Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What type of institution of higher learning is College of DuPage?
A: College of DuPage is a publicly supported community college serving Illinois Community College District 502, accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. College of DuPage is the second-largest provider of higher education in Illinois and is the largest single-campus community college in the nation outside of California. College of DuPage serves more than 31,000 students per term at its Glen Ellyn campus and six regional centers.

Q: Who may attend COD?
A: College of DuPage maintains an open enrollment policy. Graduates of accredited high schools and adults over 18 years of age are eligible to attend. In addition, COD offers a variety Continuing Education and non-credit courses for students of all ages, from youths to seniors.

Q: What is the academic term at COD?
A: College of DuPage operates on a semester system. Two semesters of 16 weeks each comprise an academic year, with the third semester of summer lasting about 8 to 10 weeks. Within each semester are sessions of varying lengths.

Q: What academic degrees and certificates are offered?
A: College of DuPage offers more than 90 certificates programs and degrees for today’s occupational and technical careers, and eight associate’s degrees in 59 occupational and 45 transfer pre-baccalaureate programs.

Q: Will COD credits transfer to colleges and universities that grant a baccalaureate degree?
A: Yes, in January 2008, College of DuPage received a seven-year reaffirmation of accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. In addition, the college participates in the Illinois Articulation Initiative to further ensure transfer of credit to state colleges and universities, as well as most national institutions. Visit Student Services at COD for more information.

Q: How many credits are required for full-time student status?
A: A full-time academic load is at least 12 semester credits per term. Summer term part-time status is 3+ semester credits; full-time status is 6+ semester credits.

Q: How do I register for classes at College of DuPage?
A: Students can register online or in person at the Registration office, SRC 2048. Check the Registration web site for more information.

Q: What is tuition at College of DuPage?
A: Effective Fall 2011, tuition for credit classes is as follows:

District 502 residents: $132 per credit hour
Out-of-district Illinois residents: $319 per credit hour
Out-of-state residents: $389 per credit hour

These prices do not reflect lab or travel fees. Tuition for non-credit classes, seminars, conferences and workshops are event specific. Tuition is subject to change. Check the Tuition and Fees web page for updated information.


Q: Must I take classes on campus in Glen Ellyn?
A: Most credit classes meet on campus in Glen Ellyn. However, the college also provides courses at more than 90 off-site locations, as well as six Regional Centers and Centers for Independent Learning.

Q: What is the tuition refund policy at COD?
A: Refunds are given following a formal request made during the refund period.

Q: How do I find out more about College of DuPage?
A: In addition to this web site, the College of DuPage general information office, (630) 942-2380, can refer you to a specific area of inquiry.


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