Frequently Asked Questions - Current Students

I have no idea what program or major I should pursue. Are there services to help me decide on a program or major?

Yes, DMACC provides many services to assist students in selecting a major. These services are detailed below and include the Career & Transfer Resource Center, advisors, counselors, and a career planning course.

The Career Center is an excellent place to find information on careers, majors, and transfer schools. The CTRC is located on the Ankeny campus; other campuses provide similar resources through the Counseling and Advising Offices. The CTRC is open to all students on a walk-in basis, but appointments are encouraged. The CTRC also has information online regarding "Steps for Choosing a Major".

Students who have career and/or transfer goals in mind may wish to visit with an advisor. Advisors are available to help you determine the best major for your career or transfer goals, assist you in using CTRC resources, and help you gather more information.

Students who are undecided about their career goals should visit with a counselor. DMACC counselors can assist you in identifying a career path that will fit with your skills, interests, and personality. Counselors may review your background and experience, talk with you about interests, offer career inventories, acquaint you with the CTRC, provide numerous resources, and assist you in setting goals.

DMACC also offers a one-credit Career Exploration course (SDV130). This is an elective course which provides more in-depth exploration of options.

What happens if I drop below full-time status?

DMACC welcomes students to attend classes on a part-time basis, but there are many individual circumstances you need to consider before changing your enrollment status. Your financial aid, insurance coverage, and/or outside funding could be affected if you drop below full-time status.

It is important to verify how you will be affected before making the decision to change your enrollment status. Students receiving financial aid should check with the Financial Aid Office. Students covered under a parent's insurance plan should check with the parent or insurance company. International students should check with their International Advisor. Students who are being supported by outside agencies or programs should verify enrollment requirements with the agency providing funding. It is also a good idea to check with your program advisor or program chairperson to ensure the program can be completed on a part-time basis. Dropping below full-time status will usually lengthen the amount of time it takes you to complete your program of study.

How can I get into a class that is full?

Some courses offer a waitlist. The process is outlined on DMACC’s Waitlist webpage.

How can I find out what classes I have left to complete my degree?

One resource that aids students in determining what degree requirements have been met and what requirements still need to be fulfilled is called a degree audit. An audit compares the courses in your academic record to the courses required to graduate from your program of study and students can generate a degree audit in the myDMACC using the DegreeWorks tool.

I think I'm ready to graduate. What do I need to do?

First, it is important to plan ahead. Part of the planning process includes taking steps to ensure you understand and meet all graduation requirements and deadlines. Students who do not plan ahead often experience a delay in graduation because of unmet degree requirements or missed deadlines. Therefore, you are encouraged to meet with an advisor the semester before you intend to graduate. An advisor can confirm which courses you need to earn your degree and explain graduation processes and deadlines. All graduating students must submit an Application for Graduation by the specified deadline date. Please review the Application for Graduation & Commencement web page for deadlines and additional information.

I am experiencing difficulties in class(es). What should I do?

It is important to utilize all of the resources that are available to you. DMACC is committed to student success and provides many wonderful resources at no additional charge to our students. Academic resources include: your instructor(s), the Academic Achievement Center, and Tutoring.

If you are struggling in class(es), a good first step is to visit with your instructor(s). Instructors can provide feedback and offer guidance. They have direct access to your work and may have insight into the specific concepts or areas that are causing your struggles.

The Academic Achievement Center (AAC) is an excellent resource for students who need academic assistance outside of the classroom. The AAC is staffed with instructors who specialize in a variety of subject areas. AAC instructors can assess your skill level and assist you in the learning process. AAC instructors often conduct workshops on test anxiety, test taking skills, note taking skills, study skills, gearing up for finite math, time management, and other relevant topics. AAC instructors are also available to assist students with these issues on an individual basis.

Tutoring services are available to students who need additional assistance in a particular class. Tutors can be scheduled on a one-on-one or group basis.

If you believe your difficulties stem from personal issues, you are encouraged to meet with one of our counselors. Symptoms of personal issues might include difficulty concentrating, problems with class attendance, lack of confidence, anxiety, etc.

When do I register for classes for the next semester?

Registration dates vary. Please check the Registration webpage or the credit course schedule for specific dates. We also encourage students to meet with an advisor prior to or during registration for classes. An advisor can check your progress and offer guidance on course selection.

How do I change my major or program of study?

To change your program of study, request a Program Change Form from the Admissions Office at 515-965-7337 or admissions@dmacc.edu. The Admissions Office will process your request and notify you of your admission status.

What does it mean if I am on "academic probation"?

If you are on academic probation it means your cumulative GPA is below 2.0. In order to achieve good academic standing at DMACC your cumulative GPA must be 2.0 or higher. You are encouraged to meet with an advisor or counselor to discuss your situation and to find strategies that will help you achieve good academic status.

Students who have been placed on academic probation must earn at least a 2.0 semester GPA to avoid being placed on "conditional enrollment". A student who is placed on conditional enrollment must meet with a counselor before registering for future classes. You are encouraged to review our Scholastic Standards for more detailed information about these academic policies.

Can I take a class at another college this summer (or any semester) and transfer it back to DMACC?

Yes, it is possible to transfer credits from another college. Before choosing to take a class at another college it is important to contact our Credentials Office at 515-964-6644 or credentials@dmacc.edu to verify how the course will transfer to DMACC. The Credentials Office will need to know where you plan to take the course as well as the course number and the course title. Please plan ahead because the Credentials Evaluator will likely need to research the course before providing you with a definitive answer.

To transfer credit earned at another college, students must request that a transcript bearing the official seal and signature of the official in charge of the records be sent directly to the DMACC Admissions Office by each college previously attended. Upon receipt, the transcript will be forwarded to the Credentials Office for evaluation.

Refer to our Transfer Credit Policy for more information.