It was founded in 1946 as an extension of the University of Illinois; it has grown into an independent college offering courses in 76 areas of study.

[2] These include college transfer, occupational degrees and certificates, re-training, skill development, customized training and areas of special interest.

In 2006 the Downtown Center moved to the Job Training Partnership facility at 407 North Franklin Street.

[5][6] In September 2024, DACC President Stephen Nacco was suspended by the Board of Trustees, pending possible firing.

Out-of-district students pay $220.00 per credit hour,[10] with the exception of a designated 7-county area in Indiana, covering Vermillion, Parke, Fountain, Warren, Tippecanoe, Benton and Montgomery counties; students in these counties pay $187.50 per credit hour.

[11] As of July 1, 1984, in-district students aged 60 or older pay a tuition rate of $1 per credit hour, as well as applicable course fees.