College Expectations

How Prepared Are You?

student using computer

Portland Community College offers placement tests in math and English. Contact the Admissions Office at the campus where you plan to enroll. 

Use the information below as a general guideline to gauge minimum PCC Program requirements for completion in Construction-related Pathways.

  • For a program that takes less than one year there are minimal or no program entry requirements.
  • For a one-year certificate program, students should place at basic math – arithmetic (Math 20*) and basic reading (RD 90) and writing (WR 90).
  • For a two-year certificate program, students should place at an introductory algebra level (MTH 65) and English Composition (WR 121).
  • For advanced degree programs, students should place at college algebra (MTH 111), Statistics and Calculus and English Composition/Technical Writing (WR 121, 122, 227).

*Some programs may require a higher level of these basic skills.

Career Ladder – PCC and Beyond

If you’re interested in taking your PCC education a step further, consider building on your experience and earn advanced degrees. There are opportunities to continue your education in the following fields:

PCC Programs

  • Architectural Design & Drafting
    • Associate of Applied Science Degree
  • Apprenticeship and Trades
    • Associate of Applied Science Degree
    • HVAC/Installation One Term Training - Designed to prepare students for entry-level work in the Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning field. More information can be found by contacting Andrew Roessler, 503-788-6271, aroessle@pcc.edu.
  • Building Construction Technology
    • Associate of Applied Science Degree
      • Building Construction Technology
      • Design/Build Remodeling
    • Two-year Certificate
      • Building Construction
      • Design/ Build Remodeling
    • One-year Certificate
      • Construction Management
  • Building Inspection Technology
    • Plans Examination Certificate
    • One- and Two-Family Dwelling Code (Combination Structural and Mechanical Plans Examination) Certificate
    • Mechanical Inspection Certificate
    • Structural Inspection Certificate
  • Civil Engineering Technology
    • Associate of Applied Science Degree
    • One-year Certificate
  • Drafting Technology & Design
    • Certificate
  • Electrical Trades
    • Associate of Applied Science Degree
  • Landscape Technology
    • Associate of Applied Science Degree
    • Two-year Certificates
      • Landscape Construction
      • Landscape Design
      • Landscape Management
    • One-year Certificate
      • Landscape Services Technician
  • Machine Manufacturing Technology
    • Associate of Applied Science Degree
    • Two-year Certificate
    • One-year Certificate
  • Welding
    • Associate of Applied Science Degree
    • One-year Certificate

PCC Scholarships

University Transfer Degrees

Transfer degrees in chemical, civil, computer, electrical, environmental, industrial and manufacturing and mechanical engineering are tailored to the needs of students transferring to:

Four-Year Degrees