Faculty Spotlight: Bernie Smiley
For more than two decades, College of the Mainland (COM) professor Bernie Smiley has been a familiar face and an influential force in the lives of COM students. This year the community recognized his impact once again. Smiley earned second place in The Daily News Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Professor, marking his second consecutive appearance among
Faculty Spotlight: Dalel Serda
Dalel Serda became a professor of English at College of the Mainland (COM) in Spring 2010. With a background that blends strategic communication and creative expression, she earned her Bachelor of Science in advertising from the University of Texas in 2001 and later completed her Master of Fine Arts in creative writing at the University
Student Spotlights
College of the Mainland has a long history of student success stories. This year, we’re spotlighting some accomplished graduates and current students to celebrate. Mario Garza Spring 2025 COM Graduate COM alumnus Mario Garza arrived at College of the Mainland as a driven student eager to move forward, but without a clear sense of direction.
COM Dual Credit Advantage & The Opening Doors Promise Scholarship
Earn college credit in high school through Dual Credit & Collegiate High School. Take free courses if you qualify for the FAST Program. Get Ahead in High School. Go Further in College Attend COM tuition-free for up to two years after high school with the Opening Doors Promise Scholarship* *Funding is contingent upon public donations
Expanding Programs At COM
In response to our communities’ growing and expansive learning needs, College of the Mainland is prioritizing innovative learning options to effectively prepare the workforce of the future. For every student looking to advance their education, from pursuing high school equivalency, workforce education, transferring to a four-year university or looking to add to their existing education,
Healthcare Careers
Start Your Healthcare Career at COM. Ready to make a difference? At College of the Mainland, we offer hands-on training for in-demand healthcare careers that put compassion into action. Whether you want to become a nurse, surgical technologist or medical assistant, COM provides the skills, certifications and support to launch your future in patient care.
Your Future Begins at COM: A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying to College of the Mainland
College of the Mainland (COM) is your launchpad to a brighter future—whether you’re preparing for university, starting a new career, or earning a promotion. With on-campus and online classes, dual credit for high school students, and even study abroad options, COM offers something for everyone at an affordable price. At COM, you’re more than just
COM Awarded $9 Million in Federal Funding for HSI Initiatives Through 2028
College of the Mainland (COM) has been selected for its third U.S. Department of Education Title V grant, bringing the combined grant total to $9 million. The latest grant awarded will fund the innovative project, “Semillas: Planting the Seeds for a Brighter Tomorrow,” aimed at enhancing educational outcomes for underrepresented students and strengthening student support
The COM 8-Week Advantage
Learning designed for student success. We believe you are meant to be bold and fly high. But we get it, life happens—work, family responsibilities and unforeseen circumstances. Navigating obstacles while trying to take multiple courses can quickly derail an entire 16-week semester. This is where the COM 8-week Advantage can help! Our 8-week sessions allow
Expanding Horizons: Featured Programs at COM
In response to our communities’ growing and expansive learning needs, College of the Mainland is prioritizing innovative learning options to effectively prepare the workforce of the future. For every student looking to advance their education, from pursuing high school equivalency, workforce education, transferring to a four-year university or looking to add to their existing education,