Adult Education in California is designed to meet the educational needs of adults and is authorized by law under two documents: the Education Code and the California Administrative Code, Title 5, Education. The purpose of adult education programs is to foster productive workers, community members, family members and life long learners.

Most adult school programs in California are maintained by unified or high school districts and fall under the jurisdiction of that school district's Board of Trustees.

Adult courses of study are subject to the approval process established by the California State Department of Education.

The following programs are authorized by the state and offered by Mt. Diablo Adult Education:

Adult Basic Education
Citizenship
English as a Second Language
Handicapped (Adults with Disablilites)
Health & Safety
High School Diploma
Home Economics
Older Adult (Lifelong Learning)
Parent Education
Vocational Training

In addition, Mt. Diablo Adult Education offers Community Education fee-based classes. Costs for these classes are covered entirely by student fees; there is no state or tax support for this program.