Online Learning
Flexible, high-quality learning that fits your life.
Whether you’re earning your degree, upskilling for your career, or exploring something new, Glen Oaks makes it possible—on your time. With fully online, hybrid, and flexible learning options, you’ll get the quality education and personal support you need to succeed, wherever you are.
Explore Your Online Options
Academic Programs
Earn college credit toward a degree or certificate while learning online or in a hybrid format.
What to expect:
- Follow the official academic calendar
- Learn through the Canvas online platform
- Build credits that transfer to many four-year universities
Popular programs include:
- Associate of Business
- Associate of Arts
Best for:
High school graduates, transfer students, and adult learners ready to complete a college
credential.
Career & Professional Training
Gain real-world skills quickly with short-term, career-focused training programs designed for today’s workforce.
What to expect:
- Focus on job-ready skills and industry certifications
- Short-term, flexible course formats
- Options for self-paced or instructor-led learning
- Opportunities to apply some training toward future academic programs
You can:
- Advance in your current job
- Train for a new career field
- Earn an industry-recognized credential
- Complete continuing education units (CEUs)
Popular programs include:
- Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt
- Hotel Management
- Certified Paralegal
Best for:
Working adults, career changers, and anyone looking to quickly build in-demand skills.
Personal Enrichment Courses
Learn something new—just because you want to.
These courses are designed for personal growth, creativity, and exploration.
What to expect:
- No grades or academic credit
- Flexible, interest-based learning
- A wide range of topics and hobbies
Popular courses include:
- Digital Photography
- Personal Finance
- Veterinary Assistant
Best for:
Lifelong learners, hobbyists, and anyone curious about trying something new.
Explore Personal Enrichment Online
State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) 
Glen Oaks Community College (GOCC) is authorized by the State of Michigan to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). This authorization allows GOCC to offer online courses to students residing in states that are approved SARA members.
Out-of-state students interested in enrolling in GOCC’s online courses should carefully review the information below to ensure compliance with state authorization requirements.
Professional Licensure
Glen Oaks Community College (GOCC) is approved to offer programs that may lead to professional licensure in the state of Michigan. Students who are considering a licensure-track program and who reside outside of Michigan – or who plan to seek employment in another state – are strongly encouraged to contact the appropriate licensing agency in their state of residence or intended employment before enrolling in the program.
It is the student’s responsibility to verify whether a GOCC program and/or specific course(s) meet the licensure requirements of the state in which they intend to seek licensure. Licensing requirements vary by state and profession, and prior confirmation can help ensure the program aligns with your professional goals.
Complaint Process
Students who have a concern related to a class or program should first attempt to resolve the issue by speaking directly with the faculty or staff member involved.
If the concern cannot be resolved, or the student is reluctant to speak with the faculty or staff member, they are encouraged to utilize GOCC’s formal Student Concern Procedure by submitting a report through the Report a Concern webpage on the College’s website.
Students who reside outside of Michigan and are enrolled in GOCC online courses, and who are unable to resolve their concern through the steps outlined above, may contact the appropriate oversight office in their state for further assistance. If you need additional assistance, you may contact GOCC’s accrediting agency, the Higher Learning Commission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between academic and professional training online?
A: Academic programs earn college credit toward a degree. Professional training focuses
on workforce skills and typically results in a certificate, not college credit.
Q: Can I use financial aid for professional development courses?
A: Financial aid usually applies to academic programs. Some workforce funding options
may be available—contact Workforce Development & Community Education for details.
Q: Do personal enrichment courses appear on my college transcript?
A: No. These courses are non-credit and are not included on a college transcript.
Q: Are professional development certificates the same as academic certificates?
A: No. Workforce certificates show skill completion, while academic certificates are
part of a college credential.
Q: Can I start in professional development and later pursue a degree?
A: Yes. Many students begin with short-term training and transition into a degree
program when they’re ready.