Adult-Focused Programs

Ohio Options for Adults: Aspire and Adult Diploma Program

Ohio Options for Adults programs offer free classes for adults who need help acquiring the skills to be successful in college, training or employment.

Aspire

The Aspire program offers classes to help adult students:

• Improve their academic skills
• Prepare for the workforce
• Upskill for the High School Equivalency (HSE), GED® or HiSET test
• Prepare to earn a high school diploma
• Improve their English skills (ESL/ESOL)
• Prepare for a job, college or workforce credential 

Morning and evening classes take place at Tri-C's Eastern, Metropolitan, Western and Westshore campuses and other locations throughout Cuyahoga County. The program is for students ages 16 and older whose skills are below a 12th-grade level. Orientation is required.

Adult Diploma Program

The Adult Diploma Program gives individuals 18 or older in Ohio the opportunity to earn a highly respected Ohio-issued high school diploma. By enrolling at Tri-C, you can secure a high school diploma and a credential that will significantly enhance your employment prospects. Start this rewarding journey with the orientation for the Tri-C Adult Diploma Program.  

To enroll in the Adult Diploma Program, you must:
• Be at least 18 years old
• Have not received a high school or GED diploma
• Live in the state of Ohio

To receive a state of Ohio-issued high school diploma and in-demand certificate, you must: 
• Attend the Orientation 
• Receive a score of 12 or higher on the ACT WorkKeys exam
• Complete one of the 12 approved industry-recognized in-demand credential trainings offered at Tri-C 
• Meet all the requirements and obtain the industry-recognized in-demand credential 

For more information or to register for orientation, visit the Adult Diploma Program web page or call the office at 216-987-3044.

Interfaith Community Service Initiative

The purpose of this initiative is to engage faith-based institutions so they can assist parishioners and community members in achieving their academic, educational, and workforce-related aspirations.

The desired outcome of this initiative is to strengthen connections between Tri-C and the faith-based community. Similar programs at other colleges have recognized that individuals who receive critical information about education and jobs in a familiar location from someone they know are more likely to enroll and finish high school/GED, college or workforce programs. Visit the Interfaith Community Service Initiative web page or call 216-987-0496 to learn more.

Educational Opportunity Center

The Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) is a federally funded TRIO program that offers free enrollment assistance to more than 1,200 Cuyahoga County adults annually. The program is open to individuals ages 19 and over who wish to further their education. EOC advisors provide information, workshops and services to individuals and groups.

Advisors help participants:

• Enroll in college, certificate or vocational training programs
• Enroll in Ohio Options for Adults (Aspire/GED or Adult Diploma) programs
• Learn about academic and career opportunities
• Obtain college admissions information
• Address student loan defaults
• Apply for federal student aid and scholarships 

EOC also provides referrals to social services and community resources. All services are available to participants at no cost to them through funding from the U.S. Department of Education and Tri-C. Call 216-987-0291 or visit the EOC web page to learn more.