The Cohort Program
Your student will take all courses with a group of 25 students.
Information for Families
About the College
Dougherty Family College (DFC) is a private and affordable 2-year college at the University of St. Thomas. Based on the Minneapolis campus, DFC supports academically driven students while they pursue an associate degree. We provide students with personal, academic and financial support throughout the course of their studies. We prepare students for the future by growing their professional network through internships, and by guiding them through transferring to a 4-year (Bachelor’s) degree program.
Our Family Newsletter (PDF) provides an inside glimpse into what is happening at DFC.
One Family's Journey to DFC
Dougherty Family College graduate Jalyn, and her mom, share their story. Hear from them on how the financial, academic and personal support provided by DFC took away the stress of college and provide a community to thrive in.
Our Mission
The Mission of Dougherty Family College
Dougherty Family College at the University of St. Thomas offers a liberal arts associate degree program combining rigorous academics with comprehensive and culturally sustaining supports that prepare scholars to navigate and overcome social and financial barriers on their path to a bachelor’s degree.
Eliminating structural gaps in the education system. Developing leaders of the future.
What Makes DFC unique?
Easing the High School Transition
We will help your student integrate into the life and culture of Dougherty Family College and the University of St. Thomas. Starting with our Summer Enrichment Program; your student's orientation to everything they’ll need to know about college. We’ll help your student understand the differences between high school and college classes. Their coursework in the fall will include a seminar called the First-Year Experience, which will teach incoming students all they need to know about navigating life in college and beyond.
Setting Your Student Up for Success
We’ll make sure your student has all the tools they need to be a successful student, from free laptops and textbooks to transportation and meals. Our internship program and strong mentoring relationships will help your student succeed in college and their career.
Providing Academic Structure
At DFC, your student will be assigned a cohort, a group of about 25 students that will take all their classes together. Your student will build a strong sense of belonging and community with their peers. Faculty and staff mentors will assist in selecting classes each semester.
Caring for the Whole Person
We have a wealth of campus resources to offer. Classes are taught by dedicated faculty members who are mentors as well as scholars. Intensive leadership training will help your student succeed in college and, ultimately, their career. Students will receive one-on-one advising and mentorship, helping them get prepared to make a difference in creating a more ethical and just society.
Easing the High School Transition
Easing the High School Transition
We will help your student integrate into the life and culture of Dougherty Family College and the University of St. Thomas. Starting with our Summer Enrichment Program; your student's orientation to everything they’ll need to know about college. We’ll help your student understand the differences between high school and college classes. Their coursework in the fall will include a seminar called the First-Year Experience, which will teach incoming students all they need to know about navigating life in college and beyond.
Setting Your Student Up for Success
Setting Your Student Up for Success
We’ll make sure your student has all the tools they need to be a successful student, from free laptops and textbooks to transportation and meals. Our internship program and strong mentoring relationships will help your student succeed in college and their career.
Providing Academic Structure
Providing Academic Structure
At DFC, your student will be assigned a cohort, a group of about 25 students that will take all their classes together. Your student will build a strong sense of belonging and community with their peers. Faculty and staff mentors will assist in selecting classes each semester.
Caring for the Whole Person
Caring for the Whole Person
We have a wealth of campus resources to offer. Classes are taught by dedicated faculty members who are mentors as well as scholars. Intensive leadership training will help your student succeed in college and, ultimately, their career. Students will receive one-on-one advising and mentorship, helping them get prepared to make a difference in creating a more ethical and just society.
What DFC Offers and Is It Right For You?
Hear from Dean Buffy Smith and two alumni of Dougherty Family College, Kong and Rose, as they talk through the benefits of attending DFC and what makes DFC unique!
Cheyene's Journey
DFC Student Testimonial
In an interview with Native Roots Radio, Dean Dr. Buffy Smith and Dougherty Family College graduate '22, Cheyene Bialke, discuss the benefits of DFC. Hear from Cheyene about the impact DFC has had on her educational experience, and the opportunities that helped shape her path to success. Interview starts at 19:10 mark.
Who Are Our Students?
DFC students display commitment to achieving educational goals. They are interested in getting a 4-year (Bachelor’s) degree after DFC and demonstrate a high level of financial need.
Ways We Support our Students
DFC provides a wide range of academic, economic and personal support for students.
- Free Meals
- Professional Internship Program
- Tutoring and mentoring services
- Free laptops
- Free Transportation
- Free textbooks
Tuition & Financial Aid
A significant amount of financial aid is available through federal and state funding and through the support of generous donors. Your student's cost will depend on your family need, determined when they apply for financial aid (FAFSA or Minnesota Dream Act).
We’ll give your student the support needed to succeed
Unique-to-DFC Opportunities
At Dougherty Family College, your student will have access to many support resources, including mentors, tutors, a transfer counselor, life skills counselor and more.
Paid Internships
Your student will build their resume and professional networks
Transition to a 4-year Degree
DFC provides your student with a clear pathway to a bachelor’s degree
Get to know some of our DFC educators.
Meet Our Faculty
The DFC and St. Thomas Community
Students become a Tommie the first day they start class at DFC. They’re a part of the bigger University of St. Thomas community, and have access to all facilities on both campuses.
Contact Us
Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions!
Friends & Loved Ones Event
Don't worry, we haven’t forgotten the supporters in your student's life! The Family & Loved Ones event, typically held during Summer Enrichment program, is an opportunity to meet DFC leadership, faculty, staff, students and other families with students at DFC.
You can view a recording of the 2024 Friends & Loved Ones event on YouTube.