Personal Enrichment Classes at MCC
Learn a New Hobby or Grow Your Skills!
Focus on your personal enrichment.
Our noncredit programs give you access to a variety of courses.
With our offerings, you can:
- Grow your hobby skills
- Learn a new craft
- Explore something new
View the current course catalog.
Information available in an
alternate format upon request.
Digital Photography I
In this course you will learn how to shoot with your camera in manual mode with a
focus on how aperture, shutter speed and ISO affect how your images look, and how
to use Lightroom, a photo editing software. Students will shoot assignments outside
of class. Depending on the class size, class will be structured around instruction
on a new topic, students having time to cull & edit their images (using the software
Lightroom), and having a full class share/critique or an individual image review by
the instructor. The most useful part of classroom instruction will be review of photos
students have shot. Students need a DSLR Camera or a Mirrorless camera. An Adobe subscription
is recommended but not required: https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/photography/compare-plans.html
Instructor will provide instructions on options to choose the first day of class.
If you do not have an Adobe subscription it is recommended that you bring an USB flash
drive or external hard drive. Eligible for 50% tuition waiver for MCC employees. (18
hours) $265
Course Number: CAR 611 30 CRN: 19838
Dates: January 14 to February 25, 2025
Days/Times: Tuesdays 6pm - 9pm
Building/Room: Academic Resources, Room AR 108
No class on February 18
Instructor: WATANABE
Digital Photography II
This course builds on what was learned in Digital Photo 1. We review the basic concepts & practices of digital photography, focusing on compositional rules and lighting. We will delve more into the creative aspect of photography. We’ll also focus on finding your style & voice with your photography. Students will shoot assignments outside of class. Class will be structured around students having time to cull & edit their images (using the software Lightroom), having a full class share/critique & then instruction on a new topic. The most useful part of classroom instruction will be the review of photos students have shot. They will see what makes a successful photo and what does not. Students need an SLR Digital Camera or Mirrorless Camera. An Adobe subscription is recommended but not required: https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/photography/compare-plans.html Instructor will provide instructions on what option choose on the first day of class if there is any uncertainty. If you do not have an Adobe subscription it is recommended that you bring an USB flash drive or external hard drive. Eligible for 50% tuition waiver for MCC employees. (18 hours) $265
Course Number: CAR 612 30 CRN: 19839
Dates: March 18 to April 29, 2025
Days/Times: Tuesdays 6pm - 9pm
Building/Room: Academic Resources, Room AR 108
No Class on April 22
Instructor: WATANABE
Intro to Expressive Watercolor
Embark on a journey with Bethany Peck's beginner watercolor class, the perfect opportunity to dive into the whimsical world of watercolor painting. Designed to help you grasp the basics of watercolor and build a strong foundation for your artistic pursuits. Learn essential skills such as understanding values and color mixing. Learn the ins and outs of watercolor equipment while obtaining a solid understanding of the tools necessary to bring your artistic visions to life. Explore mixing various colors allowing you to create vibrant hues that truly stand out! We will take you on a journey to paint enchanting watercolor landscapes and still life. Bring the following: Basic watercolor set, watercolor brushes in an assortment of widths, pad of watercolor paper, paper towels, masking tape, pencil, cup for water. Instructor will have some materials students may borrow or purchase if needed. (10 hours) $155
4/23-5/21 6:00pm-8:00pm Wednesday
Bedford Campus North Academic, room G-17
Course Number: PER 581 30 CRN: 20308
Professor: KALABOKIS
Popsicle Stick Art for Adults
Use your creativity and explore the numerous possibilities of crafting with popsicle
sticks in this fun and interactive course. Whether you are a beginner or more experienced
crafter, in this class, students will bring their imagination and create fun projects
while developing skills in design, painting, and decorating. Students will craft mini
houses, boats, name easels, and other small creative projects of their choice. An
additional materials fee of $20 is payable to the instructor on the first class.
(15 hours) $139
02/27 - 05/01 6:30pm - 8:00pm Thursday
Bedford Campus Building: North Academic Room: G17
Course Number: PER 608 31 CRN: 20405
Professor: KHALIFIA
Cooking with Cannabis
This class is a beginner’s guide to making cannabis infused foods or beverages using
different carrier oils such as vegetable base glycerin, coconut oil, butter and more!
