PACE at Pierce: A Lifeline for Returning Students and Working Adults

PACE at Pierce: A Lifeline for Returning Students and Working Adults

Pierce College’s Program for Accelerated College Education (PACE) continues to serve as a vital resource for adult learners, working professionals, and student parents seeking flexible pathways to reach their educational goals. As the only remaining PACE program in the Los Angeles Community College District, Pierce’s model stands out for its commitment to student success, support, and accessibility.

With over 2,000 students enrolled this fall and 12.5% of the Spring 2025 graduating class made up of PACE students, the program continues to support learners who are balancing school with work, family, and other responsibilities.

PACE courses are offered in convenient eight-week sessions, with many available online, making it possible for students to focus on one or two classes at a time while continuing to make progress toward their degrees.

Students across the program have shared how the structure and support of PACE helped them persist, graduate, and even transfer to top universities.

“As a returning college student and full-time employee, PACE gave me something I don't believe I'd find elsewhere: balance,” said Jackelyne.

Marianela said, “As a mother of three homeschooled daughters without access to a car, I truly appreciated the flexibility to study from home at my own pace… I’m excited to share that I was accepted to both CSUN and UCLA, and I chose UCLA!”

Marlene described her journey back to college after an extended break. “After an eight-year break from school… I was a little hesitant to return to college. The PACE Program changed that for me.”

Brittney emphasized how PACE helped her maintain balance while pursuing her education: “As someone who works full-time, the PACE program has been a game-changer for me.”

The impact of PACE continues beyond graduation. Tim Gaspar, a proud PACE graduate now running for Los Angeles City Council in 2026, reflected: “I was working full-time, and there is no way I could have earned my degree in regular classes… The PACE program was a blessing for me, and I am thankful I found it.”

According to the Pierce College Office of Institutional Effectiveness, 60% of PACE students are low-income and 56% identify as Hispanic. These demographics reflect the state’s broader push to support adult learners, a group seen as essential to meeting workforce and equity goals.

Research from California Competes and the Institute for Women’s Policy Research recommends flexibility, outreach, and holistic support for returning students—values that are embedded in the structure of the PACE program.

Community partnerships are another key component of the program’s success. In addition to long-standing collaborations with LAUSD and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services, PACE has recently partnered with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and Evans Community Adult School, and is exploring a new relationship with Homeboy Industries.

With strong leadership, dedicated counselors, and a growing list of student success stories, Pierce College’s PACE program continues to deliver high-quality, flexible education for students with complex lives and big goals.

Interested in joining PACE or referring someone who might benefit? Visit the PACE webpage to learn more.