Liberal Arts for Returning Citizens (LARC) is a tuition-free college program at Clark University that supports formerly incarcerated individuals as they reenter society and rebuild their lives. LARC’s curriculum combines the transformative power of a liberal arts education with workforce preparation through paid internships, Recovery Coach Training program, business mentorship, and a Digital Literacy Certificate that includes courses on basic computer skills, artificial intelligence, financial literacy, and data analysis.
LARC provides community as well as a site for asking new questions about identity and the world in which we live.
Program details
While LARC is a non-matriculating program, students receive Clark University transcripts and transferable college credit, and have full access to all campus services, including the Writing Center, Goddard Library, and Small Business Center. Each course meets one night a week for seven weeks. A high school diploma or equivalent degree (e.g., GED, HiSET) is required to enroll in LARC.
Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 Courses
Essential Computer Skills
January 21 – March 4
Taught by Professor Li Han
Focuses on skills to actively engage in personal and professional pursuits. Topics include internet basics, social media, data security, and online privacy.
Food Entrepreneurship
March 15 – May 3
Taught by Professor Shon Rainford
Introduces students to the fundamentals of launching and managing a food-based business. Topics include business planning, regulatory compliance, marketing, and operations in the context of Worcester’s food ecosystem.
Fundamentals of AI
March 16 – April 27
Taught by Professor Gary Holness
Teaches students how to become informed users of artificial intelligence (e.g., ChatGPT) and examines AI’s broader social impact, including ethical considerations, potential biases, and the evolving role of AI in daily life.
Related stories
LARC Voices
Hear from LARC participants about their experiences in the program.
Listen to Nate’s Story
Frequently asked questions
What is LARC?
LARC (Liberal Arts for Returning Citizens) is a program that offers formerly incarcerated individuals free college courses at Clark University. All books and materials are free for students.
Is it necessary to have a GED or diploma to register for LARC enrollment?
Yes, in order to register for LARC courses, potential students must have a high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED or HiSET). If you cannot obtain a copy of your high school diploma, we will provide you with a form to complete with this information.
Do potential students have to be formerly incarcerated to sign up?
Any person who has been involved with the legal system (e.g., probation, juvenile detention) may apply to LARC.
Do I have to live in Worcester to participate?
No, students do not have to live in Worcester, but most classes are offered in person on Clark University’s campus, so students must have transportation to our Worcester campus.
How often do LARC classes meet?
Classes meet one night per week for three hours over the course of a 7-week module. Classes are offered in the evenings, typically from 6 – 9 p.m. Dinner is provided for all classes that are held on the college campus.
When are classes offered?
We offer classes year-round, including summer.
Is there a minimum number of classes I am required to take at a time?
LARC is a flexible program. Students can take one or more classes during each 7-week module. And if you decide to take a break after a module ends, you can return to LARC when you want to take additional classes. We will continue to keep you informed about classes that are being offered.
Would I get a degree taking all the classes offer by LARC?
While LARC students do not earn degrees by participating in LARC classes, students are awarded transferable credit for passing LARC courses. These credits may be transferable to Clark (should students enroll in a degree-granting program) as well as other colleges, community colleges, and universities.
Are LARC course credits transferable to other schools?
Yes, credits students earn by completing courses in the LARC program are transferrable to other colleges, universities, and community colleges. LARC students earn .50 units – or 2 credits – for each course they complete, and all classes are graded on a Pass/Fail basis (rather than letter grades).
Do I need access to a computer or laptop to participate in LARC?
You do not need a personal computer or laptop to participate in LARC. If you are a LARC student, you will receive a Clark student ID card, which gives you access to computer lab spaces on campus. You may use these computers to complete assignments, check your email, and so on.
Are LARC students considered Clark University students?
LARC students are given a Clark student ID, which grants them access to resources like computer labs, the library, and the athletic facilities. They may participate in student clubs and organizations and may attend university-sponsored functions.
LARC students are considered part-time Clark students. As such, they are allowed to participate in programs, services, and groups open to part-time students. Some programs and services are not offered to part-time students.
Will I have access to Clark University services?
Yes, LARC students can use Goddard Library, the Writing Center, and the Fitness Center. Students also have access to Uwill, a program that provides online mental health services. You can access Uwill by going to https://app.uwill.com/.
LARC Partners
