Graduation
How do I get my degree?
To graduate with a degree or certificate, at least 25 of your last 45 credits must be earned at Pierce College (SOCAD students excepted). To receive a degree or certificate you must apply for graduation; degrees and certificates are not awarded automatically. To apply, submit a Degree and Diploma Application (PDF). At Fort Steilacoom, you can get and return this form at the Evaluations Office. At Puyallup, go to the Advising Center.
When should I apply?
Turn in your form before the end of the third week of the quarter you plan to graduate. (Before the end of the second week to graduate in summer quarter). To get your credits evaluated for a Spring Quarter evaluation, apply before the last day of Fall Quarter. Specific deadline dates are published in the quarterly class bulletins.
What happens after I apply for graduation?
You'll receive a letter from the Evaluations Office. It is your responsibility to continue to follow the program requirements and make appropriate course selections in order to meet the requirements of your degree. Once you have applied for graduation and received a response from the Evaluations Office it is not necessary to apply again, as duplicate applications are not processed.
Commencement
The commencement ceremony is held once a year, in June, for all students who have completed graduation requirements during that academic year and those that are projected to complete Spring and Summer Quarters. You and your family are encouraged to participate in this special occasion.
Graduating this spring? Check the 2008 Guide to Commencement for graduation information.
Participation in the commencement ceremony does not imply that your degree has been awarded. You must meet all degree or certificate requirements before a degree or certificate is awarded. All diplomas are mailed from the Evaluations Office after grades have been verified. This process normally takes approximately eight to ten weeks after the end of the quarter.
Contact information
- Fort Steilacoom (253) 964-6621 or (253) 964-6610
- e-mail: evaluations@pierce.ctc.edu
- Puyallup (253) 840-8322
- e-mail: puyevaluations@pierce.ctc.edu
Military Programs
Students attending the military extension sites should contact their site directly for graduation information and application procedures.
Military sites contact information:
- http://www.pierce.ctc.edu/Military/
- Fort Lewis (253) 964-6567
- e-mail: ftlewis@pierce.ctc.edu
- McChord (253) 964-6606
- e-mail: mcchord@pierce.ctc.edu
