Adult student smiling at graduation

Adult and Returning Students

Whether you are looking to take a few classes and learn new skills to help you on your job, completing a college degree for the first time or exploring a career change, College of DuPage is here for you. Contact your Admissions Representative for help with your next steps.

Apply Today

College of DuPage has an open door admission policy for anyone who is:

  • At least 18 years of age or 
  • Is a high school graduate or has received a High School Equivalency Diploma (i.e. GED, or HiSET, or TASC) 

Our online application is easy and can be accessed at any time. If you have already taken classes at College of DuPage in the past, you do not need to reapply for admission. If you have questions, contact the Office of Admissions and Outreach at (630) 942-2626.

College of DuPage offers a variety of different programs designed to fit your needs:

  • Online Courses 
    An internet-based, self-paced alternative to traditional classes.
  • Continuing Education Adult Enrichment
    Learn about our free Adult Education Program (ABE, GED and ESL) as well as adult test preparation (GRE, GMAT and LSAT), tutoring, online Ed2Go programs, Music Academy lessons, Lifelong Learning courses, and many other non-credit adult enrichment classes and events.
  • Continuing Education Professional Development
    Advance your career with certification programs in health care, business, truck driving, massage, law enforcement, and more, or take advantage of contract training for your organization.
  • Credit for Life Experience
    Earn college credit through your career or life-related experience.

The Academics section of our website contains a wealth of information about the different types of programs we offer.

Meeting with one of our counselors is a great way to help define a clear educational or career-path strategy. Counseling is available on campus in Glen Ellyn and at four off-campus centers. Schedule an appointment by calling (630) 942-2259 or ask a quick question. You can also research career opportunities at the Career Services. Our Career Services offers a variety of resources to help you with your career goals, including job search and internship assistance. 

If it's been a while since you've attended class, it might be a good idea to refresh your math, writing, reading and/or speech skills. The Academic Support Center offers a nice selection of seminars and courses that will help you get the most out of your ensuing classwork.

COD Stories

Violet Jackson

“I was working full-time, I maintained a 3.8 GPA. This was only possible due to the support of my family and the professionals at COD. I am very appreciative of the support given because it helped me as I fulfilled my goals." - Violet Jackson

Violet's COD Story

COD Stories

Michael Wagner

“COD enabled me to become CompTIA certified for A+ and Network+, and I earned the Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching certification. I have earned five College certificates within the Computer and Information Technology program and, to wrap it all up, I’ve now earned my associate’s degree.” - Michael Wagner

Michael's COD Story

COD Stories

Jean Morris

“I was so nervous about going back to school. Although I was the oldest student in the class, I wound up feeling like I fit in. If you are nervous, try one class, because you will be hooked.” - Jean Morris

Jean's COD Story

COD Stories

Reggie Martin

“My studies at College of DuPage laid a tremendous foundation. The class sizes were small, so I got to know my professors pretty well. After spending time in the military, they were very helpful in easing the transition as far as getting back into the routine of going to school regularly.” - Reggie Martin

Reggie's COD Story

COD Stories

Samantha Wirth

“As a mom with two small children, a full-time job and as a military wife with a deployed spouse—flexibility was a necessity! In my time at COD, I took night classes, early morning classes, online classes, hybrid classes, Adult Fast Track classes and traditional 16-week classes.” - Samantha Wirth

Samantha's COD Story