Free computer classes in Oakland — beginner to AI-ready in 8 weeks.
36 short, self-paced lessons open to adults across Oakland, Berkeley, Alameda, and San Leandro. Start at "how do I turn this on" and finish using AI to write a résumé. No tuition, no experience needed, no commute — and a certificate when you finish.
- Cost
- $0 — always free
- Length
- 8 weeks · 36 lessons
- Format
- Online, self-paced
- Finish with
- Verified certificate
Get the next East Bay class date
Cohorts are capped at 20 seats. Enter your email and we'll tell you the moment the next class opens.
Who these Oakland classes are for
Complete beginners
If you have avoided computers your whole working life, start at Week 1. Nothing is assumed and nothing is rushed.
Seniors and older adults
Plain language, big steps, repeatable lessons. There is no upper age limit and many participants are 55+.
East Bay job seekers
Online applications, email, spreadsheets, video interviews, and AI tools that speed up a résumé or cover letter.
One skill at a time.
- 01
Week 1: Computer basics
Turning it on, mouse and keyboard, desktop, files and folders, saving your work.
- 02
Week 2: Getting online
Wi-Fi, browsers, searching well, telling good sources from bad ones.
- 03
Week 3: Email that works
Setting up an account, writing and replying, attachments, keeping an inbox under control.
- 04
Week 4: Staying safe online
Strong passwords, scams and phishing, privacy settings, protecting your money and ID.
- 05
Week 5: Everyday digital tools
Documents, spreadsheets, video calls, cloud storage, printing and scanning from a phone.
- 06
Week 6: Forms, portals, and services
Job applications, benefits and health portals, uploading documents, digital signatures.
- 07
Week 7: AI you can actually use
What AI is and isn't, writing prompts, using AI to draft a résumé, cover letter, or email.
- 08
Week 8: Your plan from here
Digital skills on a résumé, next-step training and jobs, a written plan you leave with.
Questions from East Bay residents
Are there free computer classes in Oakland?
Yes. Futurenomic Resources runs a free 8-week computer and AI course open to adults across the East Bay, including Oakland, Berkeley, Alameda, and San Leandro. The coursework is online and self-paced, so you can take it from home, a library, or on a phone.
How much does it cost?
Nothing. There is no tuition, no registration fee, and no credit check. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded by grants and donors.
Do I need my own computer?
No. Lessons work on a phone, a tablet, or a public library computer. Adults who complete the course can also be considered for a free refurbished Chromebook while supplies last.
Are classes in person in Oakland?
The coursework is online and self-paced. Live support sessions are held by video so East Bay participants can join without commuting, and San Francisco cohorts also include in-person sessions you are welcome at.
Do you offer classes for seniors in Oakland?
Yes. There is no upper age limit and many participants are 55 and older. Lessons start with turning a computer on and can be repeated as often as you want.
What do I get at the end?
A verifiable certificate of completion you can share on LinkedIn or attach to a job application, a written next-step plan, and consideration for a device if you need one.