Richland Community College's "Open Door" policy allows anyone who believes he or she may benefit from study at the College to enroll. Once students enroll, they have two possible routes:

1. Students with diversified needs and interests who are not seeking degrees may take courses in a variety of areas. While these courses may also be part of particular programs, students may select courses that best fit their goals.
2. Another direction for students is a program of study. A program of study leads to the awarding of appropriate degrees or certificates. Admission to a program of study requires that a student has earned a high school diploma, or a High School Equivalency Certificate based on the GED Test, or meets the "ability to benefit" criteria through a recognized test approved by the U.S. Department of Education.