Exploring Programs at Clover Park Technical College
Clover Park Technical College (CPTC) in Lakewood, Washington, serves as a vital educational hub, offering diverse programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers. With a main campus serving approximately 3,500 full-time and 18,000 part-time students, CPTC plays a significant role in workforce development within the region. The college offers Bachelor of Applied Science degrees, Associate of Applied Technology (AAT) degrees, and various certificate programs tailored to meet industry demands.
A Brief History and Transformation
Originally a World War II navy supply base, CPTC has undergone substantial renovations since 2002, transforming into a modern, pedestrian-friendly campus. This extensive construction program reflects the college's commitment to providing a contemporary learning environment for its students.
Diverse Program Offerings
CPTC’s programs are comprehensive, ranging from aerospace and aviation to nursing and construction trades. These programs ensure students are well-prepared for their chosen fields.
Aerospace and Aviation
Located at the South Hill Campus adjacent to Thun Field in Puyallup, the School of Aerospace and Aviation offers specialized programs for those passionate about the aviation industry. These programs are designed for individuals aspiring to become professional pilots or aircraft mechanics, covering repairs for both private and commercial aircraft.
Nursing Programs
With a history of training nurses since 1962, CPTC offers a multitude of nursing programs designed to prepare students for various roles within the healthcare sector. These programs equip graduates with the necessary knowledge and skills to begin careers as nursing assistants or licensed practical nurses.
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Northwest Career & Technical High School
CPTC manages the Northwest Career & Technical High School (NWC&THS), which allows high school students to simultaneously earn their diploma and take classes in their chosen career program. NWC&THS, which opened in the fall of 2003 with 21 students and graduated 16 in 2005, provides a unique opportunity for young individuals to get a head start on their technical education.
Transitional Studies
Transitional Studies, encompassing Adult Basic Education (ABE) and Adult Basic Skills, serves as an entry point for many students at CPTC. Often discovered through word-of-mouth, ABE is designed to help students build the foundational skills necessary for success in college, work, and everyday life.
Adult Basic Education (ABE)
ABE classes focus on developing essential skills for college-level courses through Math and English Foundations classes, enhancing digital skills via Technology Literacy classes, and providing pathways to earn a GED or High School Diploma.
Eligibility for ABE
The program is available to adult students needing support in building digital and computer skills, those intending to enroll in a college-level program and testing into ABE classes, adult students pursuing their GED or High School diploma, and ESL students looking to advance their English proficiency.
Cost and Schedule
A $25 registration fee is required per quarter, with tuition waivers available for students with financial need. Classes are held online, in-person at the Lakewood Campus, and at various off-site locations, typically Monday through Thursday mornings starting at 9 am or evenings starting at 6:30 pm.
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English as a Second Language (ESL)
The English as a Second Language (ESL) program, also known as English Language Acquisition (ELA), caters to adults who do not speak English as their first language. The program emphasizes the four core language competencies: reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Eligibility for ESL
Resident immigrants or refugees aged 19 or older are eligible for the ESL program. Individuals on student or tourist visas should consult the International Education page for further information.
Cost and Schedule
Similar to ABE, the ESL program has a $25 registration fee per quarter, with tuition waivers available for eligible students. Classes are offered online, at the Lakewood Campus, and at off-site locations, typically Monday through Thursday mornings starting at 9 am or evenings starting at 5:30 pm.
GED & High School +
For adult students without a high school diploma, CPTC offers two distinct paths to obtaining this essential credential.
Option 1: GED
GED classes are designed to prepare students for the four required tests: Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Note that as of June 2025, CPTC Testing Center will no longer offer GED testing, and students will need to visit www.GED.com for information on nearby testing centers.
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If you are 16, 17 or 18 years old, you must submit a Request for Approval to Test form OR a Notarized Statement/Letter for Home School Students to our office before admissions to the college. GED records can be found by logging into the student's GED.com account. Call 1-877-EXAM-GED (1-877-392-6433) for further assistance.
Option 2: High School +
The High School + option allows students to earn a high school diploma by evaluating their high school transcript alongside professional and personal experiences. Students may take ABE classes and/or GED tests for credit and work one-on-one with an instructor to complete their diploma.
If you are 16, 17 or 18 years old, you must submit a Request for Approval to Test form OR a Notarized Statement/Letter for Home School Students to our office before admissions to the college. Tuition waivers are available for students with financial need.
Schedule
Classes for both GED and High School + are held online, in-person at the Lakewood Campus, and at various off-site locations, typically Monday through Thursday mornings starting at 9 am or evenings starting at 5 pm. Off-site classes are also available at various locations around the Tacoma area.
Integrated Basic Education Skills Training (I-BEST)
I-BEST is a certificate program that combines Adult Basic Education (ABE) with job skills training, allowing students to gain valuable skills without needing a GED or high school diploma. The program typically takes one to three quarters to complete and can lead to employment or transfer of credits to a degree program.
Eligibility for I-BEST
To join I-BEST, students must be enrolled in one of the certificate programs offering ABE Support Courses.
CPTC I-BEST Certificate Programs
CPTC offers several I-BEST certificate programs, including:
- Automotive Technician (Inactive I-Best): This program provides hands-on training with the latest automotive technology. The 85,000 square-foot facility includes modern paint rooms, computer labs, classrooms, and shops.
- C-TAPP Construction Trades Academy Pre-Apprenticeship Program (Active I-Best): This program prepares students for jobs in the construction industry, with certifications in Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP), Forklift Operation, OSHA 10 Construction Safety, First Aid and CPR, Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP), and AED (defibrillator use).
- Nursing Assistant - Certified (also known as CNA) (Inactive I-Best): Students learn the fundamentals of nursing, leading to employment as a Nursing Assistant - Certified (NA-C) or priority registration into Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) when all other requisites are pre-met.
- Practical Nursing (LPN) (Inactive I-Best): The Practical Nursing Program prepares students entry into the nursing profession. A practical nurse registered will work under the direction of a licensed nurse, licensed physician, or dentist. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX PN exam. This is a pathway program to Registered Nurse programs.
- Pharmacy Technician (Active I-Best): This program offers hands-on training in the classroom and lab, preparing students for careers assisting pharmacists in various healthcare settings.
Additional Resources
CPTC provides a range of resources to support student success.
Disability Resources
Students with learning styles and/or physical needs can request additional accommodations to help them succeed.
Workforce Development
Workforce Development offers financial assistance beyond FAFSA, along with financial counseling, WorkSource services, and short-term training courses through Continuing Education.
CPTC Foundation
The Clover Park Technical College (CPTC) Foundation offers scholarships and emergency funding to support students' education.
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