Teacher and student work on computer

Developmental Education

Young adults with mild to moderate intellectual or developmental disabilities who can independently and safely manage classroom expectations and find their way to classes can continue their education through College of DuPage's Developmental Education Program. If you are a student in a high school transition program or have completed a transition program and are ready to explore post-secondary resources, review some of the exciting options that are available.

Our courses will help students continue to increase academic and employment skills and improve overall communication and independence abilities. Once enrolled a Literacy, Reach Out, or Vocational Skills course, students must complete Developmental Education Information and Code of Conduct forms in order to assist staff with providing appropriate instructional experiences. Note that no COD-sponsored transportation is provided for these classes.  

Spring 2025 Courses

Feed Your Need to Read

This literacy-based class focuses on improving reading comprehension skills to unlock more of each student’s learning potential. The teacher guides students through group activities and individualized instruction to provide challenges and boost overall reading ability.

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 4 to April 17 (no class on April 1 and 3)
5 to 5:50 p.m. 
LEISR-0070-400, $225 
On campus in Glen Ellyn 

DaniMation Introduction

This introductory animation class is designed for neurodiverse students. Discover the power of animation as a means of expression, communication and storytelling. Learn about techniques, tools and software used to create unique animated worlds, characters and narratives. Students may enroll in more than one session.

Monday, April 14 
6 to 8 p.m. 
LEISR-0070-105, $149

Monday, April 21
6 to 8 p.m. 
LEISR-0070-106, $149 

Monday, April 28 
6 to 8 p.m. 
LEISR-0070-107, $149 

1:1 2D Animation Instruction

In this individualized course, a student receives the undivided attention of a DaniMation instructor and benefits from a customized curriculum designed to meet learning goals and interests. The session will cover the entire animation production process or focus on a specific topic, including animation principles, storyboarding, character design and more. This virtual course includes four hours of one-on-one instruction and will meet at a time and date arranged by the student and instructor. For registration information, contact Tracy Kline at (630) 942-3779.

LEISR-0070-108, $272
Virtual classroom

New class: Breathwork and Self-Regulation Techniques

Students will learn how to self-regulate through a variety of breathing patterns.  Benefits include reducing anxiety and improving focus and sleep.  Additional self-regulating techniques such as journaling, meditation, and visualization will be introduced.

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 4 to March 6
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., $199
LEISR-0070-066

Child Care and Development

This course provides a basic understanding of child care and development. Students discuss the developmental expectations and the physical, intellectual and emotional needs of babies and children. The class addresses topics of abuse and explores options for selecting appropriate child care.

Thursday, Feb. 6 to April 17 (no class April 3) 
1 to 2:30 p.m.
LEISR-0070-055, $199
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Enhancing Language

This class is designed to enrich and expand existing language skills. Activities will emphasize communicative interaction and experience-based language. Verbalization of words and ideas in meaningful contexts will encourage the retention of content and facilitate individual learning.

Monday, Feb. 3 to April 14 (no class March 31) 
1 to 2:30 p.m.
LEISR-0070-020, $199
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Money Management

Students gain a basic understanding of ways to manage money, including topics such as cash, ATMs, credit and debit cards, shopping, budgeting, pricing and avoiding debt. A simple budget will be developed by each student that will address basic expenditures, savings and discretionary spending.

Wednesday, Feb. 5 to April 16 (no class April 2) 
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
LEISR-0070-050, $199
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Practical Health

This class discusses practical health information needed to navigate the adult world.  Explore common social and real-life scenarios that adults encounter.  The class will be divided into six sections: body awareness, medicine, first aid, nutrition, social awareness, and other practical matters.

Friday, Feb. 7 to April 18 (no class April 4) 
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
LEISR-0070-040, $199
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Time Management

Students will complete activities that encourage personal organization as it relates to calendars, schedules, telling time and using time in everyday situations.

Wednesday, Feb. 5 to April 16 (no class April 2) 
1 to 2:30 p.m.
LEISR-0070-025, $199

Computer Skills II

A continuation of Computer Skills I, this course includes topics related to word processing, text editing, margins, text alignment, tabs, bullet lists, envelopes and labels. Recommended preparation: Computer Skills I

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 18 to April 17 (no class April 1 and 3)
Noon to 1:50 p.m. 
VOCSK-0022-001, $299
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Floral Design

This class introduces the basic skills needed to work in a florist shop. Students explore floral preparation, cutting, care and preservation while learning to identify the types of flowers and foliage used in floral arrangements. The class also covers styles used in floral design, with a focus on theme designs, symmetrical and asymmetrical designs, and small bouquets.  All projects are to be taken home.  Note:  This is one of four classes needed to attain the Horticulture Skills Series certificate of completion.

