The Austin Community College Board of Trustees adopted this policy on February 13, 1973, and amended it on March 4, 1974, September 2, 1975, January 18, 1982, September 24, 1984, and February 3, 1997.

I-21. Purpose of the College -- Mission

Austin Community College operates on the belief that open access to quality postsecondary educational experiences is vital in a rapidly changing democratic society. Therefore, the College exists to provide such educational opportunities to all the people of the Austin Community College service area. Hence, Austin Community College maintains an "open door" admissions policy, offers a comprehensive variety of postsecondary educational programs, and actively seeks to eliminate barriers in the educational process.

The legal purpose of the Austin Community College is prescribed by the Texas Legislature.

1. Technical programs up to two years in length leading to associate degrees or certificates;
2. Vocational programs leading directly to employment in semiskilled and skilled occupations;
3. Freshman and sophomore courses in arts and sciences;
4. Continuing adult education for occupational or cultural upgrading;
5. Compensatory education programs designed to fulfill the commitment of an admissions policy allowing the enrollment of disadvantaged students;
6. A continuing program of counseling and guidance designed to assist students in achieving their individual goals; and
7. Such other purposes as may be prescribed by the Coordinating Board, Texas College and University System, or local governing boards, in the best interest of postsecondary education in Texas.

Austin Community College offers the following types of programs, services, and instruction to fulfill its purpose and to satisfy state law for public junior and community colleges:

1. Student-centered instruction that seeks to aid students in their educational endeavors while demanding quality performance.
2. Vocational and technical programs of varying lengths leading to certificates or degrees.
3. Freshman- and sophomore-level academic courses leading to an associate degree or serving as the base of a baccalaureate degree program at a four-year institution.
4. Continuing adult education for academic, occupational, professional, and cultural enhancement.
5. Special instructional programs and tutorial service to assist underprepared students and others who wish special assistance to achieve their educational goals.
6. A continuing program of counseling and advising designed to assist students in achieving their individual educational and occupational goals.
7. A program of library, media, and testing services to support instruction.
8. Contracted instructional programs and services for area employers that promote economic development.

The content of this page is the responsibility of Dr. Carol Nasworthy, Chair of the Board of Trustees. It was last updated on May 22, 1997.