avg Net Price
31%
Graduation Rate
6-year
Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Pierce College District

Pierce College District offers a dynamic, growing path to higher education across multiple campuses.

Pierce College District stands as a beacon of accessible higher education in Washington, serving as a vital public community college district. What began as a single institution has blossomed into a comprehensive network, known for its dedication to community growth and student success. Its journey from humble beginnings to a multi-campus powerhouse illustrates a continuous commitment to expanding educational opportunities for prospective students and their families.

The history of Pierce College is one of remarkable evolution and strategic expansion. Established in 1967 as Clover Park Community College, it quickly found its footing, evolving into Fort Steilacoom Community College with the establishment of its permanent 140-acre campus. This foundational step set the stage for its most significant expansion in 1986, when it broadened its reach to include a second location in Puyallup, officially becoming Pierce College. This growth trajectory continued, solidifying its role as a key educational provider in the region.

Today, Pierce College District offers a robust student experience across its Fort Steilacoom and continuously expanding Puyallup campuses. While specific academic programs are not detailed, the investment in modern facilities like the Health Education Center and the Arts and Allied Health Building at the Puyallup campus signals a diverse and forward-thinking academic environment. These facilities, alongside expanding library and education centers, ensure that students have access to state-of-the-art resources and learning spaces, preparing them for a wide array of career paths and further education. The district's recognition as Washington's 34th community college in 1999 underscores its significance and the quality of education it provides.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1967, evolving into a robust public community college district serving Washington State.
  • Features two primary campuses: the historic Fort Steilacoom and the continuously expanding Puyallup campus.
  • The Puyallup campus grew significantly from one building in 1990 to multiple advanced facilities, including a Health Education Center and an Arts and Allied Health Building, by 2010.
  • Initially held classes in unconventional locations before establishing a permanent 140-acre campus near Fort Steilacoom in 1970.
  • Recognized as Washington's 34th community college in 1999, highlighting its vital role in the state's education system.

Timeline

1967
Established as Clover Park Community College with Marion Oppelt, PhD, as its first president.
1970
Renamed Fort Steilacoom Community College after establishing a permanent 140-acre campus.
1986
Expanded to a second location in Puyallup and renamed Pierce College.
1990
Puyallup campus opened with its first building, the Gaspard Education Center.
1996
Brouillet Library Science Center opened on the Puyallup campus, expanding resources.
1999
Recognized by the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges as Washington's 34th community college.
2004
Puyallup campus expanded with the College Center building.
2008
Health Education Center Puyallup opened, enhancing healthcare-related programs.
2010
Arts and Allied Health Building opened on the Puyallup campus, diversifying offerings.
🏛️
59 Years
of Excellence

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