Adult Learners
Continue with college, start a new career or upskill
Whatever your goal, we'll help you choose an academic pathway that is affordable and suits your busy life.
What's your goal?
Earn a degree or certificate
Find a degree or certificate program that aligns with your purpose and interests.
Enroll in professional development or noncredit career programs
Gain new skills, earn industry credentials, prep for a certification exam or stay current in your profession.
Re-enroll at CLC
It’s easy to continue your studies at CLC when you’re ready to come back.
Earn and learn through apprenticeships
Earn money, get practical on-the-job training and pay nothing. Sounds good and it's true!
Not sure which path to take?
Adult learners have dedicated College and Career Navigators (CNN) to help restart your academic journey. We'll help you afford college, choose classes, set up a healthy life-work balance and more.
Register for Spring 2026
Explore all spring classes offered in flexible formats to fit your schedule. Learn how to apply, it's easy and free! Classes begin Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026.
Support for adult learners
You're juggling priorities: your job(s), your family, your personal life. And now, school. Don't worry, we got you.
There is no age limit to apply for federal aid. We'll help you figure out finances so you can earn a debt-free degree or career certificate.
Learn and earn through apprenticeships
Students share how the apprentice program leads to professional and personal growth.
You have convenient and flexible class options. Attend classes on campus, online from home, or a blend of both. You even can learn hands on through field studies and apprenticeships.
If it's been a while since you've been in a classroom, we have people and resources to help you get back on track and succeed in your academic journey.
- College and Career Navigators (CCNs) support you through the admission process. CCNs guide you through the program and career exploration process. They get you set up for your first semester.
- Academic Success Advisors (ASAs) step in when you start at CLC. Your ASA helps you create a plan to achieve your goals, that fits your schedule and supports your needs. Your ASA sticks with you through graduation to help you achieve academic success.
- Free tutoring for many of your classes plus help with math and writing.
- Over 1,000 qualified and caring full-time and part-time faculty teach at CLC, and nearly all of them have post-graduate degrees.
- Affordable or free textbooks and technology. Borrow a laptop at the library to use for an entire term if you need it.
You've finished your studies. We'll help with what's next.
Moving forward with your bachelor's degree? Your Academic Success Advisor (ASA) will guide you through the transfer process, from start to finish. You can transfer to any school you choose!
If you're ready for a new career, you have access to career support specialists, job fairs and employability skills seminars. The Career and Job Placement Center has resources to help in your job search:
- Find job postings through LancerJobLink, CLC's online job site powered by Handshake
- Participate in job fairs on campus
- Resume writing and interview prep guidance
In this video, hear from students who used our Career & Job Placement Center services to gain internships, improve resume and interview skills, and connect with employers. Learn about workshops, apprenticeships and more!
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Watch CJPC video on YouTube
Your personal well-being affects your ability to achieve in school. If you need childcare while in class, we’re here to help. Get free or low-cost childcare at our Lakeshore and Grayslake campuses.
Other free and low-cost resources include gym memberships, psychological counseling, massage, dental hygiene, fitness training and wellness coaching. We're looking out for your total personal success.
Get started at CLC
Start the journey to reach your next goal. Take classes online or in-person at our locations in Grayslake, Vernon Hills, Waukegan and Gurnee.
With more than 150 degrees and certificates, CLC will help you achieve your goals. Let’s begin.
Upcoming registration & start dates, payment deadlines
Note: Registration continues until classes start or when classes are full.
Need help getting started? Get 1:1 registration assistance for Spring 2026
On-campus
Room A111, Grayslake Campus
Monday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Contact us to request in-person assistance.
Virtual via Zoom
Monday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Chat with us on Lancer Live Chat to schedule your Virtual Registration Assistance via Zoom.
Frequently asked questions
Balance life, work and school
Succeed in college
Get started
Did you know that you can get college credit for your work experience?
You may get college credit for the knowledge and industry credentials you already have. That means fewer classes are needed to complete your degree or certificate program.
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