College Built to Fit Your Life
Adult Student Admissions
Whether you hope to start a new career, advance in your current one, or earn the degree you've always wanted, Columbus State can help you reach your goals.
Choose from 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 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 73% of our students are over the age of 20.
Tell us more about you:
I’m starting college for the first time
With flexible classes including online options, and manageable payment plans, we make it possible for busy adults to earn a college degree.
I’ve attended college in the past (other than Columbus State)
We welcome nearly 8,000 transfer students to Columbus State every year. Let's figure out how your credits transfer and how to meet your goals.
I’ve attended Columbus State in the past
If you applied to Columbus State less than three years ago, there is no need to reapply! Just log into Workday and update your information. If it’s been more than three years or you can’t access Workday, contact Admissions.
I have served in the military
Our Military and Veterans Services team is here to help you with the enrollment process and your education benefits. Your benefits go further here thanks to our low tuition.
Why Columbus State?
Flexible
We offer day and evening classes, as well as flexible online options.
Career Oriented
Many of our degrees and certificates are designed to get you into the career you want in two years or less.
Supportive
We are laser-focused on student success, with resources to support you inside and outside of the classroom.
Affordable
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.
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.
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.
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.