We will focus on milligram dosage, creating infused products that are not alluring
to children along with the importance of labeling and storage. Pre-req: Must be
21+ to attend. Demonstration only via Zoom. Taught by a Responsible Vendor Trainer,
Green Path Training, Ellen Brown. Cannabis recipes include: Hard Candy Demo, Brownie
Demo and Gummies. Not eligible for waivers. (2 Hours) $90
3/20 4:00pm-6:00pm Thursday
Online with class meeting times
Course Number PER 580 75 CRN: 20326
Indian Cooking Made Easy
This class starts with an introduction to the “masala dabba” or a spice box that houses
the commonly used spices in Indian cooking. Learn about the spices and spice mixes
from sourcing to storing them and the tips and techniques for using them in authentic
Indian recipes. With step-by-step guidance, together we will make fragrant and fluffy
Basmati rice, scrumptious Chana masala-chickpea curry made with aromatics and spices,
and flavorful, protein-rich Tadka Dal. All skill levels welcome. This fun, interactive
class will help you gain the knowledge and confidence to recreate these recipes in
your own kitchen. We will sample our creations at the end of class. Class held in
Lexington at Instructor’s professional home kitchen. $39 Materials fee payable to
instructor in advance by check or Venmo. (2.5 hours) $79
3/20 6:00pm - 8:30pm Thursday
Off Campus Lexington MA Directions will be provided
Course Number: PER 506 33 CRN: 20386
Professor: NADKARNI
Indian Cooking Using the Instant Pot
In this interactive class, we will make a hearty, delectable Curried Lentil Soup with
carrots, spinach and coconut milk and savor a one pot meal of mouthwatering Basmati
Rice Pullav with veggies. Learn about the ingredients, spices and spice mixes, from
sourcing to storing them, the tips and techniques that will help you gain the confidence
to recreate these recipes on a regular menu rotation. This class is a two for one!
Get to know the Instant Pot and how to make authentic, flavorful and timesaving Indian
dishes using the Instant Pot. We will sample and discuss our creations at the end
of class. All skill levels welcome. Class held in Lexington at instructor’s professional
home kitchen. Materials fee of $39 payable to the instructor in advance by check or
Venmo. (2.5 Hours) $79
4/3 6:00pm - 8:30pm Thursday
Off Campus Lexington MA Directions will be provided
Course Number: PER 507 33 CRN: 20387
Professor: NADKARNI
New! Creative Cupcakes (Ages 10-14)
Get inspired! Students will learn different techniques for decorating cupcakes. Each
student will decorate and take home 9 cupcakes and take home a recipe card for them
to recreate their masterpieces at home! Materials fee of $25 per student is due to
instructor at class. (3 hours) $63
2/21 9:00am-12:00pm Friday
Bedford Campus
Building: North Academic, room G17
Course Number: YTH 837 30 CRN: 20421
Professor: HATZIANDREAU
New! Cake Pop Class (Ages 10-14)
New! Learn how to make “Ice Cream Cone” cake pops! Each student will shape, prepare
and decorate 6 cake pops to take home as well as a recipe card to make this treat
at home. A material fee of $35 per student is payable to the instructor at class.
(3 hours) $63
4/25 9:00am-12:00pm Friday
Bedford Campus Building: North Academic, room G17
Course Number: YTH 838 30 CRN: 20422
Professor: HATZIANDREAU
Accounting/Bookkeeping Fundamentals
Learn essential terms and concepts for starting an accounting system, understand debits
and credits, classify items as assets, liabilities, equity, revenue/sales and expenditures.
Use practice scenarios and complete basic procedures such as journalizing entries
and posting transactions to a general ledger. Explore the bookkeeping and accounting
cycle, cash systems, create and understand financial reports. Learn to create a Trial
Balance and Post- Closing Trial Balance, understand an Income Statement and Balance
Sheet as well as adjusting entries and bank statement reconciliation. To receive a
course Certificate of Completion, students are required to show course competencies
through short assessments. This professional development class does not have a pre-req.
(30 hours) $565 for the course.
An additional $109 fee for course materials that students are required to purchased
the first day of class.
