Image
Students gather in the AAH lobby

Accurate course placement and selection is a critical first step as you prepare to enroll at Pierce College. Our goal is to ensure you are able to engage in the classroom with your faculty and other students, learn the required material, and enjoy the most meaningful learning experience possible.

Pierce College uses Guided Self-Placement (GSP) for most English and math placements. Information about the GSP process is detailed below.

Which placement path is right for you?

Your individual situation determines what placement path is best for you. Identify what type of student you are below, along with the methods of placement in preferred order on the right side.

Running Start  >

Running Start eligibility is determined by college level placement in English.

Other, new to Pierce College  >

Completed courses at another college  >

Transitional studies  >

Guided Self-Placement

Guided Self-Placement (GSP) for English and math are processes designed to provide you with information needed to make an informed decision about your English and math placement. English self-placement is a guide offering a brief overview of English 101 and the two versions of the course – corequisite and non-corequisite – that are available to you. Self-placement in math is a questionnaire  that will guide you through a series of questions and activities requiring you to reflect on prior experience with English and math. Through the GSP process, you will gain insight about your background and will learn information needed to make an informed decision about your English and math placement. GSP can be completed through the New Student Guide, Prepare for Your First Advising Appointment Module.

College Transcripts

If you have credits from other colleges you may be able to use your official or unofficial transcript for placement. Credits earned at colleges and universities that are recognized by a postsecondary accreditation association are generally accepted by Pierce College.

Unofficial transcripts may be submitted to the Testing Center for placement evaluation. To be considered for transfer of credit, official transcripts must be sent directly to the Admissions Office at Fort Steilacoom.