City Colleges: A Gateway to Education and Career Advancement

Are you an adult learner, age 18 or older, with a desire to pursue higher education or complete a postsecondary credential? Perhaps you started college but were unable to finish? City colleges offer a wealth of opportunities for individuals seeking to enhance their skills, transition to new careers, or simply enrich their lives through learning.

Accessing Resources for Non-Traditional Students

Adult learners often encounter unique challenges that can hinder their educational goals. City colleges recognize these challenges and strive to provide accessible resources. Flexible schedules, online courses, adult-friendly environments, and comprehensive support services are designed to accommodate the needs of busy adults.

In January 2014, the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) convened a working group of adult-friendly community and postsecondary partners to enhance institutionalized and community-based support for adult learners within the District.

Navigating the Admissions Process

The admissions office serves as your initial point of contact for navigating the enrollment process. Be sure to explore the specific requirements and deadlines for each program.

Exploring Financial Aid Options

Understanding financial aid options is crucial for making college affordable. Financial aid applications can be complex, and resources for adult learners may be limited. To explore federal financial aid opportunities, complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. The FAFSA application typically opens on October 1st of each year, and students should aim to submit it by March 1st. However, always verify your school’s specific deadline, as it may be earlier.

DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG)

If you earned your diploma or GED between 2010 and 2025, you might be eligible for the DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG). This program offers additional financial support at specific colleges and universities.

Mayor’s Scholars Undergraduate Program

The Mayor’s Scholars Undergraduate Program provides need-based funding to cover tuition and fees for eligible DC residents pursuing their first undergraduate degree at select public or private colleges or universities in the DC metro area.

Scholarships and Other Aid

Many community organizations within the District offer scholarships to adult learners. Contact the financial aid office at your prospective school to obtain a comprehensive list of available scholarships. Engage with a financial aid counselor to explore scholarships, fellowships, grants, and other sources of free aid. Mark all application dates and deadlines on your calendar to avoid missing opportunities.

Transferring Previous College Credits

If you have earned college credits from previous institutions, request your official transcripts from the office of the registrar at each college you attended.

Registering for Classes and Getting Involved

Once accepted, register for classes as soon as possible. Attend orientations to familiarize yourself with the campus and available resources. Explore campus and community organizations to connect with fellow students and build a support network. Many schools have dedicated offices or advisors specifically for adult students.

Read also: SU and the City

Diverse Programs and Courses Offered

City colleges offer a wide array of programs and courses designed to help you achieve your educational and career goals. Whether you seek the training, degree, or certificate needed to secure a good job quickly, or you aim to earn credits that transfer to a four-year university, city colleges provide pathways to success.

Accelerated Pathways

Accelerated Pathways (7-week) courses offer students the opportunity to save time, gain college credits faster, and advance more quickly toward degree completion, transfer options, and career readiness.

Noncredit Courses

Noncredit courses are available for building job skills or simply for personal enrichment. Choose from a diverse selection of fulfilling options.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships provide an opportunity to earn while you learn, combining education with paid, on-the-job training.

High School Diploma and GED Preparation

Work towards your Maryland high school diploma by taking basic, intermediate, and advanced language arts and math classes. Prepare for the GED® exam or demonstrate high school-level skills in the National External Diploma Program (NEDP).

Read also: Your Path to a Healthcare Career

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC)

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) stands as the only public university in the nation's capital and the sole urban land-grant university in the United States. UDC offers a wide variety of robust educational, research, and community service opportunities, extending beyond its campus footprint to provide easy access to world-famous monuments, political intrigue, and cultural attractions.

UDC offers more than 80 programs across five schools and colleges:

College of Arts & Sciences (CAS)

If you envision a career in the arts, education, science, or mathematics, the College of Arts & Sciences (CAS) may be the ideal place for you.

College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability & Environmental Sciences (CAUSES)

Join UDC's land-grant college, the College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability & Environmental Sciences (CAUSES), and explore degree paths in areas such as architecture, urban sustainability, health education, and nursing, as well as a variety of community education programs through our five land-grant centers!

School of Business & Public Administration (SBPA)

Pursue your dream of a rewarding career in accounting, finance, business management, and more through one of the many degree programs in the School of Business & Public Administration (SBPA) at UDC. In addition to your degree, consider becoming a member of one of the school's business-oriented clubs to make lifelong connections.

School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS)

At a time when technology in and out of the workplace continues to expand and advance, the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences equips you with the tools needed to become a leader in your field. If you're interested in a career in business technology, fashion merchandising, law enforcement, nursing, and more, then look no further.

David A. Clarke School of Law

For more than 50 years, the UDC's David A. Clarke School of Law has led graduates to promising careers in government and public interest.

Division of Workforce Development and Lifelong Learning (WDLL)

In association with the District's workforce plan, UDC's Division of Workforce Development and Lifelong Learning (WDLL) is dedicated to fighting unemployment and underemployment in our community.

Athletics at UDC

From basketball and soccer to tennis and track & field, there's a place for you on the UDC team. Pursue your degree, get involved in leadership, and work towards a successful career in your field! Whether you're here on scholarship or eager to try out, explore the team sports available at UDC. Being exposed to wide ranges of experiences and perspectives will contribute to becoming a more well-rounded person. The university's approach to various majors and the level at which the professors teach are also highly valued.

Community Organizations

Many community organizations within the District offer certificate training programs, college counseling, adult education programs, and financial aid and scholarship opportunities for adult learners. The community-based organizations listed below have been featured at the Adult College and Credentials Fair in previous years. [Note: A list of specific organizations was not provided in the source text.]

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