Wednesday: January 29 to April 2, 2025
Time: 5:30p - 8:45p
Course Number: CAR 797 75 CRN 17351
Online via Zoom
Professor: SHARMA
No class on March 19
Intro to QuickBooks Online – Course Number EDG 928
In this ONLINE course in partnership with Ed2go, you will Learn to reconcile your
checking account and manage credit card and loan payments; create and print invoices,
receipts, and statements; track your payables, inventory, and receivables; create
estimates; generate reports; and much more. When your course starts, you will be directed
to access and utilize the free QuickBooks Online practice site to complete lessons
and assignments. You do not need to purchase a subscription or additional software.
Please note that this course is suitable only for the QuickBooks Online version. The
desktop versions of QuickBooks are not compatible with this course and should not
be used. Classes begin monthly. $180 Tuition. 24 hours. Not eligible for tuition waivers.
EDG 928
Registration and payment is through Ed2go: https://www.ed2go.com/mcc/online-courses/quickbooks-online/#tab_requirements
Successfully complete both Accounting Fundaments and Online QuickBooks for a certificate of completion
Intro To Floral Design
Join Cindy Mattson of Given Erwin Florist! We will cover the principles and elements of Floral Design, as well as fresh flower care and handling. A hands-on workshop will be included in each session. All flowers, materials, and tools will be provided you can take home each project. No experience necessary! While this is more of an educational program, the atmosphere is casual and the material we will work with is lovely. We will use a different combination of florals each week. Topics covered: Harmony and Unity; Proportion and Scale; Rhythm and Emphasis; Balance and Symmetry. Materials fee of $125 is payable to the instructor via cash, check, or Venmo. Ms. Mattson is accredited as an American Institute of Floral Design member. (10 hours) $109. Choose from 2 sessions.
1/13 - 02/10 6:00pm - 8:30pm Monday
Course Number: PER 783 30 CRN: 18766
Bedford Campus Building: North Academic, room NA-G17
Professor: MATTSON No class 1/20
3/31-4/28 6:00pm - 8:30pm Monday
Course Number: PER 783 31 CRN: 20399
Bedford Campus Building: North Academic, room NA-G17
Professor: MATTSON No class 4/21
Intro to Floral Design II
We will continue to explore the principles and elements of floral design in this 2nd portion of Basic Floral Design using the tools learned in Part 1. You will be shown different techniques applied to floral design and will have hands-on experience using fresh material and interesting supplies. Each week we will focus on a specific theme, principle, or element. You will have an opportunity to demonstrate your version of that design. Materials fee of $125 is payable to the instructor via cash, check or Venmo. Ms. Mattson is accredited as an American Institute of Floral Design member. Prerequisite: Completion of Intro to Floral Design 1. (10 hours) $109.
03/03 - 03/24 6:00pm - 8:30pm Monday
Bedford Campus Building: North Academic, room G17
Course Number: PER 950 30 CRN: 19905
Professor: MATTSON
Mother's Day Floral Arrangement
Mom Said, “Bring Home Flowers”. As the saying goes, when Mom is happy, everyone is happy. Out do your siblings and make her proud, by bringing her a fresh arrangement you made yourself. We supply everything you’ll need, including flowers, materials and tools. You don’ t need experience, we walk you through, step-by-step. Classes are fun and low key! Materials fee of $30 is payable to the instructor at the first class via cash, check or Venmo. Ms. Mattson is accredited as an American Institute of Floral Design member. (2 hours) $39
5/05 6:00pm - 8:00pm Monday
Campus: Bedford Building: North Academic, room G17
Course Number: PER 785 30 CRN: 18768
Professor: MATTSON
Spring Has Sprung Floral Arrangement
This cheery bouquet will brighten anyone’s day. Give as a gift or use it as a pretty table piece for your Spring Holiday or every day. An assortment of the freshest spring flowers and colors will be included. Materials fee of $50 is payable to the instructor via cash, check or Venmo payable to instructor at class.(2 hours) $39
4/18 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Bedford Campus Building: North Academic Room G17
Course Number: PER 784 30 CRN: 18767
Professor: MATTSON
Beginning Conversational French
Discover how easy learning simple words and phrases for leisure and business can be.
The Beginning Conversational French course makes pronunciation simple, with phonetic
spellings for every word and phrase you need to learn French. This online course even
includes audio so that you can hear and practice the language with little more than
a click of your mouse! You will also learn cultural tips in each lesson that will
make you more comfortable in a foreign setting. The skills you obtain will not only
allow you to carry on a French conversation with ease but become prepared to speak
French in a wide variety of settings and situations. Classes begin monthly. $150.
