Non-Credit Programs and
Courses
Learning that fits your goals
Not every class leads to a college degree, and not every learning goal requires college credit. CCC’s non-credit courses help you build skills, earn industry credentials, explore personal interests, and continue learning throughout your life. Whether you’re preparing for a new job, advancing your career, or simply learning something new, you’ll find flexible options designed to meet you where you are.
What does Non-credit mean?
College credit hours are units of measurement that track a student’s academic progress towards a degree or certificate. They represent the amount of work and learning involved in a course, and they’re awarded based on the number of hours spent in class and on homework.
Non-credit courses do not earn academic college credit and generally do not apply toward a degree or certificate program. They are not recorded on an official academic transcript and are not eligible for financial aid.
What non-credit courses do offer is flexibility, shorter time commitments, and opportunities to learn new skills without enrolling in a college degree program.
Choose the option that fits your goal
Workforce Training and Professional Advancement
These programs provide practical, skills-focused learning designed to prepare you for employment, meet industry requirements, or advance in your current career. Some programs result in an industry-recognized credential or certification.
Examples may include:
- CDL training CPR and First Aid
- OSHA training Real Estate
- Certified Maintenance
- Technician Industry
- Employer-specific training
A good fit for:
- Career changers
- Working professionals
- Employers seeking workforce development
- Individuals pursuing industry certifications
Community Education courses are designed for personal enrichment, lifelong learning, and community engagement. These non-credit classes allow you to explore interests, develop new hobbies, and connect with others in the community.
Examples may include:
- Arts and crafts
- Outdoor skills
- Technology topics
- Wellness and recreation
- History and culture
- Community lectures and workshops
A good fit for:
- Lifelong learners
- Retirees
- Community members
- Anyone exploring a personal interest
Looking for credit courses?
Before you register
What You Should Know About Non-Credit Courses
- Most non-credit courses do not require you to apply to CCC before registering.
- Non-credit courses are offered throughout the year and are not tied to the traditional semester calendar.
- Non-credit coursework does not appear on an official CCC academic transcript. Some programs may provide a certificate of completion or industry credential.
- Non-credit courses are typically not eligible for federal or state financial aid.
- Many have flexible schedules
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between credit and non-credit courses?
Credit courses count toward a college degree or certificate and appear on your academic transcript. Non-credit courses focus on workforce training, professional development, personal enrichment, or community learning and generally do not apply toward a degree.
- Can I earn a credential through a non-credit program?
Yes. Some workforce training courses lead to industry-recognized certifications or credentials, depending on the program.
- Are non-credit courses eligible for financial aid?
No. Non-credit courses generally are not eligible for federal or state financial aid.
- Which option is right for me?
If your goal is a degree or university transfer pathway, choose a credit program. If your goal is job skills, professional development, or personal enrichment, explore Workforce Training or Community Education.
