The mission of the Saddleback College Emeritus Institute is to promote lifelong learning by providing academically rigorous, mentally stimulating, socially engaging, and health-improving courses for older adults throughout South Orange County. 

Welcome to the Saddleback College Emeritus Institute 

Discover a world of lifelong learning at the Saddleback College Emeritus Institute. Established in 1976, our program offers a diverse range of high-quality, tuition-free classes offered throughout South Orange County and online. Explore your academic and personal interests in over 30 disciplines designed for adult lifelong learners. Be part of the vibrant community at the Saddleback College Emeritus Institute — where learning never stops!

Get started with Emeritus

Emeritus Institute Faculty

At the Saddleback College Emeritus Institute, we are proud to be home to an exceptional team of faculty who are both highly educated in their fields and deeply committed to the mission of lifelong learning for older adults. Faculty combine their academic achievements with real-world experience, ensuring that every class offers both depth and relevance. Beyond their qualifications, our faculty members are passionate about fostering a learning environment that values inclusivity, curiosity, and personal growth.

Here in the Emeritus Institute, our faculty work to ensure that every student feels welcomed, supported, and inspired. Whether exploring the arts, sciences, history, health, or technology, our instructors guide students in their pursuit of knowledge and self-discovery. 

Classes

Click below to view and/or print the Extended Learning Division (Emeritus) Schedule. Printed copies of the catalog are available on the Saddleback College campus and at our partner sites. 

Click the link below for the live FALL 2026 online Schedule:

LIVE Fall 2026 Schedule

NEW! The FALL Extended Learning Division catalog features both the Emeritus Institute and the Adult Education classes!

Click below to view/print the paper Extended Learning Division Fall 2026 Schedule. Printed copies are available on the Saddleback College campus and at our facility partner sites.

Fall 2026 Extended Learning Catalog (Emeritus and Adult Ed.)

Apply and Register

If you are NEW or RETURNING (you have not enrolled in a class for 2 or more semesters), start by completing the Application. After you've completed the application, watch your email for an important notice from scadmissions@saddleback.edu notifying you that your application has been processed!  Follow the "next steps" described in the email to proceed to registration for classes.

If you are a CONTINUING student (you are currently enrolled in classes and wish to enroll in the next term's upcoming classes), begin at "Step 3: Register for classes."

Call or visit the SC Admissions & Records Office

  • (949) 582-4555 x 0 
  • Admissions & Records Office, Gateway 130
    Saddleback College
    28000 Marguerite Parkway
    Mission Viejo, CA 92692

Hours of Operation

  • Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays: 8:30 a.m. - 6: p.m.
  • Wednesdays: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Fridays: 8:30 a.m . - 3: p.m.

Finding Your Way

  • The Gateway Building is closest to the college entrance at Medical Center Drive and Marguerite Parkway cross streets. Once you enter the campus, take your first right, then an immediate left into a large parking lot in front of the Gateway Building. Park in the first row (Guest Parking). Make note of your parking spot and proceed to the Parking Kiosk (to pay a small parking fee). Enter through the glass double doors. Walk straight ahead to the A&R Check-In Desk (follow the bank of computers in the center of the hallway). The A&R Check-In Desk is on the right, just before the stairs. 

Additional tools for Help with Registration 

Our Commitment to You

At the Saddleback College Emeritus Institute, our faculty and staff are dedicated to fostering a welcoming and respectful community where every student feels appreciated and supported.

Through attentive service and compassionate instruction, we strive to create a space where everyone belongs and can thrive. Our focus is on providing the guidance, resources, and encouragement you need to pursue your goals and enrich your life.

Your growth is our mission, and we are here to support you at every step of your educational journey.

More About the Emeritus Institute

Contact the Emeritus Institute