24 hours Course is online through Ed2go. Not eligible for waivers.
EDG 640
Enrollment and payment are through Ed2go: https://www.ed2go.com/mcc/online-courses/conversational-french-beginner/
Discover Sign Language
In this online course, discover sign language and learn to communicate with using
your hands with American Sign Language (ASL).
Learn to fingerspell the alphabet, sign colors, numbers, objects. You will acquire a wide range of useful, everyday vocabulary that will enable you to engage in meaningful conversations. Using video demonstrations, you will understand how to form correct signs and incorporate facial expressions to communicate beautifully in sign language.
Explore the history and usage of American Sign Language (ASL) and how to navigate the culture and social customs. By the end, you will be confident and ready to participate in a conversation using the power of sign language.(24 hours). $150. Not eligible for waivers. Enrollment and payment are through
EDG 955 Ed2go:
https://www.ed2go.com/mcc/online-courses/learn-sign-language/
Improve your English Pronunciation & Conversation Skills
This class focuses on developing precise pronunciation in English. There are targeted practice areas for phonemes, word stress, grammatical endings, sentence stress, and intonation. During the practice areas, there are opportunities to perform dialogues for analysis, and free speaking. During free speaking, students focus on developing academic discussion habits. (10 hours) $299
February 14 to March 28 Friday
9:00am - 11:00am Bedford campus
Building: Enrollment Center, room 210
No class: 3/7 & 3/21
Course Number: CAR 510-30 CRN 20410
Professor: Drislane
Instant Italian
This dynamic course will teach you how to express yourself comfortably in Italian.
You'll learn practical, everyday words. You'll read, hear, and practice dialogues
based on typical situations that you're likely to encounter if you plan to vacation
in Italy.
Essential words and phrases are written phonetically by using sounds that are familiar
to you from English words. The audio feature lets you hear the words and phrases spoken
aloud with just a click of your mouse. Short exercises are included with each lesson
to help you reinforce what you've learned and gauge your progress, making it easy
to pinpoint areas that you still need to review. The exercises also give you immediate
feedback—you'll know whether you answered correctly as soon as you finish.
By the end of the course, you will know how to ask for help, ask directions, navigate Italian shops, book a hotel room, order a meal, and much more! Cultural notes are included throughout the course to help you better understand Italians and their way of life. Classes begin monthly. $150. 24 hours. Course is online through Ed2go. Not eligible for waivers.
EDG 829
Enrollment and payment are through Ed2go.
https://www.ed2go.com/mcc/online-courses/instant-italian/
Spanish for Beginners
Introduction to Spanish is an interactive, fun class intended for those with little or no knowledge of the language. Its aim is to present essential vocabulary, grammar, and to develop the speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills necessary for basic communication and comprehension. You will have the opportunity to practice and apply what you learn in conversation and enjoy getting to know your fellow classmates while doing so. Communicative class activities will include pair and group work, interviews and roleplaying. We will also introduce you to Spanish customs and culture! $269.
Wednesday, January 29 to May 7, 2025
5:30pm - 6:30pm
Online via Zoom
Course Number PER 645-75 CRN: 20318
Professor: HOYES
A Homeowner's Guide to Selecting Interior Paint Color
This fun and interactive class provides an introduction to selecting interior paint
colors for your home. You’ll learn how to read the undertones of paint colors, address
challenges in selecting the right shades and get ideas for incorporating color to
enhance the overall design, look and feel of your home. Have your questions answered
and share photos of your interior designs, and you’ll leave with confidence in how
to approach the selection of paint colors for your next project. Price includes materials.
Enroll by 2/12. Instructor Sue O’Connell, a Boston-based Architectural Color Consultant,
has worked on numerous residential projects, selecting color schemes for a variety
of architecture. (1.5 hours) $65
2/26 7:00pm-8:30pm Wednesday
Online with class meeting times
Course Number: PER 583 30 CRN: 20317
Professor: O’CONNELL
FAA Remote Pilot Certification
This program will cover the required knowledge content areas of the FAA’s Remote Pilot
Testing including: Regulations, The National Airspace System, Weather, Aircraft Loading
and Performance, and Flight Operations. Upon completion, students should feel qualified
to take the FAA Remote Pilot Test.
