Frequently Asked Questions

Class schedule

FAQs

What does Section A/Section B mean?

Due to the popularity of a class, we will sometimes offer more than one section of the class. The sections are repeats of the same class with no difference in content. You do not need to register for both sections.
Do you offer a "senior discount" for Community Education classes?

We are not able to offer a senior discount. Community & Continuing Education is a self-supporting program and does not receive state funds. We are not in a position to offer discounts but we do everything we can to make our classes affordable to lifelong learners of all ages.
Does Community & Continuing Education offer scholarships for classes?

No. Because our program is self-supporting and does not receive state funds, we are not able to offer scholarships other than for our Kids' College and Teen Programs held during quarter.
How do I know if a class is full?

When you register for a class, our online registration will indicate whether space is available. You are also welcome to call us anytime Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., to find out if a class you are interested is still open. Even if the class is full, you can add yourself to the waiting list online, or call us and we can place your name on a waiting list. Registered students often cancel before the start date of classes, and we notify those on the waitlist in the order their names were taken.

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Registering for classes

FAQs

Can I pay my registration fee when I show up for the class?

Due to state regulations, instructors are not permitted to collect registration fees for classes. You must register and pay before the class starts.
Why do you ask for my birth date?

In 2003, the State of Washington passed new privacy laws that no longer allow state institutions to collect social security numbers as a primary identification number. While this was a positive change in terms of privacy protection, it makes it difficult for us to identify students, many of whom share the same names. By asking for your birth date, we are able to identify you more easily and make sure we are registering the right person! Nonetheless, supplying your date of birth is entirely optional.
I'm worried about my personal information. Do you sell or distribute information about your students?

State law prevents Community & Continuing Education from sharing your information with any organization outside the college. We are required to limit our access to student data and to use it sparingly. We cannot even discuss anything about you with a spouse or parent. On occasion, Community & Continuing Education will send information related to new classes and programs to your address. We can remove your name and address from this promotional list upon request.
How do I cancel my registration for a class?
The following guidelines are used to determine cancellations and refunds:
- Full refunds will be issued to all participants if Community & Continuing Education must cancel a class due to low enrollment.
- To cancel a registration, please contact Community & Continuing Education at least seven calendar days prior to the class. You will be issued a full refund.
- If you cancel a registration less than seven calendar days prior to the class, you are entitled to a credit voucher, less a 10 percent administrative fee, that you can apply towards any Community & Continuing Education class offered within six months of the date of credit. Please note: a credit voucher may not be exchanged for a cash refund.
- NO REFUNDS or CREDITS will be given for a class once it has started. Refunds based on special circumstances must be requested in writing and are not guaranteed.
- To cancel your registration, please contact us at comed@whatcom.edu or 360.383.3200.
How do waiting lists work?

A waiting list is begun for any class that reaches maximum capacity. If a space in the class becomes available, we will contact people on the waiting list in the order their names were taken. People on waiting lists are also given the opportunity to register for any subsequent repeat of the class before schedule information is made public.
If I am on a waiting list, should I come to class to see if the instructor will let me in?

No. Instructors are allowed to admit into class only those students whose names appear on the roster. Please do not attend class unless you have received notification that space is available from Community & Continuing Education.
Can I just sit in on a class with my friend or partner?

Community & Continuing Education does not permit students to bring friends or partners to class unless they have also registered.
What is the last day I can register for a class?

You may register up to the start day of the class. We recommend, however, that you register early since many of our workshops fill quickly. Your timely registration could also be the one that allows us to meet the enrollment minimum and run the class.

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Classes

FAQs

I'm not sure if I'll be able to take a class. Can I just show up?

You must register before the class starts to be enrolled. Many of our classes run with the maximum number of students. If you simply show-up, and the class is full, you will not be allowed to participate. More importantly, if you do not register in advance, we may be forced to cancel a class due to low enrollment and your registration may have been the one that allowed the class to run.
If a class was too easy or too difficult for me, can I get a refund or take a different class?

Sometimes students will find that they are in the wrong level of class. We can refund your fee or allow you to take a different class only if you leave before the midpoint of the first class. Just let the instructor know that you are leaving and contact Community & Continuing Education the next business day. We will be happy to help place you in the right class for your needs.
What is the minimum number of students required for a class to run?

Minimum enrollment varies from class to class. Community & Continuing Education makes every effort to plan classes in such a way that they can run even with a small number of students. It is important, however, that you not wait until the last minute to register. Classes with low enrollment may be cancelled and your registration could be the one that allows the class to run.

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Children in class

FAQs

What age does a person need to be to take Community & Continuing Education classes?

Unless a class is specifically designated for children, the minimum age for enrollment is 18. Parents should be aware that classes are designed for adults and there is no supervision of children before, during, or after workshops.
Can I bring my child to class with me?

Children of any age, including infants, are not allowed in Community & Continuing Education classes unless they are specifically designed for children. We also ask that you not leave your child on campus unattended.
Does Community & Continuing Education offer childcare?

Whatcom Community College does not have drop-in child care services for Community & Continuing Education classes.

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Books & supplies

FAQs

Where can I purchase required books for class?

Books are available at the Whatcom Community College Bookstore located in the Syre Student Center. Bookstore personnel will be able to show you the section designated for Community & Continuing Education. Books for language classes may also be available at other bookstores.

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