Community Colleges in Akron, Ohio Offering Evening Classes: Your Practical Guide
Working full-time and trying to earn a degree or certification in Akron isn’t easy—but evening classes at community colleges make it possible. Whether you’re upgrading your skills for a promotion, starting a new career path, or finishing a degree you put on hold, Akron’s community college options are more flexible than most people realize. Here’s what you need to know about finding evening classes in Akron, Ohio that actually fit around your life.
Best Community Colleges in Akron, Ohio for Evening Classes
1. Stark State College – North Canton/Akron Area
Stark State is one of the most flexible community colleges serving the greater Akron region. They offer evening and hybrid courses across business, healthcare, IT, and skilled trades programs. Many classes run just two nights per week, making them manageable around a full work schedule.
2. Summit College at the University of Akron
Summit College is the University of Akron’s two-year division. It offers associate degrees and certificate programs in a wide range of fields with evening course options. Being part of a larger university means access to full campus resources—libraries, tutoring, and career services—at community college tuition rates.
3. Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) – Brunswick/Stow Campuses
Tri-C serves Cuyahoga County but has satellite locations that are accessible to Akron-area students. Their evening schedule is robust, and their online/hybrid offerings mean many Akron residents can access their programs without commuting far.
| College | Evening Programs | Best For |
| Stark State College | Business, IT, Healthcare | Career changers & upskilling |
| Summit College (UA) | Liberal Arts, Applied Science | Degree completion |
| Tri-C (satellite) | Trades, Business, Allied Health | Flexible hybrid learning |
What to Look for in Evening Classes in Akron
- Class times: True evening courses run 5:30–9:30 PM. Check whether ‘evening’ means 4 PM, which doesn’t work for most 9-to-5 workers.
- Hybrid vs. fully in-person: Hybrid classes require fewer on-campus visits—often just once a week.
- Course delivery format: Asynchronous online courses let you work at your own pace within weekly deadlines.
- Financial aid availability: FAFSA applies to all accredited community colleges. Many Akron-area students qualify for the Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG).
Pro Tips for Evening College Students in Akron
- Register early. Evening sections fill faster than day sections because working adults compete for the same limited spots.
- Talk to an academic advisor before your first semester. A single advising session can save you from taking courses you don’t need.
- Look into employer tuition assistance. Many Akron-area employers—including healthcare systems and manufacturers—offer reimbursement for job-related coursework.
- Use the library strategically. Campus libraries at Summit College and Stark State extend their hours during evenings. Plan study sessions around your class schedule.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading your first semester. Two evening courses while working full-time is typically manageable; three gets difficult fast.
- Waiting until the last minute for financial aid. FAFSA processing takes weeks. Start early so aid is in place before classes begin.
- Skipping orientation resources. Community college orientations give you practical shortcuts—parking, portal access, library systems—that save real time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do evening classes cost at community colleges in Akron?
Stark State tuition runs approximately $170–$190 per credit hour for in-district students. Summit College at UA is slightly higher at around $200–$220 per credit hour. Financial aid can significantly reduce these costs.
Can I take only evening classes and complete a full degree?
Yes—both Stark State and Summit College structure programs so students can complete associate degrees taking only evening or hybrid courses, though it typically takes 3–4 years at that pace.
Do Akron community colleges offer online evening classes?
Yes. Both Stark State and Summit College offer asynchronous online courses that work around evening schedules. Tri-C also has strong online programming accessible to Akron-area students.
Conclusion
Evening classes at community colleges in the Akron area are more available and more flexible than they were a decade ago. Start at Stark State or Summit College, speak with an advisor about your specific goals, and apply for financial aid early. You don’t have to choose between working and learning—evening options in Akron make both possible.
