Pierce College is a public community college, part of the Washington State Community and Technical College System. It receives funding from state and local governments, offering affordable tuition rates for residents. The college operates two campuses in Lakewood and Puyallup, Washington, providing associate degrees, professional certificates, and workforce training programs.
As a public institution, Pierce College prioritizes accessibility and serves a diverse student population. It focuses on open enrollment policies, allowing most applicants to attend regardless of academic history. The college also participates in federal financial aid programs, further emphasizing its public education mission.