"Middle College for Rural Alaska" Fall Academy

  • "Middle College for Rural Alaska" Fall Academy

    The "Middle College" for Rural Alaska Fall Academy in Valdez, Alaska offers four full programs that can be completed in one to two semesters.

 

What is offered?

PWSC is offering FREE TUITION and housing to any Alaska high-school student who enrolls in any PWSC course. Students can pursue occupational endorsement certificates (OECs), work towards an associate or bachelor's degree, or take dual-credit courses. OEC programs prepare students for entry-level career positions in high-demand industries. Dual-credit courses are courses that can be used for both high school and college credit.

This opportunity is perfect for any Alaska high-school junior or senior who wants to explore a career field prior to graduation, prepare to enter the workforce upon graduation, and/or earn college-level credits to transfer to a more advanced degree program.

Tuition, fees, housing, and activities for qualified program participants will be paid for by the DEED American Rescue Plan funding and offered at no charge to the student.

Courses begin August 26th, 2024. Student check-in will be either Saturday, August 24th, or Sunday, August 25th.

General Education Requirements (In person or online)

Construction Skills, Occupational Endorsement Certificate (In person only)

Marine Service Technology, Occupational Endorsement Certificate (In person only)

Natural Resources Technician (In person only) limited seats available

Want to apply?

There are two applications for this program, one for in-person courses and one for online/distance. 

In-Person ApplicationOnline/Distance Application

All interested students must email their high school transcripts and a letter of reference from a guidance counselor or educational professional to pwsc.registration@alaska.edu. This letter is to attest that the student is ready for college-level courses.

Questions?

If you have issues accessing or submitting the application, please contact Cherise Beatus at cabeatus@alaska.edu or (907)834-1645.

What about housing?

Students who wish to live in PWSC housing will be required to pay a $300 housing deposit, which is refundable as long as no damages are incurred. Academy students will be sharing rooms and living spaces with other Academy students. Students who want to come to campus and live in housing must be at least 16 before moving in to housing.

Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from Valdez, as well as their food. We have apartment-style dorms that are fully furnished, although students will need to bring or purchase bedding, cleaning supplies, etc.

Thanks to grant funding, students can check out kitchenware, dishware, and other kitchen supplies for the semester. We do not have a cafeteria, so students are living independently, and students must know they will need to bring money for the semester to purchase food and any supplies they may need.

What will students experience?

  • In the Classroom

    Students attending in person should plan on being in class 6-8 hours each day. Depending on the course, class time may be split between a classroom, shop, and/or outdoor field experience.

  • Outdoor Adventures

    Here in Valdez we think time outdoors is important too. Prepare to go outside for moderately active adventures most days. Think hiking, beach combing, and glacier exploring.  

  • After Hours

    In-person students will stay in PWSC campus housing. Academy mentors will provide dorm supervision, coordinate evening group activities, and provide support as students negotiate independent living skills.

Partners

American Rescue Plan LogoAlaska Department of Education and Early Development - American Rescue Plan Grant