Why DMACC
Why DMACC is the place for you
We invite you to get to know us. Use the navigation links and the boxes below to see why DMACC is a great fit for you.
About Greater Des Moines and Central Iowa Area
Our vibrant, growing communities offer many opportunities
About DMACC
DMACC is the largest community college in Iowa, serving Central Iowa since 1966. We have 500+ faculty and staff dedicated providing the most immersive, progressive, and innovative learning experience for our students.
We're proud to provide one of the best opportunities for educational advancement in the state. Our student body is made up of traditional students as well as professionals from a multitude of backgrounds.
We offer the lowest tuition and fees in the state with more than 220 programs of study. Our credit students can graduate with an associates degree, college diploma or certificate. With courses available online or face-to-face, students can easily plan a class schedule that fits their needs.
With an average class size of 18 students to 1 faculty member, students get a level of assistance that may not be possible at other institutions.
We offer learning opportunities through our six campuses and six learning centers.
Campuses in Greater Des Moines
Ankeny Campus
With more than 15,000 students, this is our largest campus. Campus features include
a new student and rec center complex, 20 instructional buildings, and privately owned
student housing.
Des Moines Campus
Part of Downtown Des Moines, this is the most diverse campus in Iowa with students
from more than 75 countries around the globe.
West Des Moines Campus
Nestled in Des Moines' western suburbs, this is where high tech and innovation come
together.
Campuses in Local Communities
Boone Campus
A traditional college setting with newly expanded on-campus housing, award winning
faculty in a beautiful midwestern community, Boone Campus is home to DMACC's nine
Intercollegiate NJCAA Division II Athletics teams. Go Bears!
Carroll Campus
Students don't need to leave to complete a four-year degree. Along with our normal
credit and high school programming, Carroll Campus offers several 2+2 partnerships
with state universities.
Newton Campus
This campus brings those just out of reach of our Eastern suburbs all that DMACC offers.
Newton Campus offers credit programs including general studies, culinary arts classes,
and is home to the only court reporting program in the state.
Six learning centers throughout our district
Ames, Perry, and Southridge centers offer credit and non-credit classes as well as Career Academies, where high school students can earn dual credit through our programs.
Capitol Center an extension of our Urban Campus, offers Nursing and Early Childhood Education programs.
Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families helps those looking for educational, job training and career opportunities through workforce training services.
Transportation Institute is one of the premier truck driver training programs in Iowa, providing commercial vehicle operator training and retraining.
Learn more about DMACC
About Greater Des Moines and Central Iowa
Top 5 Reasons to live in Des Moines and Central Iowa
1. Low Cost of Living
Iowa ranks #3 in Lowest Cost of Living and Housing Affordability according to US News Best States Ranking
2. Great Education
Iowa ranks #5 in Best Place to Get an Education according to US News Best States Ranking
3. Four Seasons
Enjoy lazy summers, crisp colorful autumns, fluffy winter snowflakes, and green, lush springs. Des Moines lets you experience it all.
4. No Traffic Jams
With a population of around 1/4 million, we have no rush hours. You are just a few short hours away from our neighboring states, since Des Moines is at the intersection of the two major Interstates (I-35 and I-80).
5. There's a lot to do
Check some of what Central Iowa has to offer:
From Warhol to Wicked, Greater Des Moines has a vibrant arts scene as well as world class performances and concerts.
Central Iowa is filled with top ranked restaurants. Many areas have concentrated social hubs that include places to eat, shop, socialize, network, volunteer, and more. Here are just a few:
Central Iowa is home to great education. Iowa ranks #5 in the US according to US News Best States Ranking. Check out some of the K-12 schools.
- Ankeny Schools
- Des Moines Schools
- Johnston Schools
- Saydel Schools
- Urbandale Schools
- West Des Moines Schools
- Waukee Schools
Central Iowa is also home to many public and private colleges and universities. Here are just a few.
Greater Des Moines is home to many cultural festivals throughout the year. Here are some you won't want to miss.
Enjoy over 600 miles of Trails, parks, greenspaces, fishing and more. Learn more about our parks.
Ankeny - over 90 miles of paved trails, 2 aquatic centers, numerous neighborhood parks, Miracle league, and more.
Des Moines - 63 miles of paved and 18 miles of nature trails, 75 parks, lakes, parks, ponds, and rec leagues.
State Parks & Beaches - check out Iowa's state parks, beaches, and recreational areas.
Des Moines is home to many professional sports teams representing Des Moines and the state of Iowa.