Program for Adult College Education (PACE)

Have you ever wanted to go to college but couldn't because of work, family, or thought it wasn't possible? The PACE program at Diablo Valley College is here for you!

PACE is designed to support working adults who are pursuing degrees or transfer opportunities to four-year colleges/universities. With flexible evening and online courses, the PACE program can help you get started on your journey toward a college degree today!

Whether you are changing careers, seeking a promotion or returning to school, the PACE program can help you achieve your dreams of a college education. Choose from flexible evening and online courses or transfer degree programs designed just for you.

PACE Advantages and Benefits

• Reserved seating in courses with dedicated PACE instructors
• Assigned counselors
• Focused curriculum to help you stay on track
• Mid-term success reports to help track your academic progress
• PACE mentorship support provided
• Evening and weekend tutoring
• Additional graduation ceremony for PACE students
• Access to transfer partner Universities that have programs for working adults:
  • CSU East Bay
  • Sacramento State University
  • CSU Stanislaus
  • Saint Mary's College
  • Southern New Hampshire University
  • Western Governors University
  • San Francisco State University

PACE Program Requirements

• Must commit to a minimum of 2 semesters of PACE coursework and adhere to the PACE curriculum
• Meet with a PACE counselor every semester to create and maintain a Student Educational Plan
• Enroll in Student Success course during the first term (unless previously taken)
• Must be employed or be a full-time parent

PLEASE NOTE:

If you need two or three classes to complete your educational goal, this program is NOT for you.

PACE Degree Tracks (two-year course sequences):

• Administration of Justice Associate Degree for Transfer (PDF)
• Business Administration Associate Degree for Transfer (PDF)
• Psychology Associate Degree for Transfer (PDF)
• Social Justice Associate Degree for Transfer (PDF)
• Sociology Associate Degree for Transfer (PDF)

How Do I Begin?

Applying to PACE takes FOUR easy steps:

Step 1: Apply to DVC (If you're a current DVC student, you can skip this step.)

Step 2: Apply for PACE (We are now accepting applications for summer/fall 2025. The deadline to apply is May 5th, 2025)

Step 3: Meet with a PACE counselor

We'll reach out to you after you submit your application to discuss your goals, including transferring to a university, and will help you build an educational plan.

Step 4: FAFSA

Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

This application will help determine how much financial aid you qualify for. Some of our students don’t pay any tuition.

If you need help filling out the FAFSA, contact the DVC Financial Aid Office for assistance.