Highland Community College-IL

The Highland associate of arts degree in art (AA) provides the essential background knowledge for a student to succeed in the field of studio art, painting, drawing, and design. This program is designed to provide entry-level skills necessary for entrance in the graphic design field. This HCC program is designed for a student pursuing a baccalaureate degree in visual art. However, it is also possible to start a career by applying the skills learned in this two-year program.

The certificate program prepares students for entry-level positions in graphic design . Students learn the fundamentals of design
using computer software . A problem-solving approach is used and actual design projects are incorporated into the curriculum when appropriate. Among job positions available in this field are graphic design, print media, illustration, electronic publishing, communications, entertainment industry, and advertising .

This program is designed to provide entry-level job skills necessary for entrance in the graphic design field. Students learn the basics of typography, layout, and design using computer software. An emphasis is placed on the design process including communication, proofs, and presentation. A problem-solving approach is used and actual design projects are incorporated into the curriculum when appropriate. Areas of employment include graphic design, print media, illustration, electronic publishing, communications, entertainment, industry, and advertising.

The automotive mechanics associate of applied science (AAS) program prepares students through the combination of work and education, for employment in the areas of computerized engine controls, air conditioning, transmissions, alignments, brakes, and engine overhaul. Certification is possible for automotive service excellence/master automobile technician.
Completion of this degree will provide all of the courses that a student will need to prepare to become an ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Certified Automobile Service Technician.

This Level One certificate prepares students for employment
as entry-level technicians for routine vehicle maintenance responsibilities in lubrication, brake installation, tire service, suspension repair and alignment, and minor automotive electrical. Students find jobs repairing and servicing passenger cars, trucks, and other automotive vehicles. Completion of the Automotive Service Level I and Level II certificate will provide all of the courses that a student will need to help prepare to become an ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Certified Automobile Service Technician.

This program prepares students for employment in the areas of computerized engine controls, air conditioning, transmissions, alignments, brakes, control systems diagnostics, and engine service. Certification is possible in Automotive Service Excellence/Certified Automobile Technician. Program graduates may find jobs repairing and servicing mechanical and electrical systems of passenger vehicles and light trucks. Completion of the Automotive Service Level I and Level II certificate will provide all of the courses that a student will need to help prepare to become an ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Certified Automobile Service Technician.

The Highland Community College Truck Driver Training Course, provided by the 160 Driving Academy, includes everything you need to earn a CDL and find your first job as a truck driver.
After successful completion of the four-week course you will take the Secretary of State administered Class A test and receive a certificate from 160 Driving Academy as well as an Illinois Commercial Driver’s License from the Secretary of State. Most importantly, our staff will work with our numerous trucking partners to secure job placement for you.

The Highland certified nurse assistant program curriculum will prepare students to take the state certificate exam for nursing assistants. Upon successful completion of the exam, students may work as nursing assistants. The CNA program provides a foundation for all other nursing programs at HCC. Students learn valuable direct care skills. This certification program is offered every semester, including the summer session, at the main campus in Freeport. It is also offered at off-campus sites.

Many courses in this program are based in Highland’s individualized Office Technology Lab. The lab is staffed at all times with an instructor to assist students with course work. Students are able to proceed through many courses at their own pace and at times that are convenient to both the traditional student and the person wishing to train for a new field or upgrade skills. Candidates for the degree must choose an emphasis area for their specialty.

The Medical Coding Program is designed to prepare individuals to understand coding principles, guidelines, medical terminology and regulatory changes for coding. The program is designed to offer a wide variety of learning experiences including classroom lecture and observation in a hospital setting.

Our Medical Assistant program provides you with a strong foundation in everything from clinical skills, to patient interaction and administrative duties. With our hands-on, career driving curriculum, you’ll have the skills and confidence to apply your knowledge in any healthcare setting – right after graduation. Highland Community College’s Medical Assistant Program strives “to prepare competent entry-level medical assistants in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains.” Our goal is to promote professional, valuable, and efficient health care through educational theory and demonstration of knowledge and skills set forth by CAAHEP.

The computer technician program will prepare the student to install, upgrade, or repair computer equipment typically found in the home or on the office desktop. The scope of the curriculum includes microcomputers, peripheral devices, and technical support. The certificate competencies parallel those of the computer industry’s A+ credential requirements. Students completing this program will be prepared to sit for
the A+ certification exam and enter the work place as an entry- level computer systems technician. Types of jobs for which this program prepares graduates include: computer installer, computer repair technician, technical support representative, and technical consultant.

This program is intended to provide the graduate with the entry- level job skills necessary in an information technology field. Candidates for the degree must choose an emphasis area for their specialty. Graduates with this degree typically work as computer programmers, computer technicians, technical support staff, network specialists, office administrators, or in information technology system sales.

This program is intended to provide the graduate with the entry- level job skills necessary in an information technology field. Candidates for the degree must choose an emphasis area for their specialty. Graduates with this degree typically work as computer programmers, computer technicians, technical support staff, network specialists, office administrators, or in information technology system sales.

The Criminal Justice Certificate Program at Highland Community College prepares students for entry level career opportunities
with local, county, state, or federal law enforcement agencies, correctional institutions, administrative assistants, courtroom employees, and other criminal justice agencies such as probation and parole . In addition, our certificate program can prepare current criminal justice professionals for career advancements. A broad range of employment options exist in both the private and public sectors depending upon qualifications . Examples of areas of employment would include; but not be limited to the following: law enforcement, corrections, court reporting, parks and wildlife, and social work.

