FAQs

MacDill classes are open to EVERYBODY. Military-affiliated students, however, have priority for seating per the Air Force memorandum authorizing HCC to offer classes on the base. The Center is a guest of the Air Force, and their requirements take priority in Center operations.

MacDill classes offer an accelerated, not abbreviated, format.

Regardless of whether the MacDill course covers eight weeks or four weekends, it has the same number of instructor/student in-class contact hours as a regular 16-week campus course. It also will cover the same course material except in a shorter time frame and at a faster pace.

ALL civilian students MUST have a criminal history background check with fingerprints. 

Please contact the MacDill Center for information as soon as you register by calling (813)259-6396. Students should request their pass not earlier than one week before the start of class.

The investigation process usually takes at minimum 3 weeks for completion. Completed background checks are valid for five years.

Base Pass: You must have an Air Force Base pass to attend MacDill classes. Due to Base security guidelines, this requires a favorable law enforcement background investigation with fingerprints for non-military students. You may not attend on-Base classes until this process is complete. Contact the MacDill Center upon registration for necessary instructions or if you have any related questions. You will present your Base pass to the security police at the gate each time you come to class.  You will need to request a new pass from the MacDill Center each term you attend on-Base classes. 

To get a Base pass you MUST HAVE your background investigation to include fingerprint card (regardless of previous access), driver’s license, valid vehicle registration and current proof of insurance. 

The BEST time to pick up your pass is after 4:00pm.

The Visitor Reception Center is located on the right just prior to the Dale Mabry gate. It is open from 6:00am to 6:00pm, Monday through Sunday, (CLOSED HOLIDAYS), but there is normally a 30-minute minimum wait for service before 4:00pm.  Do not wait until the first day of classes to pick up your pass; you will be late for class.

EACH session attended requires a NEW Base access pass. 

Students should call the MacDill Center to request their pass not earlier than one week before the start of class. When the call is received, registration verification for a pass will be provided to the Air Force. Requests received will be available the following day. The MacDill office is closed on Fridays.

ALL vehicles are entering the Base are subject to search.