Message from the UC Dean

Dear Eagles,

“Arriving at one goal is the starting point to another” –John Dewey

Welcome to or welcome back to North Carolina Central University. My name is Zack Underwood, and I am the dean of University College.

Each year is the start of a new goal. To begin the 2025–2026 academic year, we want you to start with a goal in mind. You’ll receive a message from me once a month with tips for success.

University College can help with your goals. Here are three ways we can assist:

• Meet with your academic advisor (check your email for our walk-in hours)
• Take advantage of our 24/7 tutoring
• Make plans to work with our Writing and Speaking Studio in the fall semester

Early Fall Semester Deadlines

• August 18, 2025: First day of classes
• August 29, 2025: The drop/add period ends at noon; courses will be canceled for students who have not made satisfactory payment arrangements
• August 30, 2025: First home football game versus New Hampshire
• September 1, 2025: Labor Day observance (no class)
• September 2, 2025: First day for students to withdraw from a class with a grade of WC or from the university with a W grade (talk with your advisor if withdrawing is necessary)
• September 19, 2025: Last day to withdraw from the university with a prorated tuition and fee adjustment
• September 26, 2025: Wellness Day (No classes)

What Is University College?

The purpose of University College is to provide a means to enhance the successful transition and experiences during the first two years for all first-year, sophomore, and new transfer students (with less than 52 earned credit hours), with an intentional focus on student success.

We want you to take advantage of the resources in University College! All it takes is signing up or visiting. We are your first stop to pursue success. 

Sincerely,

Zack Underwood,
Dean of University College
919-530-5234 (Office)
919-695-1211 (Cell)
[email protected]