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Dallas College

Dallas, TX

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Quick Facts

“Education That Works.”

1965
Founded
Public community college
Type
41,815
Total Students
64,156
Undergrad
$2K
Tuition (In-State)
$6K
Tuition (Out-State)
$4K
Avg Net Price
36%
Graduation Rate
6-year
89%
Retention Rate
Associate's Colleges
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Dallas College

Dallas College: Unifying seven campuses for streamlined, workforce-ready education.

Dallas College stands as a beacon of accessible education, embodying its motto "Education That Works." This public community college offers a unique and simplified pathway for students pursuing their academic and career aspirations. With a history rooted in a commitment to community, Dallas College today operates as a consolidated institution, bringing together what were once seven individually accredited colleges under one expansive umbrella.

Founded in 1965 as the Dallas County Junior College District, and later becoming the Dallas County Community College District (DCCCD) in 1972, the institution has a rich legacy of serving the Dallas metropolitan area. Its inaugural campus, El Centro College, opened its doors in downtown Dallas in 1966, setting the stage for decades of growth and educational impact across the region.

The most significant transformation occurred in 2020 when the district undertook a bold consolidation plan. This strategic move unified its seven constituent institutions into a single, accredited entity, now known as Dallas College, with its former colleges transitioning into dedicated campuses. This consolidation was primarily designed to simplify the student journey, making enrollment easier and streamlining graduation requirements, thus fostering a more cohesive and supportive academic environment for all.

For prospective students and families, Dallas College offers a distinct advantage: a unified system that removes traditional barriers and ensures a consistent, high-quality educational experience across its diverse campuses. While undergoing significant structural changes, the core mission remains providing flexible, relevant, and impactful education that directly translates into career success, preparing students for the dynamic workforce needs of today and tomorrow.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Consolidated seven separately accredited institutions into one unified Dallas College in 2020.
  • ✦Aims to simplify enrollment and graduation requirements, enhancing the student experience.
  • ✦Operates as a public community college with multiple vibrant campuses across Dallas.
  • ✦Founded in 1965 as the Dallas County Junior College District.
  • ✦Home to the historic El Centro College, established in 1966 as its first campus.
  • ✦Driven by the guiding motto: "Education That Works."

Timeline

1965
Founded as the Dallas County Junior College District
1966
El Centro College, the first campus, established in downtown Dallas
1972
Renamed the Dallas County Community College District (DCCCD)
1965
Bill J. Priest began tenure as founding chancellor
1981
Bill J. Priest retired as founding chancellor
2020
February: Announced plan to consolidate its seven constituent institutions
2020
June 12: Merger approved by accreditor SACSCOC
2020
District changed its name to Dallas College; former institutions became campuses
2021
October: Full-time faculty passed a resolution of no confidence against then-chancellor Dr. Joe May
🏛️
61 Years
of Excellence

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