Explore ACC Austin TX
Education Opportunities in the Heart of Texas
Austin Community College (ACC) stands as a cornerstone of higher education in Texas's capital city. This public institution offers a diverse array of academic and career programs to meet the needs of students from all walks of life. With over 100 programs across 10 areas of study, ACC provides affordable pathways to associate degrees, career certificates, and university transfer credits.
ACC's commitment to accessibility extends beyond its physical campuses. The college offers robust online learning options, allowing students to pursue their educational goals remotely. This flexibility is particularly valuable for working adults and those with other commitments.
Students at ACC benefit from a supportive learning environment and comprehensive resources. The college's focus on career readiness and continuing education ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce or further academic pursuits. Whether seeking a quick entry into a new career or laying the foundation for a bachelor's degree, ACC offers a practical and cost-effective solution for Austin residents and beyond.
Enrollment Process
Austin Community College offers a straightforward enrollment process for new and returning students. Key steps include submitting an application, fulfilling admission requirements, and registering for classes by important deadlines.
Admission Requirements
New students must complete an ACC application online or in person. Applicants need to provide proof of high school graduation or equivalent. Official transcripts from previously attended colleges are required for transfer students. Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment scores or exemptions must be submitted. Meningitis vaccination documentation is mandatory for students under 22.
Returning students who have not enrolled in the past year should reapply. They may need to update their residency information and provide any new transcripts.
Registration Support
ACC offers several resources to help students register for classes. Academic advisors assist with course selection and degree planning. The Admissions and Enrollment Office provides support for submitting required documentation.
Students can register online through ACC's self-service portal. In-person registration assistance is available at campus Admissions offices. New students attend orientation sessions to learn about ACC resources and registration procedures.
Important Dates
ACC operates on a semester system with fall, spring, and summer terms. Key enrollment dates include:
Application deadlines: Typically 2-3 weeks before classes start
Registration periods: Open several months before each semester
Payment deadlines: Usually about 1 week before classes begin
Add/Drop periods: First week of classes
Specific dates vary by semester and are published on ACC's academic calendar. Students should check for priority registration periods based on their enrollment status. Meeting early deadlines increases chances of getting desired classes.
Programs and Degrees
Austin Community College offers a diverse array of academic pathways to suit various educational goals and career aspirations. Students can choose from associate degrees, career certificates, and university transfer options, with clear program maps to guide their journey.
Associate Degrees
ACC provides over 100 associate degree programs across 10 areas of study. These two-year degrees prepare students for entry-level positions or further education. Popular options include:
• Associate of Arts (A.A.) • Associate of Science (A.S.) • Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
Each degree requires 60-66 credit hours of coursework. A.A. and A.S. degrees are designed for university transfer, while A.A.S. degrees focus on career-ready skills.
Career Certificates
For students seeking quick entry into the workforce, ACC offers career certificates in high-demand fields. These programs typically take 6-18 months to complete.
Certificate options include:
• IT and cybersecurity • Healthcare • Culinary arts • Advanced manufacturing
Many certificates can be applied toward associate degrees, allowing students to build on their education over time.
Program Maps
ACC provides clear program maps for each degree and certificate. These maps outline:
• Required courses • Recommended course sequence • Career opportunities • Transfer pathways (if applicable)
Program maps help students stay on track and complete their chosen program efficiently. They also highlight important milestones and potential obstacles to success.
University Transfer
ACC's university transfer programs allow students to complete the first two years of a bachelor's degree at a fraction of the cost. Key features include:
• Guaranteed transfer agreements with Texas universities • Core curriculum aligned with state requirements • Academic advising for smooth transitions
Popular transfer pathways include business, engineering, and liberal arts. Students can save thousands on tuition while preparing for upper-division coursework.
Online Learning
ACC Online expands access to education through flexible, web-based courses. Benefits of online learning at ACC include:
• Fully online degrees and certificates • Hybrid options combining online and in-person instruction • 24/7 access to course materials • Free online tutoring support
Online programs maintain the same quality and rigor as on-campus offerings, with credits that readily transfer to other institutions.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Austin Community College offers affordable education options with various financial assistance programs. Students can access scholarships, grants, loans, and payment plans to manage costs effectively.
