Understand the most efficient and effective ways to obtain income from your investments during retirement to make sure the money lasts! Learn to structure your assets so that they can be passed on to your heirs in a tax-efficient way. Students discuss the most common mistakes that retirees make with their finances and learn how to avoid them. Finally, learn how to create a legacy for your family, a charity, or any other cause that you are passionate about. 14 hours.

This young driver intervention program, targets drivers between the ages of 18 and 24 — the group most likely to be involved in fatal collisions. Practice saving lives through education about proper conduct and safe driving techniques when operating a motor vehicle. This highly interactive program teaches young drivers how to take control of situations by taking responsibility for their own driving behavior. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed.) 4 hours.

Students complete a pieced and quilted project in time for the holidays. Sewing is done by hand and machine. Appliqué basics are included; however, no sewing experience is necessary. Students select a project based on skill level and time available to sew at home. The 8 class sessions meet over an 11-week time period to allow for sewing at home. Students bring their own sewing machine for classes 3 through 8. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed. Additional expenses may be incurred in purchasing materials for participant projects.) 24 hours.   

Students learn the Italic style of calligraphy. This course is for the absolute beginner or those with previous experience seeking to refresh their skills. The only requirements are a desire to work in this medium and a calligraphy pen with three nibs. 16 hours.

This course continues to develop students’ social swing dancing. We will cover classic moves from 1930’s Lindy Hop, the original swing dance which developed from Charleston. Students are required to attend two dances during the semester. Please wear comfortable shoes. Some partnered dance experience is strongly required. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed. Additional expenses may be incurred.) 12 hours.

This course introduces students to social swing dancing. Basic 20's and 30's Charleston steps and movement concepts are covered as well as the history behind the dance and music. Students are required to attend two dances during the semester. Please wear comfortable shoes. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed. Additional expenses may be incurred.) 12 hours.

This course is targeted to beginners. The course focuses on a different topic each week, including alignment of the body in postures, positive thinking, breathing exercises, philosophy, basic anatomy, deep relaxation, and asana (practice of postures). The class emphasizes both the principles of yoga as well as stress management, breathing techniques, and postures. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed.) 18 hours.

NEW! Biodiesel Workshop – FREE!

Biodiesel is a cleaner burning alternative fuel that is produced from fat or vegetable oil, including N.C.-grown field crops such as soybeans and corn. The use of biodiesel rather than petroleum diesel benefits the environment, energy security, and the economy with a standardized high quality renewable fuel. 

Find out how to run your tractor and other vehicles on biodiesel. This workshop is sponsored by N.C. BioNetwork – BioAg Center and Piedmont BioFuels. The day’s event includes a one-hour lecture, along with hands-on demonstrations provided through the Piedmont BioFuels traveling demonstration trailer. Space is limited for this free demonstration.

This interactive class teaches students about the financial services profession and general investing strategies. Students discuss the pros and cons of investing, including the reasons to invest along with the risks involved. Learn about stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and annuities as well as the types of accounts available, such as IRAs, ROTH IRAs, and 401(k)s. Gain exposure and knowledge about requirements for working in the financial services industry, in addition to a better understanding of the strategies and benefits of helping yourself and others reach their financial goals. 14 hours.

In this introductory course, participants become familiar with paper, cloth, board materials, and basic bookbinding techniques. Make functional journals, sketchbooks, and photo albums that are visual art objects, such as artist books and altered books. Students learn simple printmaking techniques, which are used to create visual content. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed.) 15 hours.

An inquisitive mind, appreciation for quality and detail, enjoyment of working with others, willingness to be open-minded to learning something new and exciting are all you need to enroll today! Experience the hands-on journey of producing window treatments, completing small upholstery projects, learning furniture design, understanding color and lighting, understanding the characteristics of fabrics, and “de-clutterization.” Each student is required to build, design, and decorate a small model home (30"x18"), using all knowledge and concepts acquired during the class. No prerequisites required but basic sewing knowledge is a plus. 15 hours.

