Paris Junior College » Entry
Learn About PJC
Published or Revised February 28, 2012
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924 and is the oldest continuously operated community college in Texas.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/vocational fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/vocational programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 14 tree-shaded acres includes 18 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates campuses in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
As of the spring 2012 semester, Paris Junior College's enrollment stood at 5,674.
Vision
An open door community college meeting the educational and cultural needs of all students and citizens of the area.Mission
Paris Junior College is a dynamic, comprehensive community college advancing the education of students while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.Texas Education Code 130.003
The purpose of each public community college shall be to provide:
- Technical programs up to two years in length leading to associate degrees or certificates.
- Vocational programs leading directly to employment in semi-skilled and skilled occupations.
- Freshman and sophomore courses in arts and sciences.
- Continuing adult education programs for occupational or cultural upgrading.
- Compensatory education programs designed to fulfill the commitment of an admissions policy allowing the enrollment of disadvantaged students.
- A continuing program of counseling and guidance designed to assist students in achieving their individual educational goals.
- Workforce development programs designed to meet local and statewide needs.
- Adult literacy and other basic skills programs for adults.
- Such other purposes as may be prescribed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or local governing boards in the best interest of post-secondary education in Texas.
Paris Junior College's Strategic Goals
- Increase enrollment and retention of students to reflect the diversity of the service area.
- Promote student success through expanded student services.
- Hire, retain, and develop successful employees as a key to a positive impact on our students and communities.
- Provide excellence in academics, college preparation, workforce training, continuing education, and adult basic education to assure student success.
- Provide cultural and personal enrichment for the college and the community.
- Provide and maintain physical facilities which are technologically current, aesthetically pleasing, and conducive to learning, living, and working in a higher education environment.
- Manage allocated financial resources effectively and efficiently and pursue opportunities to provide additional resources supporting the institution with accountability to the taxpayers and benefactors.
Affiliations
In 1924 the Texas Department of Education recognized Paris Junior College as a standard two-year institution. In the same year, the Association of Texas Colleges ranked this college as one of first class. In December 1934, Paris Junior College was admitted to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and has maintained full accreditation since that time.
The Associate Degree Nursing program, following detailed self-study and team visitation, achieved full accreditation by the National League of Nursing in 1978.
Learn more by exploring Paris Junior College using the links below.
