MiraCosta Community College has been the primary provider of adult education for the communities of Oceanside and Carlsbad since the early 1970s, and since 2016 has been the sole provider of adult education in the Coastal North County Adult Education Consortium. Program areas include adult high school, English as a Second Language (ESL), and short-term vocational as well as courses designed for adults with disabilities. Adults can take classes at the Community Learning Center (CLC) in Oceanside or at one of the more than 20 different offsite locations throughout the CNCAEC service area; select classes are also offered in an online learning environment.

The Noncredit ESL program offers seven levels of instruction along with conversation, reading and writing, and computers and digital literacy courses all designed for students who want to improve their English skills in order to advance their careers and fulfill personal goals. In addition, the Career-Track ESL class is designed to prepare ESL students for employment and career education certification programs.

Citizenship instruction is offered in our Community Learning Lab at the CLC. This is an open entry/open exit course with a combination of technology assisted- and teacher-led instruction. Students work at their own pace and proficiency level on Canvas, a course management system, on assignments that prepare them for every part of the naturalization process. Instructors provide online and in-person feedback and are available to answer questions and assist students directly. Students prepare for the citizenship interview by role-playing with a CIS examiner.

The Adult High School is designed for any adult student who wishes to earn a high school diploma, prepare for a GED/HiSet exam, or who desires a review of basic English, math and/or academic skills in preparation for higher education, career education, or job improvement.

Adults with Disabilities courses are designed for adults with intellectual disabilities focusing on life, social, and workplace skills.

Short-Term Vocational courses provide students with business office technology skills and other workforce preparation skills leading to improved employability and job placement opportunities.

MiraCosta College Continuing Education students have access to a wide variety of supportive services including noncredit counselors, a noncredit career services specialist, and academic support centers including tutoring and library services. All classes are offered free of charge and are open to any adult living in California.