Program helping to pick up the PACE

Accelerated classes are available for students looking to graduate earlier

Brent Spector / Roundup

Integrating school and work can be challenging, but the Pierce College Program for Accelerated College Education (PACE) helps make that possible for several students every year.

PACE is available to all students who want to finish classes in half the time of regular Pierce classes while still retaining the same academic value as regular courses.

The PACE program started 30 years ago aimed at helping working adults complete college classes while working during the day, according to PACE consultant Ryan Son.

Currently, PACE has approximately 4,000 students enrolled in it today, said Son.

"[For students, the best part about the program is that it's] accelerated and condensed," Son said.

With the accelerated courses, PACE students are able to get their associate's degree and transfer in two years due to classes fitting into 8-week quarters, rather thank taking 15-week long semesters.

Along with Son, Lupita Narkevicus is the other PACE consultant and senior office assistant at the PACE office. Both are available to answer student questions about the program.

"Students can find a lot of information about the program on our website, including the frequency and availability of classes," Narkevicus said.

The next scheduled orientation is March 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Great Hall.