Pearl River Community College (NWCC)

4975 Hwy 51 N, Senatobia, MS

Pearl River Community College, located in Poplarville, Mississippi, began as Pearl River Country Agricultural High School which came into being in 1908 through a state law establishing several such institutions throughout the state. The school system was found to be in violation of the then separate but equal act, resulting in the closure of 17 of the twenty schools. PRCC's doors were kept open through private funding from citizens that allowed the school to operate until a new law could be passed that met the separate but equal laws standards. The school added freshman college courses to the school in 1921, followed by sophomore courses in 1925, making it the first community college in the state. Since that time the school has experienced period of growth over the years, resulting in changes to curriculum and facilities to accommodate increased enrollment and the need to modernize and refurbish facilities as well as new ones in order to provide an excellent educational environment for current and future students. Portion of the Poplarville Campus, including the colleges oldest structure, Moody Hall, had to be razed due to damage from Hurricane Katrina and concerns over student safety. Reconstruction has been stalled due to insurance issues.

Academics

Pearl River Community College offers a number of degree and certificate programs aimed at providing students with a solid education in a vocational or technical field, or to transfer to a four year institution to continue one's education. Career programs prepare students for entry into the workforce as professionals by assisting in the development of skills and abilities necessary to perform duties and tasks in a given field. Programs take between one and two years to complete, and the resulting degree or certificate demonstrates competency and training that allows for employment at the entry level.

Transfer programs complete the freshman and sophomore years of a four year education, followed by the submission of an application to a four year institution to transfer credits and complete one's bachelor's degree. Colleges and universities will each have separate requirements for transfer admissions so it is advised student meet with an academic counselor to develop a curriculum that best assists in fulfilling the requirements of the student's desired school or schools.

Programs offered include:

• Cosmetology
• Physical Therapist Assistant
• History
• Psychology
• Practical Nursing

Admissions and Financial Aid

Pearl River Community College is a public two year institution that maintains and open enrollment policy that allows any student to enroll that meets the minimum requirements for admission and submits an application. Students should also provide previous educational records, including standardized test scores, and may be subject to a placement exam prior to registration. Students are encouraged to meet with a councilor to discuss program enrollment, future goals, and curriculum. Participation in student orientation is also recommended as it allows the student to prepare for campus life.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. Students in need of assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which will provide the school with the information necessary to develop a financial aid package based on the financial needs of the student and their aid program eligibility. Aid must be reapplied for prior to the start of each  academic year.