Older adults learning how to use computers in class

Lifelong Learning for Adults Ages 50+

Lifelong Learning at College of DuPage incorporates the best of what enrichment has to offer at any age. We offer a mix of courses, workshops, seminars and lectures designed especially for adults 50 and older, in a wide variety of topic areas. A reduced senior rate applies for participants 55 and over. Come join us - new courses begin each week.

Upcoming Courses

Click each subject below to learn about upcoming courses.

Constructs of Power: The Foundation of Christianity and the Catholic Church

This new series looks at the forces that shaped our civilization and examines how Christianity grew from a small, persecuted group in the Roman Empire into a major influence. By distinguishing between historical facts and the stories institutions tell about themselves, we’ll challenge some common assumptions about ‘Western civilization.’ We’ll explore how religious mythology, institutional deceptions, and power structures developed over time—and how these same forces contributed to building the modern world. Instructor: Marcus Sanghera 

Mondays, March 30 to May 18 
1 to 3 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-046, $189, Lifelong Learner $149 
On campus in Glen Ellyn 

Legendary Americans 

Examine the lives of legendary heroes and villains from America’s past. Explore how legends develop and learn to distinguish between legends and heroes, fact and fiction. Using recent historiography, we’ll analyze the development of legends, including the stories of Benedict Arnold, Davy Crockett, George Custer, Sitting Bull, Nellie Bly, Amelia Earhart, Joseph McCarthy and Annie Oakley. Instructor: Kathy Mullin 

Wednesdays, Jan. 21 to March 11 
1 to 3 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-003, $189, Lifelong Learner $149 
Addison Center 

Thursdays, Jan. 22 to March 12 
9:30 to 11:30 a.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-004, $189, Lifelong Learner $149 
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Logistics of Visiting Our National Parks 

Join U.S. National Park expert David Kroese as he shares his best tips for planning visits to our national parks, including access, lodging, transportation, activities, seasonal limitations and more. Participants are encouraged to submit questions about a specific park in advance for inclusion in class content. 

Thursday, Jan. 15 
10 a.m. to noon 
CEHUMNT-0001-021, $29, Lifelong Learner $19 
Virtual classroom

The Rock ’n’ Roll Music Series: From “Heartbreak Hotel” to “Uptown Girl” 

Instructor Gary Wenstrup shares the history and music of the biggest music acts of the 1960s and 1970s. Each session will be a multimedia exploration of two or more iconic superstars. Choose one session or enjoy the entire series! 

Classes are held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on campus in Glen Ellyn. 

  • The Rolling Stones and The Beatles Abbey Road 
    Tuesday, Jan. 27 
    CEHUMNT-0001-072, $29, Lifelong Learner $19 
  • Elvis Presley and The Beach Boys 
    Tuesday, Feb. 3 
    CEHUMNT-0001-073, $29, Lifelong Learner $19 
  • George Harrison and Willie Nelson 
    Tuesday, Feb. 24 
    CEHUMNT-0001-074, $29, Lifelong Learner $19

The Sweet Life: A Buzz-Worthy Look into the World of the Honey Bees 

Take a delightful journey into the fascinating world of honeybees, led by a beekeeper with more than four decades of experience! Explore the secret lives of these industrious little creatures, uncovering how they create the delicious honey we all love. From the queen bee’s royal duties to the amazing teamwork of the worker bees, we’ll learn about their incredible communication, their vital role in our ecosystem and simple ways we can help them thrive. Instructor: Larry Krengel 

Friday, Jan. 16 
10 to 11:30 a.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-402, $29, Lifelong Learner $19 
Virtual classroom

Talking Points 

This discussion group class mimics the style and form of the public affairs television program “Firing Line.” Explore intriguing weekly questions on a variety of current subjects, issues and events including philosophy, ethics, politics, power, government, science, medicine, technology, the arts, history and economics. Week one’s question is: “The ethics of AI: Who decides?” Class participation is highly encouraged. Instructor: Marcus Sanghera 

Thursdays, Jan. 29 to March 19 
1 to 3 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-043, $189, Lifelong Learner $149
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Wonders of Webb: Exploring the Universe with James Webb Space Telescope 

The James Webb Space Telescope has opened new vistas of the Universe for astronomers to explore. Join us as we examine the remarkable discoveries made possible by this revolutionary instrument. Instructor: James Kovac 

Wednesday, Jan. 14
1 to 2:30 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-403, $29, Lifelong Learner $19 
Virtual classroom

Specially designed for the plus 50 job seeker, this course will help you update your resume, practice interviewing and develop a plan to take the next step in your career transition. This course will also connect you with training opportunities and
resources available at COD and within the broader community. Every class promises lots of group discussion and interaction, led by a leading career
advancement expert. Instructor: Rob Noonan

Thursdays, Feb. 19 to March 26
6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-150, $49
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Prepare for your next career step by updating your digital presence on LinkedIn with this condensed workshop. Our career advancement expert helps you create a LinkedIn profile and learn how to leverage it to move ahead.

