Before Classes Start
Get ready for your first semester at Dallas College! If you’re a first-time college student, there are a few important steps you can take to ensure you’re prepared and set up for success.
Step 1. Complete the Admissions Process
You’ll need to apply to college and complete some required documents. Once you’ve applied, a success coach will help you plan your college journey.
Step 2. Meet Your Success Coach and Register
From day one, you’ll have a success coach in your corner, helping you register, find your way, and get the support you need.
What is a success coach? If you're a Dallas College student, contact your success coach. Whether you're feeling lost, confused or just ready to get started, we'll help you plan, grow and find where you belong. At Dallas College, your assigned success coach is your go-to help for exploring programs and reviewing academic progress, preparing for transfer or employment and connecting with campus resources like tutoring, mental health support and career planning, so you can develop the skills you need to succeed. We've got you covered. Connect with the success coach today via a Navigate appointment, swinging by campus or meeting with us virtually. We're ready when you are.
Step 3. Register for EDUC 1300
Learning Frameworks (EDUC 1300) is a first-year success course designed specifically for first-time college students. It covers strategies for academic success, time management, study skills, college resources and more. By enrolling in Learning Frameworks, you’ll develop tools to thrive in college and beyond.
Step 4. Choose a Program of Study
Work with your success coach to choose a program of study. A program of study is required to receive financial aid and also helps you reach your academic and career goals.
Learn more below about choosing a program of study.
Would you go on a trip without knowing where you're headed? Of course not. A program of study is your college roadmap. In addition to being a financial aid requirement, it outlines what classes to take to complete a degree or certificate. Whether you're transferring to a university or launching your career, your program of study keeps you focused and on track to complete and reach your academic, professional and personal goals. Your college education starts with a single step. Choose from one of our seven career pathways today. Connect with your success coach via a Navigate appointment, swinging by campus or meeting with us virtually. We're ready when you are.
Step 5. Attend New Student Orientation
All first-time students are required to attend New Student Orientation. At orientation, you will learn about Dallas College and resources available to help you succeed, meet other students, discover ways to get involved on campus and more.
Step 6. Get Ready for Day One
Visit the Ready for Day One page for information about setting up your technology, getting to know your instructor and more so that you’re ready for your first day of class!
Discover more ways Dallas College supports and develops students.
At Dallas College, we surround you with support from day one, because thriving in college means more than just passing classes. First, there's student life and engagement. Find opportunities to serve through Student Government Association. Build community through intercultural and global student engagement. Or explore your purpose in the Student Leadership Institute. Then, there's our many student support programs. Discover the LGBTQ Plus and Women's Empowerment Network, Male Achievement Program, Military Connected Services, and Hand-in-Hand Foster Care to find empowerment rooted in mentorship, identity, and purpose. And finally, the Student Care Network. Dallas College provides access to food, health services, mental health counseling, and compassionate care to keep you moving forward. At Dallas College, we support who you are inside and out, fostering your well-being, fueling your growth, and connecting you to a welcoming community where you can belong and thrive.
Next Up: Your First Eight Weeks
Plan for success as you navigate college during your first eight weeks of class.