Pierce College - Learning Centers

"Learn how to learn" at our learning centers!

Contact information

Fort Steilacoom Center (253) 964-6657
Puyallup Center (253) 840-8466

The goals of the learning centers are based on the Pierce College mission which states, "Our commitment to quality education prepares learners to live and work successfully in an ever-changing world."

Using this statement as the framework, the goals of the learning centers are:

to provide the support services necessary for retention and college success.
to develop in each learner the skills, competencies, and attitudes necessary for the attainment of personal goals.
to make possible educational opportunities for all learners.
to respect the uniqueness of all and use services and teaching strategies for diverse learning styles.

to integrate the following core abilities into the curriculum to prepare learners for the 21st Century: Effective Communication, Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Information Competency, Multiculturalism, Responsibility.

The following services and programs are offered in the learning centers:

Adult Basic Education (ABE)

Adult Basic Education (ABE) is for students who want to brush up on their basic skills of reading, writing, and math, or who want to pursue their GED but need some work on the basic foundations first. Students who are under the age of 18 need to have a high school release form in order to enroll. Students register at the learning center and must take a placement test to determine their level.

Classes meet 8-12 hours per week, mornings and evenings.
Cost: $25 tuition fee per quarter. Tuition Waiver available for those who qualify.

Prereq: CASAS Placement Test / Orientation Session

If you are a new student, please call (253) 840-8455 to sign up for an Orientation Session to take a placement test and get registered for class.
Orientation session sare Tuesdays at 10am and 5pm in Room A159.

Note: If you are under 19 years of age and have not yet graduated from high school, you must obtain an Approval to Test Form and submit a completed copy when registering for classes.

GED Classes

The GED Prep classes prepare students to take the GED Test. Whole group structured classes are held in Writing, Mathematics, and GED Reading. Most employers recognize the GED certificate as being equivalent to a high school diploma. Individuals who have obtained a GED certificate meet the educational eligibility requirement for federal financial aid.

Classes meet 8-12 hours per week, mornings and evenings.
Cost: $25 tuition fee per quarter. Tuition Waiver available for those who qualify.

Prereq: CASAS Placement Test / Orientation Session

Note: If you are under 19 years of age and have not yet graduated from high school, you must obtain an Approval to Test Form and submit a completed copy when registering for classes.