Ready to Start? Here’s How.

Applying to Trinity at THEARC is straightforward — there’s no application fee, and our admissions team is here to help you through every step.

How to Apply: Step by Step

  1. Complete Trinity’s free online application. There is no application fee.
  2. Submit your transcripts from high school and any prior college coursework.
  3. Contact the Admissions Office or Director Cristina Lynch to discuss your academic goals, program fit, and any questions you have before you apply.
  4. Once accepted, you’ll be connected with an advisor (Cristina Lynch for THEARC students) who will guide you through course selection and registration.
  5. Complete your FAFSA early to maximize your financial aid eligibility.
  6. Attend New Student Orientation — your first step into the Trinity community.

Apply Now — It’s Free

Admissions Office

The Admissions team is ready to help you get started.

What Our Students Say

“Trinity’s branch campus at THEARC fosters a culture of support and encouragement through caring professors and advisors. The flexible evening and weekend course offerings have been especially beneficial while balancing work, family, and pursuing my degree.”

— Javaylian McCoy, Spring 2026 Graduate — Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education

“Trinity Washington University became more than an institution to me; it became a lifeline. I am especially grateful to Dean Lynch at THEARC, whose attentiveness, intentional guidance, and belief in me never wavered. She was the advisor every student deserves.”

— Lawren McCoy — earned her AA in Early Childhood Education (2022) and BA in Community Education (2024) at Trinity; now pursuing her Master’s degree

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior college credits to apply?

No. Trinity at THEARC welcomes students who are starting college for the first time, as well as those returning after time away. If you have prior college credits, they may transfer — speak with Cristina Lynch to find out.

What if I’ve been out of school for many years?

Many of our students are returning to school after significant time away — some for decades. You’re in good company. Trinity offers academic support services, tutoring, and writing assistance through the Center for Student Success to help you get back up to speed.

Can I take classes online?

Yes. Classes at THEARC are offered in a mix of in-person, online, and hybrid formats. Talk to your advisor about which format works best for your schedule and learning style.

How long does it take to earn an Associate’s degree?

At the recommended pace of two courses per semester, it takes approximately 3½ years. However, depending on your work/life balance and academic capacity, you may complete requirements sooner. It’s truly tailored to you.

What happens after I graduate from THEARC?

All of your Associate’s degree credits transfer directly to a bachelor’s degree program at Trinity’s main campus in Northeast D.C. You’ll have 11 bachelor’s programs to choose from in the School of Professional and Graduate Studies. See the full list of bachelor’s programs.

Is there an application fee?

No. There is no fee to apply to Trinity. Start your application now.

Transferring to Trinity’s Main Campus

When you complete your Associate of Arts degree at THEARC, you can continue your education at Trinity’s main campus in Northeast D.C. Here’s how the transition works:

  1. Speak with your existing advisor to confirm your intended major at the bachelor’s degree level.
  2. Be aware that tuition costs will increase when transitioning to the main campus. Contact Enrollment Services to discuss your financial aid status and available funding options.
  3. Complete Trinity’s free online application. In the space provided, indicate that you are an existing Trinity student — the Office of Admissions will retrieve your Trinity transcripts directly.
  4. Once admitted to your bachelor’s program, you’ll receive a new advisor who will contact you about course selection and registration.
  5. Attend the School of Professional and Graduate Studies New Student Orientation.

Visit Us

Trinity at THEARC is located at:

1901 Mississippi Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20020

We are accessible via the Metro Green Line (Southern Avenue station).

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Portrait of Cristina Lynch

Meet Your Director

Cristina Lynch
Assistant Dean, School of Professional and Graduate Studies
Director, Trinity at THEARC

Cristina Lynch’s motto says it all: “Building Futures Today.” As Director of Trinity at THEARC, she brings almost two decades of higher education experience — all of it focused on student success — to the work of guiding adult learners from their first inquiry through graduation and beyond.

Before joining Trinity, Cristina served in multiple leadership roles at Hampton University, including Director of Upward Bound, Director of the Annual Fund, and Director of the Student Assessment Center. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Systems and Organizational Management and a Master of Arts in Community Agency Counseling, both from Hampton University.

At THEARC, Cristina serves as advisor, advocate, coach, mentor, and cheerleader for every student she works with. She’s known for being reachable, responsive, and genuinely invested in each student’s path. Her door — and her phone — are always open.

Contact Cristina:
Phone: (202) 884-9622
Email: lynchcr@trinitydc.edu