Degree Plan

Applying to Pierce

You may apply for admission to Pierce College by visiting their Admission page to get started. 

Complete the Online Application: Fill out the application form based on your student type:

New Students: If you're applying for the first time. 

Returning Students: If you haven't attended Pierce College for four or more consecutive quarters. 

Running Start Students: High school juniors or seniors taking college-level courses. 

International Students: If you're applying from outside the U.S.

You can learn more about applying to Pierce College by clicking on the Learn More" button for more information.

Financial Aid

Pierce College offers a comprehensive range of financial aid options to support students in achieving their educational goals. Eligible students can access federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and low-interest loans. The application process begins with submitting the FAFSA or WASFA, and students are encouraged to monitor their ctcLink portal for updates and required documentation. For personalized assistance, the Financial Aid Office is available to guide students through each step, ensuring a smooth and informed experience. 

Tuition and Fees

Check out the Pierce College Fort Steilacoom and Pierce College Puyallup tuition Quarterly Tuition Calculator to calculate Tuition and fees for attending Pierce College. Additional fees are required for some classes. See class listings. These fees are NOT included in the tuition chart. Other rates apply to Running Start students and Continuing Education classes.

AA-DTA with a focus in New Media and Digital Design

Created by Pierce faculty, this map outlines the initial coursework for a variety of new media and digital design fields.

The New Media and Digital Design (NMDD) program at Pierce College is designed to transfer to most Bachelor of Arts degrees at all public four-year colleges and universities in Washington state. This map provides you a clear path to complete your degree by listing a specific set of courses relevant to your program and career. Courses are organized in a recommended sequence, please schedule accordingly.

The AA-DTA degree is designed for transfer and covers the general education requirements for most Baccalaureate degrees upon transfer. You should consider this path if you are interested in earning Baccalaureate degree.

Questions? Your Success Network is ready to help you!

New Media and Digital Design AAS

This AAS in NMDD degree covers 3D modeling, animation, digital illustration, motion graphics, video production, UX/UI design, and visual communication. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in new media and digital design industries or for advanced studies. The program is supported by a cutting-edge lab and instructors with both academic and practical expertise.

This degree is designed to support students interested in applying their skills directly to the workforce after graduation.

Transfer
Students who earn their AAS in New Media and Digital Design degree from Pierce College can transfer directly to Highline College in BAS in Integrated Design for additional career preparation.

UX/UI Design Certification

This project-based certificate focuses on human-centered design and interaction design for cross-platform apps. Students gain experience in research, usability analysis, prototyping, and user testing. Upon completion, they'll have mobile app high-fidelity prototypes and portfolio website. The program aligns with the Google UX Design certificate to help students prepare for high-demand careers.

Ther certificate is designed for students interested in direct career application of UX/UI Design skills.

Pierce college offers many resources to connect you with internships and job opportunities. Visit the Career and Workforce page for more information

DDSGN 290: Supervised Internship Course (OL)

• You will need to email Professor Min Pak at mpak@pierce.ctc.edu for a permission code for this course. Students are responsible for finding an internship. You are required to work 90 hours. It takes time to find an internship job. Students should look for their internship job one or two quarters before they take a DDSGN 290 Supervised Internship course.

Possible Internship Opportunities: 

Work Study at Pierce College 

3D Makerspace Marcom, Art Department, Design Studio, Student Services, International Program Office and etc. 

• These departments hire student designers, photographers and videographers. 

Career & Workforce (handshake)  

Online Job Database 

Job Search Website
Indeed.com

Family Business
You can create a brand, business card, poster, or website for your family members who own a business.

Students who earn their New Media and Digital Design degree from Pierce College can transfer directly to Highline College or Evergreen State College. Students wishing to transfer to another four-year program are advised to work closely with their academic advisor to map out additional requirements for an AA-DTA in New Media and Digital Design degree. 

Highline College in Integrated Design Program

• Highline College, Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Integrated Design 
• Highline College will accept all transfer credits from Pierce College.
• Pierce College students who complete AAS in New Media and Digital Design, with an accumulative GPA of 2.0 or better, who have met all admissions requirements for the Integrated Design program will receive priority admissions.

Evergreen State College

Getting ready to graduate? 

Complete a Degree and Diploma Application two terms prior to your expected graduation. It’s free. 

Download the “Degree and diploma application” form from the following link and complete the form.

•  Degree and Diploma Application Form 

You can send your completed form to evaluations@pierce.ctc.edu 

For evaluations or Graduation - Commencement eligibility questions, please contact at evaluations@pierce.ctc.edu