Scholarships and Grants
ACC provides numerous scholarship opportunities for students. The ACC Foundation awards over $1 million annually in scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, and specific fields of study. Grants, such as the Pell Grant and Texas Public Education Grant, are available to eligible students. These funds do not require repayment, making them valuable resources for reducing educational expenses.
ACC also participates in the Texas Grant program, which assists academically prepared high school graduates with financial need. Students can apply for institutional scholarships through a single application process, simplifying the search for financial support.
Loans and Payment Plan
Federal student loans are accessible to ACC students who qualify. These include Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, which offer lower interest rates compared to private loans. Parent PLUS Loans are another option for dependent students.
ACC offers a flexible payment plan allowing students to divide tuition into manageable installments. This interest-free option helps spread costs over the semester, easing the financial burden. Students can enroll in the payment plan through their ACC account.
Emergency Funds
ACC maintains an emergency fund to assist students facing unexpected financial hardships. These funds can help with short-term expenses like textbooks, transportation, or urgent living costs that might otherwise interrupt a student's education.
To access emergency funds, students typically need to demonstrate financial need and explain their situation to the financial aid office. The college aims to provide rapid assistance to keep students on track with their studies.
Financial Aid Information
The financial aid process at ACC starts with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Priority deadlines ensure timely processing, with May 1 set for fall classes. However, ACC processes applications year-round, allowing students to receive aid even for current classes.
ACC's cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, books, supplies, transportation, and living expenses. For the 2024-25 academic year, in-district Texas residents pay $67 per credit hour. Out-of-district Texas residents pay an additional $201 fee per credit hour.
Financial aid advisors are available to guide students through the application process and explain various aid options. ACC encourages all students to explore financial aid opportunities, regardless of their financial situation.
Student Resources
Austin Community College offers comprehensive support services to help students succeed academically and professionally. These resources cover academic guidance, career development, testing services, and personal assistance.
Academic Advising
ACC's Academic Advising team provides personalized guidance to students throughout their academic journey. Advisors help with course selection, degree planning, and navigating college policies. They offer both in-person and virtual appointments to accommodate diverse student needs.
Advisors assist in creating individualized degree plans aligned with students' goals and transfer requirements. They also provide information on academic programs, credit transfer, and graduation requirements. Students can access online tools like DegreeWorks to track their progress and plan future semesters.
Career Services
The Career Services department equips students with tools for career exploration and job search success. They offer resume reviews, interview preparation, and job search strategies. Career counselors help students explore potential career paths aligned with their interests and skills.
ACC hosts job fairs and networking events, connecting students with local employers. The online job board lists internships and employment opportunities. Career Services also provides assessments to help students identify their strengths and suitable career options.
Testing Center
ACC's Testing Center administers a variety of exams for students and community members. These include placement tests, course exams, and standardized tests. The center offers both computer-based and paper-pencil testing options.
Students can take the Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA) for course placement. The center also proctors exams for distance learning courses. Specialized tests like CLEP and DSST allow students to earn college credit for prior knowledge.
Student Support
ACC provides comprehensive support services to address students' personal and academic needs. The college offers counseling services for mental health and personal issues. Food pantries are available on multiple campuses to address food insecurity.
The college provides emergency funds to help students facing financial crises. Childcare assistance programs support student parents. ACC also offers resources for veterans, students with disabilities, and first-generation college students.
ESOL Testing
ACC conducts English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) testing to assess non-native English speakers' language proficiency. The ESOL placement test evaluates reading, writing, and listening skills. Results determine appropriate course placement in ACC's ESOL program.
ESOL testing is available at multiple ACC campuses. Students can schedule appointments online or by contacting the Testing Center. ACC offers free ESOL classes to help students improve their English language skills for academic and professional success.
Campus Life
ACC Austin offers a vibrant campus life experience for students. The college fosters a welcoming environment that promotes personal growth, community engagement, and overall well-being.
Events and Activities
ACC hosts a wide range of events throughout the year. Student organizations hold regular meetings and social gatherings across campuses. The Office of Student Life coordinates activities like game nights, movie screenings, and cultural celebrations.
