This article appears for archival purposes. Any events, programs and/or initiatives mentioned may no longer be applicable.
The pursuit of education can be a lifelong endeavor. Thousands of continuing education experiences are offered each semester at Maricopa Community Colleges that provide personal enrichment for students of all ages. Educational opportunities range from active and academic to practical and creative. Whether you're looking for a fitness class, a financial workshop, or a place to start your woodworking hobby, you'll find a variety of opportunities at our colleges.
Additionally, the colleges offer a variety of resources and amenity access at an affordable rate or free for those 65 and older. Seniors who are residents of Maricopa County can take advantage of a discounted tuition rate of 50 percent for credit classes at all 10 Maricopa Community Colleges campuses.
Terrific Community Education Opportunities
- Fitness Classes at College Fitness Centers (Tai Chi, Yoga, Basketball, and more)
Love Yoga? Looking for indoor cycling spots? Search for fitness or physical education under the course subject in the "Find a Class" section of the MCCCD website. You can choose your preferred college or check all the colleges for your particular interest.For seniors looking to remain active, but not interested in formal fitness classes, there are also a range of free and discounted programs available at college fitness centers. Additionally, the SilverSneakers® Fitness Program is available at many MCCCD colleges. This is a FREE fitness membership offered in partnership with select Medicare health plans or to group retirees. The program includes group activity classes such as SilverSneakers® Classic, SilverSneakers® Cardio Circuit, and Zumba Gold®, offered in-person and virtually.
- Art Classes (Ceramics, Photography, Beadwork, and More)
An endless variety of ways to be artistically creative exist at our colleges. Many have art spaces designed to facilitate workshops for students and the community. Search for Art or Art Humanities under the course subject in the "Find a Class" section of the MCCCD website. If unable to find what you're looking for, contact the Art Department of the college you find most convenient.
- Book Discussions at College Libraries
The Mesa Community College Library hosts the Thunderbirds Read Book Club to promote literacy, create community, and facilitate conversation and engagement around social issues. Students, college employees, and community members are all invited to participate in order to provide an enriching and universal experience. Book discussions are also scheduled periodically at other Maricopa Community Colleges. Connect with the college libraries by calling or chatting at Ask a Librarian 24/7 Chat.
- Gardening/Landscape Classes and Workshops
Individuals who are interested in learning more about landscape design, plant growth, and gardening may enjoy taking Landscape Horticulture classes at our colleges. Homeowners will benefit from learning the most current information in the field. For credit classes, search for Landscape under the course subject in the "Find a Class" section of the MCCCD website.
- Dance classes
Dancing can allow you to express your emotions and provides an excellent way to stay in shape. Whether you like Latin, flamenco, ballet, or perhaps want to learn about choreography, you'll find it at MCCCD. Search for Dance under the course subject in the "Find a Class" section of the MCCCD website. You can choose your preferred college or check all the colleges for your particular interest. Then get ready to feel the beat at your college dance class!
Additionally, specialized programs like New Frontiers for Lifelong Learning at Mesa Community College, New Adventures In Learning at Chandler-Gilbert Community College, and community education programs at other district colleges offer those near or at retirement age a variety of classes and workshops. Members can explore, develop, expand their learning, increase social resources, and volunteer within the college or community. You'll find:
- Geocaching
- Military history
- Blogging
- Lego building
- Beginning piano
- Financial workshops
- Field trips with peers
- Walking, biking groups
- Discounts to college athletic and performing arts events and the performing arts
One more terrific opportunity is to visit Phoenix Forge, a community makerspace about five miles from GateWay Community College and open to MCCCD students, ASU students, and the public. A large variety of equipment and tools such as 3D printers, woodworking equipment, electronics/robotics equipment, and metalsmithing tools are available, with classes that teach the basics on a rotating schedule.
With so many lifelong learning opportunities available, you'll want to start checking out your interests now! It's also a good idea to keep up to date with current workshops and offerings for individuals by following MCCCD on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.