With the ease of digital photography, more photos are being taken, and more images are being stored on our computers. However, fewer photos are printed and enjoyed than ever before! Many of our images are in digital disarray! Master how to use organizational and editing software for your digital images, set up the software, organize images, search for images, edit your images, and make original digital photo books/digital scrapbooking for an elegant method to display your photos. Includes digital organizational and editing software Memory Manager TM (Creative Memories), and software for digital scrap-booking. Software is ONLY PC compatible. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed.) 12 hours.

Tap into the artistic side of your brain. Learn about right and left hemisphere functions while learning to draw. Class activities develop creativity in the student. Students must provide their own materials. 15 hours.

This course is targeted at developing and sharpening educator skills to more fully understand and better address the needs and cultural backgrounds of multicultural students. Techniques are used to focus on increasing sensitivity and awareness, successful verbal and non-verbal communication with language minority students, systematic design of instructions for diverse learners, and a methodology of engaging those students in active learning and meaningful real-world activities. 30 hours.

Explore basic knowledge of the history, epidemiology, treatment, social factors, and current policy surrounding the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The course examines issues pertaining to sexually transmitted infections, substance abuse, new diagnosis, transmission, disclosure, and other psychological and social factors affecting the spread of HIV/AIDS. Course objectives are achieved through course readings, audio visual presentations, discussion, and lectures. Internet access, email, Adobe Acrobat reader, and Microsoft word usage are required. 20 hours.

Explore basic knowledge of psychological theory, current therapeutic interventions, popular research topics, and careers in psychology. Course goals allow examination of elements of biological, socio/cultural, and psychological elements of human behavior, cognition, and psychological development. Course objectives are achieved through course readings, audio visual presentations, discussion, and lectures. Internet access, email, Adobe Acrobat reader, and Microsoft word usage are required. 20 hours.

Learn the basics about crocheting, macramé, and knitting. Learn how to crochet. Knit one, pearl two… what does it all mean? Explore macramé and tie knots and half knots into either a necklace or bracelet. Tie hemp rope to make twists and flat knots. Learn how to tie accessories such as beads and shells into jewelry. Knitting is targeted for beginners. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed.) 15 hours.

This course is designed for those who would like to pursue a professional acting career in film or television.  Course topics include understanding techniques for appearing before a camera and preparing for TV and film auditions, including cold reads. The course explains the demands of an actor’s work-day including call time, makeup, wardrobe, reporting to set and working with agents, managers, and casting companies.  The student will learn how to overcome stage fright, fundamentals of good acting such as physical and vocal control, character development, script analysis, and understanding the basics of theatre. 36 hours.

We are deeply moved by the world around us. Learn the basics of how to work with paint to visually express the places you love. You may approach your painting from either a realistic direction or a more abstract vision. Also, study the work of other landscape painters in an effort to increase your awareness of how to paint. Students are responsible for supplying their own materials. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed.) 30 hours.

Want to go to Europe this summer? Come with us as we take a literary tour of Europe! Each week we will read a piece of literature from a different European country (in English, of course!). Meet fascinating characters and discuss these classics with other reading aficionados! Each work is on the shorter side and focuses on one main compelling character. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed.) 10 hours.

Treat yourself to exercise that is both healthy and fun with the hottest moves happening in the world of hip hop and Latin dancing. Learn some new moves in this beginner salsa and merengue dancing class. No prior experience required. Please sign up with your dancing partner. Arriba! (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed.) 12 hours.

Presentation will cover where energy comes from today, what the environmental costs are of using that energy, and what other solutions are available that can meet our needs while at the same time preserving our natural heritage. Students learn types of renewable energy available in North Carolina and where they are located. The N.C. Green Power program and what individuals can do to make a difference for a brighter future for North Carolina are also discussed.   

This presentation is offered at our new Orange County Campus in Hillsborough. The facility also includes green building features such as "daylighting" utilizing aluminum light shelves, photovoltaic systems, solar-assisted domestic water heating, rainwater collection and reuse — waterless urinals, and operable window vents in all classroom areas, all of which will help the building be more energy efficient and ecologically friendly. 2 hours.