Intramural sports provide opportunities for friendly competition. Students can join teams for basketball, soccer, and volleyball. These games typically take place at the Highland Campus and other ACC locations.
ACC also organizes career fairs, bringing employers to campus. These events help students explore job opportunities and network with professionals in their fields of interest.
Health and Wellness
ACC prioritizes student health and wellness through various services. The college offers counseling services to support mental health. Licensed counselors are available for confidential consultations on personal, academic, and career concerns.
On-campus health clinics provide basic medical care and health education. Services include immunizations, health screenings, and wellness workshops.
ACC promotes physical fitness through its recreation facilities. The Highland Campus features a modern fitness center equipped with cardio machines and weights. Group exercise classes like yoga and Zumba are offered regularly.
Sustainability Initiatives
ACC is committed to environmental sustainability. The college implements green practices across its campuses in Central Texas. Solar panels on building rooftops generate clean energy, reducing the college's carbon footprint.
Recycling stations are strategically placed throughout ACC facilities. Students and staff are encouraged to properly sort recyclables, compostables, and landfill waste.
ACC's sustainability efforts extend to transportation. Bike racks and electric vehicle charging stations are available at multiple campuses. The college also promotes the use of public transportation, offering discounted bus passes to students.
Green spaces on campus provide areas for relaxation and outdoor study. These spaces incorporate native plants, requiring less water and maintenance.
Continuing Education and Advancement
ACC Austin offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth through its Continuing Education division. These programs cater to diverse needs, from career advancement to skill enhancement and income improvement.
Professional Development
ACC's Continuing Education division provides a variety of career-focused certificate programs. These programs are designed to help students quickly obtain or upgrade their jobs, typically within six months or less. Career certificates are available in fields such as accounting, healthcare, and technology.
Program maps guide students through their chosen career path. These maps outline the courses needed to complete a certificate or degree, ensuring students stay on track and achieve their goals efficiently.
The college also offers a free 4-week course called "Strategies for Today's Jobs." This program teaches valuable skills for the modern job market, including resume writing and interview techniques.
Skill Enhancement
ACC provides numerous opportunities for skill enhancement across various disciplines. Students can choose from a wide range of courses to improve their knowledge and abilities in specific areas.
Community Education courses offer personal enrichment opportunities. These classes cover diverse topics, allowing students to explore new interests or hobbies.
For those looking to advance their careers, Personal and Professional Development courses focus on building essential workplace skills. These include leadership, communication, and project management.
ACC's Continuing Education courses are designed to be flexible, accommodating busy schedules and diverse learning needs.
Income Improvement Strategies
ACC's programs are tailored to help students boost their earning potential. By acquiring in-demand skills and certifications, graduates can position themselves for higher-paying jobs or promotions.
Career-focused certificate programs offer a quick path to new job opportunities. These programs are aligned with industry needs, ensuring graduates have relevant, marketable skills.
ACC's Career Services department provides resources to help students capitalize on their new skills. They offer job search assistance, resume reviews, and interview preparation.
Continuing Education courses allow professionals to stay current in their fields, maintaining their competitive edge in the job market. This ongoing learning can lead to increased job security and income growth opportunities.
Important Policies and Information
Austin Community College (ACC) maintains key academic policies and schedules to guide students through their educational journey. These include detailed academic calendars and clearly defined semester dates to help students plan their coursework effectively.
Academic Calendars
ACC publishes comprehensive academic calendars for each school year. These calendars outline important dates such as:
Registration periods
First and last days of classes
Holidays and breaks
Final exam schedules
Withdrawal deadlines
Grade submission deadlines
Students can access the calendars on ACC's website. The calendars are typically released well in advance, allowing students to plan their schedules accordingly.
Semesters and Session Dates
ACC operates on a semester system with multiple sessions throughout the year. The main semesters are:
Fall (August - December)
Spring (January - May)
Summer (May/June - August)
Within these semesters, ACC offers various session lengths:
16-week sessions (full semester)
14-week sessions
12-week sessions
8-week sessions
5-week sessions (primarily in summer)
This flexible structure allows students to choose course schedules that best fit their needs and preferences. Session start and end dates are clearly listed in the academic calendar.
