Military Programs, Degrees and Certificates

Programs Offered at Pierce's Military Centers

Associate in Technology - General (Fort Lewis & McChord)

A graduate of any approved occupational/vocational program from an accredited college, military school, vocational/technical institute, technical college, licensed private vocational school, industry, apprentice-based training, or university may be granted up to 65 quarter credits toward the Associate in Technology - General degree. The remainder of the student's program shall include general education course requirements in the areas of communication, computation, human relations, leadership and electives.

Accounting (Fort Lewis)

The accounting field has changed significantly in recent years. The expansion of the use of computers in the processing of accounting data has changed the job of an accountant from a technician to one significantly more involved in analysis, reporting and accounting systems understanding. In addition to providing up-to-date knowledge of accounting procedures, the Accounting Program at Pierce College is designed to provide computer skills and analytical skills that will greatly enhance the students employability in for-profit and not-for-profit organizations.

Pierce College offers both an Associate in Accounting program and a Certificate in Practical Accounting.

Pierce College's Accounting offerings are designed to meet three basic needs:

Training for entry-level jobs in accounting requiring higher level skills than data-entry;
Accounting coursework requirements for students who plan to transfer to four-year institutions and major in business;
Support courses for other programs of the college.

Business (Fort Lewis & McChord)

The wide variety of employment opportunities offered by the business world makes a business career attractive and challenging for many people. Whether you are just exploring the options available or have already begun your career, Pierce College's business offerings can help you perfect the skills you need to advance in business.

Associate In Business

A professional/technical degree program that prepares graduates for business careers, the Associate in Business curriculum offers a broad background in practical business skills. Its variety and flexibility meet the needs of both students preparing for business careers and those already working in the business world who seek to improve their skills. Students planning to continue their education in fields related to business should contact the school(s) they are interested in tranferring to in order to determine prerequisites for specific programs.

Computer Information Systems (Fort Lewis & McChord)

The widespread use of computers in the processing of technical information has opened a career field which continues to grow. If you're interested in becoming a part of that field, our Computer Information Systems department gives you a variety of choices with which to build a future.

CIS Degree Alternatives

Pierce College offers many program options:

Software Engineering. Most employment in programming now requires significant abilities to work with end users. This degree program prepares students for jobs as computer analyst/programmers by combining system analysis and design courses with a strong core of programming courses. This degree is also highly transferable to four-year institutions.
Programming. This technical degree prepares students for entry-level employment in computer programming.
Microcomputer Applications. This unique program is designed to meet the growing demand for "microcomputer specialists" - trainers, problem solvers and troubleshooters who work with businesses as they expand microcomputer use in all phases of operations.
In addition, the Associate in Arts and Sciences degree prepares students with computing interests for transfer to four-year institutions for Bachelor's or Master's degrees in Computer Science or Business/Management Information Systems.

Our CIS programs are enhanced by state-of-the-art labs that offer full computer capabilities and actual, hands-on experience in the full range of computer functions. You will study with instructors who have both academic expertise and practical experience in their field, bringing a genuine working knowledge to their teaching. For more information about prerequisites or to begin your studies, contact the Pierce College Admissions Office, (253) 964-6501 at Fort Steilacoom or (253) 864-3292 at Puyallup.

Criminal Justice (Fort Lewis)

The Associate in Criminal Justice degree program at Pierce College is designed to provide you with the basic skills and knowledge to begin a career in the field of criminal justice, to advance in your career if you are already employed by a criminal justice agency, or to go on for further academic work.

Career Opportunities

A variety of local, state and federal government agencies constitute a nationwide system of criminal justice. These agencies, primarily police, correctional and investigative, require a constant influx of new personnel.

Law Enforcement Careers: Two years of college are either required or considered in selection processes for an ever-increasing number of American police agencies. The associate degree program combines general academic and career-oriented courses to give you the knowledge essential for successful police work.

Corrections Careers: A steady demand exists nationwide for probation and parole officers and correctional counselors. A bachelor's degree is required for many of these jobs. Pierce's program is designed to transfer to most four-year institutions and provides a firm foundation for those interested in such careers.

Federal Careers: If you are interested in a career with the federal government you will probably need a four-year degree. Pierce's Criminal Justice degree program is a first step in that direction.

Transfer Opportunities

Bachelor's degrees in criminal justice are widely available. The University of Washington, Washington State University and Central Washington University are among the state schools that offer such a degree. The last two years of a Bachelor of Arts in Law & Justice are available on the campus of Pierce College Fort Steilacoom through Central Washington University's extension program. Be sure to inform your advisor if you are interested in transferring, to ensure that you take the proper courses, as each university has its own unique requirements.

For more specific program information, contact the Criminal Justice Department at (253) 964-6437 or the Corrections Officer Pre-employment Training Program at (253) 964-6407.