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.

Extended Learning Division (Emeritus & Adult Ed.) Classes 

Click the LIVE Links below for the SUMMER 26 or FALL 26 Schedule:

LIVE Summer 2026 Schedule

LIVE Fall 2026 Schedule

Or click below for the SUMMER 26 Emeritus Institute printed catalog of the Schedule of Classes. 

Summer 2026 Emeritus printed catalog  
NOTE: Copies are available on the Saddleback College campus and at the Emeritus teaching sites!

New! Beginning Fall 2026

The Extended Learning Division's printed class catalog now features both the Emeritus Institute and the Adult Education classes! Click below for the first edition!

Fall 2026 Extended Learning printed catalog

NOTE: The printed catalogs are available on the Saddleback College campus and at our teaching partner sites.

Summer Session Dates: June 1 - July 26
  • Registration Time Tickets (Appointments) posted in MySite Banner:  Early April.
  • Emeritus Students' Registration began on April 22 and is ongoing.
Fall Semester Dates: August 17 - December 16
  • Registration Time Tickets (Appointments) posted in MySite Banner:  April 20.
  • Continuing Emeritus Students' Registration Dates:  June 8 - 9 and ongoing.

Apply and Register

For assistance with Registration, call or visit the SC Admissions & Records (A&R) Office.

  • A&R Hours of Operation:
    • Monday - Thursday: 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
    • Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
  • A&R Phone:  (949) 582-4555 x 0
  • A&R office is located at: 
    • The Gateway Building 130
      Saddleback College
      28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, CA 92692
    • The Gateway Building is closest to the college entrance at Medical Center Drive and Marguerite Parkway cross streets. Once you enter the campus, take the first right, then take 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  $2- $3 parking fee).  Enter the Gateway building at the glass double doors. Walk straight ahead to the A&R Check-In Desk (follow the bank of computers in the center). The Check-in desk will be on the right, just before the stairs. 

For additional HELP WITH REGISTRATION, choose from the following tools:

Fall 26 Emeritus Institute IN-PERSON Registration 
Locations & Dates:

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