Practice Questions will also be a key factor of this course.
A third day is also included that will focus on the safe UAS operations in the field
while operating advanced training drones in various exercises. Course participants
will also learn about key safety features of certain models of UAS’s as well as how
to develop and follow sound checklist procedures and maintenance protocols. (21 hours)
$650
Saturday, February 15, 22, March 1, 2025
9:00am - 4:00pm
Middlesex Community College
591 Springs Road, Bedford, MA
Course Number CAR 974 30 CRN 20235
Building: North Academic
Room: NA 217
Instructor: The February/March program is taught by Aviation and UAS industry expert,
David Price.
Interior Design 101
Learn how to design like a pro! Learn how to choose paint color and redesign a space
with existing furniture. Discover how to incorporate charming and heirloom items into
a new room design without being dated. Many topics will be covered such as; repurposing
furniture, learning how to measure a room for proper furniture size as well as sizing
area rugs to use in a space. Elements we will address are: Lighting size and placement,
measuring for window treatments, fabrics, scale and custom vs. ready- made. Design
theory, furniture placement and how to design a room from scratch. Not eligible for
waivers. (6 hours) $399
1/21-2/25 6:00pm–7:00pm Tuesday
Online with class meeting times
Course Number: PER 999 75 CRN: 20017
Professor: DALEY
Intro to Backyard Beekeeping
This introductory course will give an overview and will prepare you for the excitement and challenges of backyard beekeeping in New England. We will cover bee culture and society, tools and equipment, establishing your first hives, hive management, the harvesting process and potential cash flow streams from bees. (10 hours) $109
1/23-2/20 6:00pm - 8:00pm Thursday
Bedford Campus: Building: North Academic, room: G-11
Course Number: PER 946 30 CRN: 19859
Professor: WEISMAN
New! Chair Yoga
Join us for this virtual chair yoga session designed to improve focus and productivity;
this 45-minute class offers a refreshing break from your busy day. No need to change
clothes or grab a mat—simply join us online. You'll discover how to release tension,
improve posture, and re-energize your body and mind through gentle chair yoga poses
and mindful breathing techniques. Learn in the comfort of your home or office with
Certified Hatha Instructor Lori Weir to answer all your questions. Each session runs
independently. Join for for one, two or all three sessions. Waiver will be sent prior
to class beginning. (3.75 hours) $65
About the instructor: Lori Weir sought out her first yoga class in 2012 and was taken by how the practice quieted her mind, challenged her body, and lifted her spirit. Lori completed her 200-hour teacher training in 2021 and a 300-hour training in 2024. Her training also includes SomaVeda® Thai Yoga Level I, Reiki Level I & II, and Chair and Yin Yoga. Lori has been valued adjunct faculty member in MCC's Business Department for 25+ years.
1/29 – 2/26 4:30pm-5:15pm Wednesday
Online with class meeting times
Course Number: PER 510 75 CRN: 20425
Professor: Weir
3/5 – 4/2 4:30pm-5:15pm Wednesday
Online with class meeting times
Course Number: PER 510 76 CRN: 20426
Profrssor: Weir
4/9 – 5/7 4:30pm-5:15pm Wednesday
Online with class meeting times
Course Number: PER 510 77 CRN: 20427
Professor: Weir
New! Beginner Yoga
This beginner's class is for those who have never practiced yoga before but are curious
to know what yoga is about and whether it is for them. Learn in the comfort of your
home with certified instructor Lori Weir to answer all your questions. This class
will focus on breathing techniques, strengthening and lengthening, balancing, and
introducing participants to basic poses.
(3.75 hours) $65. Waiver will be sent prior to class.
About the instructor: Lori Weir sought out her first yoga class in 2012 and was taken by how the practice quieted her mind, challenged her body, and lifted her spirit. Lori completed her 200-hour teacher training in 2021 and a 300-hour training in 2024. Her training also includes SomaVeda® Thai Yoga Level I, Reiki Level I & II, and Chair and Yin Yoga. Lori has been valued adjunct faculty member in MCC's Business Department for 25+ years.
PER 510 76 CRN: 20426
1/29-2/26 5:30pm-6:15pm Wednesday
Online with class meeting times
PER 511 75 CRN: 20428
Professor: Weir