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The College Experience

Contact Us

Running Start Information
 RunningStart@pierce.ctc.edu

Life at Pierce College

As a Running Start student, you have all the same benefits and expectations as any of our students. Find out more about what to expect as you transition from high school to college.
two students read a book together outside of the college center building

Is Running Start right for me?

The decision to begin college early is an important one. Successful college students are:

  • Mature, able to work independently, self-motivated and possess good study and time management skills.
  • Able to complete a variety of assignments with little directions from their instructors.
  • Prepared for the amount of time that college classes require. Every hour in class requires two hours of studying.

What are the benefits of Running Start?

  • Take courses not offered in high school
  • Take challenging advanced courses
  • Experience personal growth in decision-making and responsibility while developing their future educational plans
  • Save up to two years' worth of college tuition
  • Experience the diversity of college in the characteristics, ideas and abilities of fellow students and instructors

Explore Campus Life

Student Life

The Office of Student Life organizes regular events for students throughout the year, including movie nights, dances, craft activities and holiday celebrations. Join a student club or affinity group and meet fellow Pierce College students who share your passion, whether it's volleyball, K-pop, tabletop gaming, or even start your own.

Student Support

Pierce College students can access support programs to help them succeed. You can get help with your classwork at the Tutoring, Writing and Math Centers in-person and online. Other available support services include mental health counseling and personalized career and academic advising to prepare you for graduation.

Program Limitations

There are some limitations to Running Start's ability to meet the needs of every individual who enrolls. Some of these limitations include:

  • The independence, increased level of responsibility, and the speed of college courses can be challenging for some students.
  • Social development experiences are not as readily accessible at Pierce College as in high school.
  • Parents do not automatically have access to student grades and records, the student must consent to release this information.
  • Books, fees and transportation are your responsibility. Books can cost $150.00 or more per class, but you may qualify for a Book Loan based on need.
  • College schedules may conflict with courses or extracurricular activities (sports, drama, music, etc.) you want to take at your high school.
  • The college operates on a quarter system, which is different from the high school academic calendar. Holidays and vacation periods are frequently different. Students are expected to attend classes at the college even though their high schools may not be in session. Important dates and closures are available on the Academic Calendar.
  • Preferred classes frequently fill quickly, and students are not guaranteed space in classes until they are officially registered for the quarter. Make sure to meet with your advisor early to make sure that you're enrolled in the classes you need.