Monday and Wednesday, April 7 to May 7
9 to 11:50 a.m.
VOCSK-0021-003, $399
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Food Service Skills II

Students practice basic/intermediate skills required for food service occupations, including safe food handling, safety issues, food preparation and cooking. Students must be able to independently manage basic kitchen tasks. Recommended preparation: Food Service Skills I or Food Service Skills Workshop

Friday, Feb. 7 to April 11 (no class Feb. 28 and April 4 )
10:30 a.m. to 1:50 p.m. 
VOCSK-0042-001, $349
Culinary & Hospitality Center (CHC)

General Office Skills II

The course is a basic/intermediate introduction to basic office tasks and operation of office machines. Topics include filing, mailing, copying, faxing and time management skills. Recommended preparation: General Office Skills I

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 18 to April 17 (no class April 1 and April 3)
4:30 to 6:20 p.m. 
VOCSK-0025-001, $299
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Horticulture Skills I

Students learn about the propagation, growth and care of plants in the greenhouse, from propagation to maturity. The focus is on spring/summer plants, annuals, perennials, houseplants, natives and vegetables. Students will propagate plants to bring home. Note: This is one of four classes needed to attain the Horticulture Skills Series certificate of completion.

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 4 to March 27 
9 to 10:50 a.m.
VOCSK-0061-002, $299
Technology Education Center (TEC)

Hospitality Skills II

Students learn and apply the hospitality skills needed to work in dining and lodging establishments.  Each session includes hands-on application at COD’s Culinary & Hospitality Center (CHC).  Students practice housekeeping skills in guest rooms of the on-campus boutique hotel, the Inn at Water’s Edge.  In addition, students practice skills needed in the restaurant business through hands-on experiences in the Waterleaf Restaurant.  Both housekeeping and dining-related skill sets are important for entry-level jobs in the hospitality industry. Recommended preparation: Hospitality Skills I

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 4 to March 27 
Noon to 1:50 p.m. 
VOCSK-0051-002, $399
Culinary & Hospitality Center (CHC)

Keyboarding Skills I

This course introduces the computer keyboard and typing skills. Topics include how to touch type alphabetic and special characters.

Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 18 to April 17 (no class April 1 and 3)
9 to 10:50 a.m.
VOCSK-0020-001, $299
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Workplace Communication Skills I

This course introduces essential communication skills that enhance workplace performance. Topics emphasize communication with employers, co-workers and the public.

Monday and Wednesday, Feb. 17 to April 16 (no class March 31 and April 2)
11:05 a.m. to 12:55 p.m.
VOCSK-0013-001, $299
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Horticulture Series

Developmental Education students may take a series of four courses to develop entry-level skill sets that can be used in the horticulture industry. Students who complete all four courses will receive a certificate of completion:

  • Horticulture Skills I or II
  • Propagation Skills I
  • Propagation Skills II
  • Floral Design

Note: Course offerings vary each term.

Vocational Skills

Vocational Skills courses are developmental-level, non-credit courses designed to develop workplace skills that can lead to competitive, entry-level employment and enhance everyday living skills. Most courses meet two days a week, two hours a day for eight weeks on campus in Glen Ellyn. The students are integrated into the College of DuPage campus life by being supported through the student services that are afforded to all COD students. Read More

Literacy Skills

For students interested in building fundamental reading and writing skills, we offer Literacy classes. In a small group setting based on ability level, students develop reading and writing skills and have the opportunity to advance through the curriculum at their own pace. Learn More

Reach Out

Aimed at building life skills, Reach Out courses help students develop independence and self-advocacy abilities. Topics covered include living independently, communication skills, current events, managing money, nutrition and health, decision making and goal setting. Learn More

COACH – Career Opportunity ACHievement

COACH is a two-year (four-term), cohort program for adults with mild intellectual or developmental disabilities. COACH has been developed to provide post-transition students with additional educational training aimed at preparing them for meaningful employment. Learn More

Resources

The following are additional resources for adults with disabilities.

Contact Information

Tracy Kline, Program Coordinator
(630) 942-3779
Email: klinet940@cod.edu

Continuing Education
Student Resource Center (SRC), Room 1110
(630) 942-2208
Email: ce@cod.edu
Fax: (630) 942-3785