Do I need to have a dslr camera already before i enroll to a photography class?

I'm confused if i need to buy a camera before i enroll to a photography class or enroll first and buy later, for now i'm thinking for a Nikon D5000 and D3100, do this cameras good for newbies like me?

For a high school course no, they provide.

for most henry's and other camera classes probably yes, but you can just get a cheap $100 one at Walmart anyway.

if it is a traditional (film) course definitely no; you need a film camera.

You will have to ask your instructor. It may be that you need a 35 mm SLR for the first few semesters before you need a dSLR

The D3100 may have the most features you will need over the past three or four years, but before you spend a dime, talk to your instructor

A nice used Nikon 35 mm SLR with lens can cost under $150. The D3100 costs $700 with lens

No you donot require a DSLR camere at the time you commence your classes. Right now you can start with a high resolution and good quality optical zoom and IMAGE stabilization featured digital camere like Canon SX 20 IS.
Nokon camera D5000 AND D3100 rae also good to start with

IT depends on your classes. If they say yes then go with Nikon D3000 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera which really helps you.

* 10.2megapixel CCD sensor
* 11-point autofocus system,
* Fast response, Guide mode,
* 3-inch TFT,
* 3 fps continuous shooting allows you to capture fast-moving action at 3 frames per second

http://www.amazon.com/...002JCSV5I/