Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Program
In 1965, Alvin Community College (ACC) made history by becoming the first institution of higher education in the state of Texas to offer college programs to incarcerated individuals within the Texas Department of Corrections. This pioneering initiative was undertaken at the request of Dr. George Beto, who served as the Director of TDCJ at the time.
Our collaboration with the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) began in the early 1970s, initially taking place on both the UHCL campus and the ACC campus. This partnership was further expanded in 1991 to include the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, marking a significant milestone in providing incarcerated individuals with access to higher education opportunities. Through this enduring partnership, inmates within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice have been empowered to pursue and attain associate, bachelor's, and even master's degrees.
Alvin Community College has also been honored to be among the select group of 67 American colleges and universities chosen to participate in the Second Chance Pell pilot program. This program offers vital grant funds to incarcerated individuals seeking to pursue higher education, offering them an opportunity to transform their lives through learning.
Core Values
We support all students and staff as individuals; we are responsive, caring, inclusive, and welcoming; we value all members of the ACC family. We are a growing community that offers flexibility and innovation, responding to a wide array of community and workforce needs, all in a friendly atmosphere.
ACC-TDCJ Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide incarcerated individuals with access to high-quality post-secondary education and training opportunities that promote personal growth, skill development, and successful re-entry into society. We strive to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. By empowering our students with knowledge, skills, confidence, and self-advocacy, we aim to break the cycle of recidivism and promote a more just and equitable society.