What would be a good entry level dslr for a student on a budget?

I'm beginning an arts program at college in the fall and will have few photography classes, I have always enjoyed photography as a hobby as well, but only owned cheap P&S cameras and played around with friend's digital slrs.

I only have around $400 to spend on it, so I'm looking at used entry-level digital slrs, I need a versatile camera that can fit my class needs, and one that can grow with me as I explore photography more seriously as a hobby. (Until I can afford to upgrade in a few years)

I have been looking at used Nikons online, since I've used and liked the brand before, the D40x with a basic lense (18-55) seems like it could be a good fit

What camera's would you recommend for someone with my budget and needs?
Would a D40x be the best choice? Or because of its age will it be too far behind in technology etc?
I only have experience with Nikon, but would another brand give me more "bang for my buck"?

Any opinions or recommendations are really appreciated!

I say go with the D40. That is what I started out with.

If you could find a Nikon D1 in good working condition, that camera is fully manual and will take nearly all Nikor Lens even back to the 1970's. The only shortcoming is 2 mega pixel resolution, if you consider that a shortcoming.

I don't want to rain on your parade but DSLR photography isn't for people on tight budgets. You'd be much happier with a good point and shoot until you have more in the kitty, a lot more.