Pellissippi State Community College

Also known as TCAT Whiteville

1685 Highway 64, Whiteville, TN

About
Pellissippi State Community College, located in Knoxville Tennessee, was founded in 1974 as the State Technical Institute at Knoxville. The school was founded to meet the needs for technical education in the area, and when it first opened its doors it was to a total enrollment of 45 students. Over the year the school grew in size and scope, and in 1988 began offering academic transfer programs resulting in the change of focus from strictly technical institute to a community college. In response to the new focus, the school changed its name to Pellissippi State Community College. After this change the school grew rapidly, adding a total of four new campuses, and becoming one of the largest post-secondary institutions in the state.

Academics
Pellissippi State Community College offers a large number of programs that allow students to choose the one that best suits their career and technical goals. Career programs provide the skills and training in a particular field required to enter the workforce as a professional. Such programs usually take between one and two years to complete, providing a certificate or associate degree which demonstrates competency in the area of study. Having gained the experience and knowledge required through practical and classroom courses, graduates may pursue employment immediately.

Academic programs encourage transfer to four year institutions through the completion of the freshman and sophomore years of a four year education. Transfer to a four year college or university is generally easier to publicly funded institutions in the state of Tennessee, though transfer may be pursued at other colleges though requirements may vary, and as a result, students wishing to transfer to private or out of state schools are encouraged to meet with a counselor to develop a curriculum and plan that best suits the desired school or schools requirements.

Programs offered include:

• Culinary Arts
• Computer Accounting
• General Education
• Photography
• Nursing

Admissions and Financial Aid
As a two year open enrollment institution, individuals wishing to enroll at Pellissippi State Community College will be admitted if they meet the minimum requirements for admission. Students are asked to supply transcripts and standardized test scores. Students may also be required to take a placement exam, determining which general education classes they will enroll in. Participation in orientation and meeting with a counselor to discuss goals and program curriculum are encouraged. Registration for classes takes place prior to the start of each semester, with fees due shortly thereafter.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the resulting student aid report (SAR) from which will be used to determine financial needs, program eligibility, and monetary awards. Students may also be eligible for state funding and aid programs. Additional financial documentation may be requested by the school to ensure that the information on the SAR is accurate. Financial aid must be reapplied for every year, prior to the start of the academic year.

Clubs and Organizations
Students at Pellissippi State Community College are encouraged to join one or more of the many approved clubs and organizations on campus. These groups provide students the opportunity to explore interests covering academics, social issues, extracurricular activities, and other such interests. Clubs and organizations provide a forum for discourse and a meeting area allowing individuals with similar interests to congregate and pursue personal and social development. Students who do not find a club or organization that is related to their interests may pursue the founding of one through the process outlined by the school.

Clubs and organizations include:

• Creative Writing Club
• Drama Club
• Fencing Club
• Kendo
• Short Film Club