This “journey” provides the student with critical information about the naturalization process, forms, and procedures for obtaining U.S. citizenship, including completion of a Naturalization N400 application. The required English, history, and civics information necessary to pass the immigration exam are reviewed through a series of lectures, simulations, discussions, audio visual aids, and demonstrations. 45 hours.

(Curso en inglés) Este "viaje" provee al estudiante de información critica sobre el proceso de nacionalización, los formularios y procedimientos para obtener la ciudadanía estadounidense, incluso el rellenar una solicitud de Nacionalización N400. Se repasarán el ingles requerido, la historia y educación cívica por una serie de clases, simulaciones, discusiones, medios audiovisuales y demonstraciones. 45 horas.

This course is designed to provide a comprehensive review of the mathematical and verbal concepts tested on graduate entrance exams such as the GRE and GMAT. These include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, word-problems, data analysis/sufficiency, and advanced vocabulary. This course also includes an overview of the format of these tests and test-taking techniques. Practice tests and computer-assisted tutorials are part of the instructional package. Textbooks required. Required Prerequisites: Students must have access to a computer, Microsoft Word for word processing, an Internet browser, a working email address, and be comfortable navigating the web. To register, email conedonline@durhamtech.edu. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed.) 44 hours.

Get the “jitters” when speaking in front of a group? This class is designed to familiarize students in a wide variety of business and daily-life situations. Learn to organize effectively, create speaking outlines, challenge nervousness, and communicate a message to your audience appropriately. Develop the confidence to deliver polished presentations anywhere! 24 hours.

Have fun learning to create a new wardrobe! Save money and dress in style as you learn to sew. Learn about pattern selection; choose an appropriate fabric, pattern layout, and construction; and develop skills to create a flattering garment. No sewing skills required. Students need to bring their own sewing machine the second night of class. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed. Additional expenses may be incurred in purchasing materials for participant projects.) 18 hours.

This is a great foundational course for learning the techniques and purpose of creative scrapbooking. Learn the tools of the trade and experience creating memories for a lifetime. Bring any supplies you have, plus bring six to eight photos of a single theme or event to create a page in your scrapbook. This class can also help you turn your love for scrapbooking into a profitable home-based business. Start-up costs are low. Discounts on high-quality and exclusive products are available, and there is excellent earning potential. Enjoy the tax benefits of owning your own business without the high costs of overhead, payroll, or employees. 15 hours.

We have done makeovers for homes and people; now give your business an extreme marketing makeover. This course is strategically designed for business owners who want to position their business to compete at a higher level while attracting larger and more profitable clients. These interactive sessions empower students to totally redevelop their company’s marketing concepts, map out new marketing objectives, and implement innovative practices that allow them to maximize their marketing efforts. At the end of this intense course, participants have an improved company image and a written plan for their new marketing vision. 24 hours.

Join the newest trend in the travel industry by learning to be an independent travel professional. Students learn about legal considerations, market strategies, and operating costs of being an independent agent. Go forward with an entrepreneurial spirit or learn about host and franchise opportunities. 12 hours.

This exciting decorative painting class designed especially for beginners gives people who have never held a paintbrush the chance to create beautiful decorative pieces and master the basic stroke skills to make common objects into treasured things of beauty. This course CAN teach anyone the basic skills of decorative painting. The registration fee includes a project kit. (Because this course is self-supporting, no tuition waivers or exemptions are allowed.) 24 hours.

Wine Appreciation – $100

Whether you are a food and wine lover thirsty for increased knowledge or a hospitality industry worker looking for new skills and greater job satisfaction, join Todd Wielar, owner of the Chapel Hill Wine Company and the Hillsborough Wine Company, as he takes you on a tour of the basics of wine. Learn how to taste, serve, store, open wine, and read a label. In addition, gain insight into the main grape varietals and the regions in which they grow. Students must be at least 21 years of age. 12 hours.

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