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Integrated Basic Education Skills Training (I-BEST)

Integrated Basic Education Skills Training (I-BEST) is a unique program for students who need basic skills and professional-technical career training. In addition to support from their program instructors, I-BEST students are paired with an Academic Support Instructor for twice the support in each of their classes.

This integrated approach tailors a student's education and training to the specific needs of the career they've chosen. This increases student success in the career training program and in life. The program is open to any new students at Pierce College, and to our adult learners in the Adult Basic Education, General Education Development (GED), or English as a Second Language (ESL) programs.

A High School Diploma or GED is not required to enter the program. Students receive hands-on assistance with program intake, enrollment, funding qualification, registration and program orientation.

I-BEST provides students the support to:

  • Earn a college certificate that prepares them to work in a high-demand career.
  • Increase academic skills while earning college-level credits.
  • Increase their abilities and opportunities for employment in their chosen career field.

I-BEST Career Programs

Integrated Business Technology

In just three academic quarters, students can earn an Integrated Business Technology (I-BEST) Certificate and 38 - 40 credits toward any of the Associate Degrees offered. This is an online academic program with I-BEST Academic Support provided in-person. Students can begin in any quarter at both the Puyallup and Fort Steilacoom campuses.

For more information, download our Certificate in Integrated Business Technology informational flyer.