Workshop: LinkedIn 

LinkedIn is more than social media for business; it’s your professional online brand. This workshop will guide you in building a complete, polished profile, teach you how the LinkedIn algorithm works and show you how to leverage the platform to connect with people and opportunities to land your next role. Instructor: Rob Noonan 

Saturday, March 7 
Noon to 3 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-160, $19 
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Workshop: Career Search Basics 

Brush up on your career search basics in this condensed workshop. Our career advancement expert helps you update your resume, learn key features of today’s job market and get ready to take your next step. Instructor: Rob Noonan 

Saturday, Feb. 7 
Noon to 3 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-154, $19 
On campus in Glen Ellyn 

Tuesday, March 3 
9 a.m. to noon 
CEHUMNT-0001-155, $19 
On campus in Glen Ellyn 

Monday, April 6 
5 to 8 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-156, $19 
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Workshop: AI in the Job Search 

Put technology to work for you. You’ve heard the buzz about ChatGPT, CoPilot, Gemini, and Claude— but have you ever thought of them as your personal job search team? This workshop shows how to use generative AI as a career coach, copy editor, and interview prep partner to open new opportunities. 

Saturday, Feb. 21 
Noon to 3 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-157, $19 
On campus in Glen Ellyn 

Wednesday, March 11 
9 a.m. to noon 
CEHUMNT-0001-158, $19 
On campus in Glen Ellyn 

Thursday, April 9 
5 to 8 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-159, $19 
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Career Readiness: Beyond the Resume 

Now that you’ve updated your resume and polished your interview skills, it’s time to ramp up the rest of your job search activities. We’ll explore little-known job search websites and make sure your LinkedIn profile is ready. Receive smart strategies on the who, what, when, where and why of networking and learn about salary and benefits negotiation through fun and informative exercises. Lastly, we’ll discuss the etiquette of online interviews. Every class promises lots of group discussion and interaction, led by a career advancement expert. Instructor: Rob Noonan 

Wednesdays, April 8 to May 13 
6:30 to 8:30 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-151, $49 
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Self-Discovery for Plus 50 

Evaluate your past accomplishments, current interests, skills and future goals in a friendly and supportive environment. This course is designed for adults returning to school, entering the workforce, or exploring volunteer opportunities. It utilizes assessment tools, including writing exercises, to help you uncover your true interests. Develop an awareness of yourself and your goals to help you take the next step. Instructor: Rob Noonan 

Tuesdays, Feb. 3 to 24 
6:30 to 9 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-153, $39 
On campus in Glen Ellyn

How to Be a Nonprofit Board Member 

Every nonprofit organization relies on its board to effectively deliver on its mission and is always searching for enthusiastic board members. Whether you’ve served on a nonprofit board or are considering it, this course teaches you exactly how to be an effective board member. Learn board roles and responsibilities, different forms of support, and best practices. Serving on a nonprofit board is rewarding, and this course shows what’s involved in serving your community through board service. Instructor: Shefali Trivedi 

Friday, Feb. 20 
1 to 3 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-163, free 
Virtual classroom

Thursday, April 9 
6 to 8 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-164, free 
On campus in Glen Ellyn 

Volunteerism In DuPage County 

Across DuPage County, there are thousands of opportunities to give back to the community by applying your passion, strengths, skills and experience. Learn about local volunteer needs, the benefits of volunteering, and how to find the right match for your time and skills. Get a snapshot of volunteering and discover who needs your help and how you can make a big difference through rewarding volunteer experiences. Instructor: Shefali Trivedi 

Wednesday, Feb. 11 
10 a.m. to noon 
CEHUMNT-0001-165, free 
Virtual classroom 

Tuesday, April 7 
1 to 3 p.m. 
CEHUMNT-0001-166, free 
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Register Today

Sign up easily through Instant Enrollment. Be sure to provide a personal email address when registering and check your spam or junk folders regularly so you don’t miss course updates.
  • To participate in online or hybrid classes, you’ll need access to a computer, tablet (such as an iPad), or similar device with a camera and microphone. Classes are delivered via Zoom and/or the Blackboard learning platform.
  • To ensure a smooth start, registration for online courses may close up to 48 business hours before the course begins.

 

woman on a computer

Attend a Career Advantage Workshop

Career Services offers job fairs and career-related workshops on campus. Most events are free and new offerings are posted every day on the COD calendar.

Complete the Community Education Survey

Not seeing anything that peaks your interest? Participate in a brief community education survey, designed to help us better understand your programming and accessibility interests and needs.

Apply for a Scholarship

Limited scholarship funds are available to assist Lifelong Learners who choose to participate in Continuing Education programs. If you are interested in contributing to this fund, choose "Lifelong Learning Programs" through the College of DuPage Foundation or contact (630) 942-2462. 

Share Your Passion and Experience

College of DuPage Continuing Education is seeking community members who are interested in facilitating Lifelong Learning courses and seminars! Call (630) 942-2208 for assistance with completing a New Course Proposal Form.

Contact Information

Continuing Education
Student Resource Center (SRC), Room 1110
(630) 942-2208
Fax: (630) 942-3785
Email: CE@cod.edu

Front Desk Hours
  • Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Office hours may vary due to holidays and staff coverage.