Prince George's Community College: A Hub of Learning and Community Engagement

Prince George's Community College (PGCC) stands as a prominent public institution dedicated to transforming lives through education and community involvement. Established in 1958, this large, two-year college has a rich history rooted in progress and inclusivity. Originally commencing classes at Suitland High School with a modest student body of 185, PGCC celebrated 50 years of service in 2008, a testament to its enduring commitment to accessible higher education. Notably, the college was the first educational institution to integrate in Prince George's County and today serves more African-American students than any other post-secondary institution in the state of Maryland, underscoring its role as a leader in educational equity.

A Foundation of Growth and Expansion

The college's journey of growth led it to its permanent location in Largo, Maryland, in 1967. Since then, PGCC has expanded significantly, now serving nearly 40,000 students. This expansive growth is reflected in its modern facilities, including the recently completed Center for Advanced Technology and the Center for Health Studies, which enhance the learning environment for students pursuing a diverse range of academic and vocational paths. PGCC offers both certificate and associate degrees, catering to a wide spectrum of educational aspirations.

Expanding Reach and Accessibility

Beyond its main campus in Largo, PGCC extends its educational reach through extension centers located at the University Town Center in Hyattsville and Andrews Air Force Base. Additionally, the Skilled Trades Center in Camp Springs provides specialized training. This multi-site presence ensures greater accessibility for residents across Prince George's County and beyond. The college also actively participates in dual-enrollment programs, offering high school junior and senior students from Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school.

Academic Excellence and Diverse Offerings

Prince George's Community College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring a high standard of academic quality. The college offers a broad array of academic programs, with its areas of study encompassing a wide range of disciplines. Students can explore various fields, from the arts and humanities to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as career-focused technical programs. This extensive catalog of academic offerings is detailed in the college's Academic Catalog, providing prospective students with comprehensive information about available courses and degree pathways.

Special Programs and Community Resources

PGCC is deeply committed to serving the specific needs and interests of its community. This commitment is evident in its special programs, such as the Book Bridge Project, which promotes literacy and access to literature; the Center for Business and Industry Training, which supports workforce development and economic growth; and the Children's Developmental Clinic, which provides essential services to young children and their families. Furthermore, the college makes its facilities available to the public, including meeting rooms and recreational amenities like the Robert I. Bickford Natatorium, fostering a strong connection between the college and the wider community.

Student Life and Support Services

The college experience at PGCC extends beyond the classroom, with a focus on student well-being and engagement. While specific details on campus life activities and organizations can evolve, PGCC historically supports a vibrant student community. Students can find resources such as study rooms, print services, and computer labs equipped with tutoring assistance to support their academic endeavors. The college also facilitates student involvement through various student clubs and organizations, providing opportunities for social interaction, leadership development, and shared interests. For those interested in athletics, PGCC participates in NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association) competitions, offering opportunities for student-athletes.

Comprehensive Student Services

Prince George's Community College is dedicated to providing a supportive environment for all its students. This includes a robust offering of student services designed to aid in academic success and personal development. These services are continually updated to meet the evolving needs of the student body, reflecting the college's commitment to student retention and achievement. Information on prospective student resources and academic advising is readily available to guide individuals through their educational journey.

Admissions and Enrollment Information

Prince George's Community College welcomes a diverse range of learners. Admission to Continuing Education programs is open to all students aged 16 and older, unless a specific program has age restrictions or is designed for a particular demographic. The college's application process is designed to be accessible, with information regarding application types and fee waivers available to prospective students. The college aims to make the application process as straightforward as possible, with opportunities to apply for free without requiring a specific waiver for certain programs.

Navigating College Policies and Rights

PGCC operates with a commitment to transparency and student rights. The college adheres to the Student Right to Know Act of 1990, providing information on graduation and persistence rates for various student population groups, accessible online. In terms of safety and security, PGCC aligns with the Campus Security Act of 1990, offering information on college community safety through its Police Substation and website.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a cornerstone of student privacy at PGCC. This act grants students rights concerning their education records, including the right to inspect and review these records, request amendments to inaccurate information, and consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information. Exceptions to consent requirements include disclosures to school officials with legitimate educational interests, such as those employed by the college in administrative, academic, or support roles, or external contractors with whom the college has agreements. Directory information, such as names and addresses, may be released without consent under certain circumstances, particularly when a legitimate need to know can be demonstrated. Students are informed of their rights and the procedures for exercising them, including how to report potential FERPA violations to the Department of Education.

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Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

Prince George's Community College is founded on a strong commitment to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. The college's policy ensures that no individual is excluded from participation in or denied the benefits of any program or activity based on sex, age, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status, or as a qualified individual with a disability. This commitment extends to providing an educational and employment environment free from discrimination based on sex and retaliation.

Title IX Compliance and Support

As a recipient of federal financial assistance, PGCC is bound by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. The college has a robust policy against sex discrimination and retaliation in its educational programs and activities, including admissions and employment. The College's Title IX Complaint and Grievance Process is designed for the prompt, fair, and impartial resolution of all allegations of sex discrimination or retaliation. The college actively addresses any notice, complaint, or knowledge of potential policy violations, and incidents can be reported to any Title IX Team member or through an online complaint form.

Special Provisions for Diverse Learners

PGCC recognizes the importance of supporting diverse student populations, including active duty service members. The college has been identified by the American Association of Community Colleges as a Servicemembers Opportunity College (SOC), providing educational assistance tailored to the unique needs of military personnel.

Drug and Alcohol Policy

Prince George's Community College maintains a strict policy prohibiting the illicit possession, use, or distribution of drugs and alcohol on college property or as part of any college activity. The Office of Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention (ODAAP) plays a crucial role in coordinating and facilitating this program. The ODAAP informs students and employees about available counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation resources, educates them on the health risks associated with substance abuse, and clarifies the legal and disciplinary sanctions for violations of the established standards of conduct.

Alumni Engagement and Community Partnership

The Prince George's Community College Alumni Association serves as a vital link between the college and its former students. Membership is open to all who have attended PGCC and completed at least 15 credit hours or four noncredit courses. Alumni members receive identification cards granting them access to on-campus events, the library, and recreational facilities, along with discounted rates for certain services like the Natatorium. This engagement fosters a continued connection to the college and its mission.

Ensuring Accessibility and Accommodation

Prince George's Community College is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive environment for all students. For individuals requiring special services, such as interpreters or recorded materials, it is essential to register and pay for courses at least one month prior to the class start date. Information regarding accommodations and available services can be obtained by contacting the relevant departments. The college also ensures that accessible transportation is provided for handicapped individuals on all school-sponsored trips, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to inclusivity.

Important Disclaimer

It is important for all students and prospective students to be aware that the provisions outlined in college publications are not to be construed as a contract between the student and Prince George's Community College. The College reserves the right to modify any provision or requirement when such changes are deemed to be in the best interest of the College and its students. This ensures the college can adapt and evolve to best serve its educational mission and the needs of its community.

Academic Calendar and Weather Policies

The college aims to hold all regular classes on scheduled days. In instances of hazardous weather, classes at local public school locations will be canceled if Prince George's County Public Schools announce closures. Extension centers like the Laurel College Center, Skilled Trades Center, and University Town Center will follow the Largo campus weather schedule. In cases of delayed opening, classes with at least 45 minutes of instructional time remaining will proceed. Students are advised to park in designated student lots only.

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