The Continuing Education program, founded in 1918, has been a division of Santa Barbara City College since 1958. Through its Continuing Education program, SBCC provides continuing education to adults living within its District, according to California's Master Plan for Higher Education. All Continuing Education courses, instructors, staffing, facilities and policies are approved by the SBCC Board of Trustees under the auspices of the California Community College system. Funding comes from the State of California through the California state legislature. The mix of students is enriching.
Most classes are open to adults without any prior preparation.
The terms vary in length from seven to 12 weeks, depending upon available funding. A six-week summer session of up to 250 classes begins immediately following the conclusion of the spring term if funding is available. The Schedule of Classes will be distributed with the Santa Barbara News-Press on the last Sunday in August, the last Sunday in December, and the first Sunday in April. Schedules are also available for free at the Schott and Wake Centers. Schedules of Summer Classes are available at the Schott and Wake Centers only.