By: Summer Kennard
“It’s great news, very great news,” said Jay Olegeriil, Palau Community College’s Vice President and Accreditation Liaison Officer, announcing that PCC has earned accreditation for its first four-year degree program, the Bachelor of Science in Science.
The historic accreditation, granted by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) on August 15, 2025, follows more than a year of preparation and planning. The PCC Board of Trustees approved the degree on April 9, 2024.
“This program addresses a critical need in our community,” Olegeriil said. “We see a gap in local scientists, educators, and nurses. This degree will help fill that void with qualified professionals.”
The accreditation allows PCC students to access federal Title IV funding, including Pell Grants, College Work Study, and the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, expanding opportunities for higher education in Palau.
The four-year program is housed in PCC’s new science building, equipped with modern laboratories and classrooms. A rigorous review demonstrated that the college has the necessary curriculum, financial resources, faculty, and facilities to sustain the program.
PCC President Dr. Patrick U. Tellei credited a dedicated task force for the achievement. Chaired by Olkeriil, the Four-Year Degree Task Force included Associate Professors, Deans, the Computer Services Director, Financial Aid Director, and other staff who worked closely to ensure the program met accreditation standards.
Sherry Ngirmeriil was hired as the Four-Year Degree Coordinator to guide the first cohorts of students. “We want these students to have guidance, a clear educational path, and all the support they need,” Olkeriil said.
The Bachelor of Science in Science marks a milestone for Palau Community College and for the broader Palauan community, representing the first fully accredited four-year degree program in the institution’s history.