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The Education You Need for the Career You Want

Adult Student Admissions

Whether you want to start a new career, get ahead at your current job, or check “college degree” off your list of life goals, you belong at Columbus State.

We offer two-year degrees and short-term certificates designed to prepare you for the career you want. We work closely with regional employers to understand the skills they look for in job candidates, and translate that knowledge into our classes so you graduate ready to work. And if you’re already juggling work and family, don’t worry — Columbus State’s low tuition, manageable payment plans, and flexible classes make college possible even when life is busy. That's why 68% of our students are over the age of 20.

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Tell us more about you:

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I’m starting college for the first time

We understand the unique needs of students who are attending college while working, taking care of families, and fulfilling other responsibilities. With flexible classes including online options, and manageable payment plans, we make it possible for busy adults to earn a college degree.

NEW ADULT STUDENTS

I’ve attended college in the past (other than Columbus State)

More than 9,000 students a year transfer from other colleges to become Columbus State students. If you’re ready to benefit from our small classes, dedicated faculty and low tuition, we’re ready to welcome you as a Columbus State cougar!

TRANSFER TO COLUMBUS STATE

I’ve attended Columbus State in the past

If you have already submitted an application for admission in the past, there is no need to ever re-apply! We will have your information on file already. You may need to update your Columbus State record to reflect any changes in your name, address, phone number, immigration status, or program of study.

RETURNING STUDENTS

I have served in the military

Columbus State is consistently ranked as a top college for veterans. Our Military and Veterans Services team is here to help you with the enrollment process and accessing your education benefits.

MILITARY AND VETERANS SERVICES

Why Columbus State?

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Flexible

We offer day and evening classes, as well as flexible online options.

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Career Oriented

Many of our degrees and certificates are designed to get you into the career you want in two years or less.

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Supportive

We are laser-focused on student success, with resources to support you inside the classroom and outside of it.

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Affordable

At less than $5,000 for a full year, we offer the lowest tuition in the region, plus financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

Explore Degrees and Certificates

Degrees

Columbus State offers a wide range of programs that allow you to join the workforce with your two-year associate degree, or transfer on to earn a bachelor’s degree. We have deep roots in STEM, business and manufacturing, health care, social sciences, skilled trades, arts and sciences and more. Explore our degree programs to find the option that’s right for you.

Explore Degree Programs

Certificates

Columbus State also offers a variety of short-term certificate programs in fields where there are career paths with well-paying jobs. Our certificates provide intensive study (usually 1-2 semesters) in a specific discipline and give you the credentials to help position yourself for hire, promotion, retention, or even the next credential as new career opportunities emerge.

Explore Certificate Programs

Best for Vets

Veterans Services

Columbus State is consistently ranked as a top college for veterans. Our Military and Veterans Services team is here to help you with the enrollment process and accessing your education benefits.

Military & Veterans Services

Personal, Supportive Online Learning

For many adult students, online classes and degrees offer much-needed flexibility and convenience. At Columbus State, we offer a wide range of online courses designed to deliver the same engaging experience you expect in a traditional classroom.

Columbus State launched its first online course in 1997, and we’ve been committed to innovation in online learning ever since. We were the first college in Ohio approved by the Higher Learning Commission to offer degrees entirely online. Since 2017, 80% of our graduates completed one or more online classes on their way to earning a degree. Our faculty are equipped with the tools and training they need to inspire and engage students online. In fact, Columbus State Community College has won multiple awards for digital instruction design and original online textbooks, including the Apple Distinguished Program designation and the Campus Technology Teaching & Learning Impact Award.

Online Learning

Accelerated Training Centers

If you need a faster track to steady employment, our no-cost Accelerated Training Centers can help you reset your career with two to five weeks of training. You’ll become qualified for skilled positions that start at $16-$26 an hour. You’ll also meet hiring managers with positions to fill! 

Free trainings can include: 

  • Career counseling
  • Basic English language skills
  • Basic computer skills

Please note: Accelerated Training Centers do not offer college credit. 

Learn More

Request Information

To receive information about upcoming events, admissions steps and more, tell us more about yourself and your interests!

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