This program is designed for both those intending to transfer to This program is designed for both those intending to transfer to a four- year baccalaureate program as well as for those seeking immediate employment following completion of the two-year program. The guiding theme for this program is twofold . First, for participants to think critically about the broader context (i .e ., social, cultural, and political) within which the activity of criminal justice occurs . Second, for participants to gain competencies enabling them to learn the skill set associated with the practical implementation of criminal justice. A broad range of employment options exist in both the private and public sectors depending upon qualifications . Examples of areas of employment would include; but not be limited to the following: law enforcement, corrections, court reporting, parks and wildlife, and social work.

The Criminal Justice Program at Highland Community College prepares students for a rewarding career with local, county, state, or federal law enforcement agencies, correctional institutions, administrative assistants, courtroom employees, and other criminal justice agencies such as probation and parole . A number of related career fields, such as security and private investigations, are open to graduates of our Criminal Justice Program . In addition, our program can prepare current criminal justice professionals for career advancements. A broad range of employment options exist in both the private and public sectors depending upon qualifications . Examples of areas of employment would include; but not be limited to the following: law enforcement, corrections, court reporting, parks and wildlife, and social work.

The Criminal Justice Certificate Program at Highland Community College prepares students for entry level career opportunities
with local, county, state, or federal law enforcement agencies, correctional institutions, administrative assistants, courtroom employees, and other criminal justice agencies such as probation and parole . In addition, our certificate program can prepare current criminal justice professionals for career advancements. A broad range of employment options exist in both the private and public sectors depending upon qualifications . Examples of areas of employment would include; but not be limited to the following: law enforcement, corrections, court reporting, parks and wildlife, and social work.

This program is designed for both those intending to transfer to This program is designed for both those intending to transfer to a four- year baccalaureate program as well as for those seeking immediate employment following completion of the two-year program. The guiding theme for this program is twofold . First, for participants to think critically about the broader context (i .e ., social, cultural, and political) within which the activity of criminal justice occurs . Second, for participants to gain competencies enabling them to learn the skill set associated with the practical implementation of criminal justice. A broad range of employment options exist in both the private and public sectors depending upon qualifications . Examples of areas of employment would include; but not be limited to the following: law enforcement, corrections, court reporting, parks and wildlife, and social work.

The Criminal Justice Program at Highland Community College prepares students for a rewarding career with local, county, state, or federal law enforcement agencies, correctional institutions, administrative assistants, courtroom employees, and other criminal justice agencies such as probation and parole . A number of related career fields, such as security and private investigations, are open to graduates of our Criminal Justice Program . In addition, our program can prepare current criminal justice professionals for career advancements. A broad range of employment options exist in both the private and public sectors depending upon qualifications . Examples of areas of employment would include; but not be limited to the following: law enforcement, corrections, court reporting, parks and wildlife, and social work.

The Criminal Justice Program at Highland Community College prepares students for a rewarding career with local, county, state, or federal law enforcement agencies, correctional institutions, administrative assistants, courtroom employees, and other criminal justice agencies such as probation and parole . A number of related career fields, such as security and private investigations, are open to graduates of our Criminal Justice Program . In addition, our program can prepare current criminal justice professionals for career advancements. A broad range of employment options exist in both the private and public sectors depending upon qualifications . Examples of areas of employment would include; but not be limited to the following: law enforcement, corrections, court reporting, parks and wildlife, and social work. A number of related career fields, such as security and private investigations, are open to graduates of Highland’s Criminal Justice Program.

Studying early childhood development at Highland Community College can earn students a degree in two years online and lead to exciting opportunities.
In order to provide quality care and education in child development, an individual must have a passion for learning and the professional skills that can transform young children’s lives. Potential careers include teaching in public and private schools, Head Start programs, child care centers, and family child care homes. Highland’s program is dedicated to addressing the needs and interests of young learners of diverse ethnicity, race, socio-economic background and ability. Through online courses, students will be introduced to the concepts of early childhood development including child behavior, social-emotional development, health and safety, observation and assessment and curriculum planning.

The Infant/Toddler certificate provides students with a
specialized focus on the unique strengths and needs of infants
and toddlers with particular focus to children and families that
are culturally, linguistically and ability diverse . Students will study the comprehensive development of the young child, birth to
three years, with a focus on understanding current brain research and best caregiving practices . Students will explore the process
of designing infant/toddler environments that are individually, culturally and developmentally appropriate with focus on creating inclusive environments. This certificate is intended for students who already hold degrees or who have taken extensive coursework in other academic fields, but would like to build their knowledge and skills of working with infants, toddlers and their families. Infant/Toddler certificate holders work in licensed child care programs as teachers or assistant teachers or for home visiting programs such as Early Head Start or Prevention Initiative programs.

The Infant/Toddler Level 2 Credential certificate provides students with a specialized focus on the unique strengths and needs of infants and toddlers with particular focus on children and families that are culturally, linguistically and ability diverse. Students will study the comprehensive development of the young child, birth to three years, with a focus on understanding current brain research and best caregiving practices. The program is available for early childhood educators, parents, administrators, and health care professionals. The certificate is 21 credit hours, with all the credit hours applying to the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. The Illinois Gateway Level Infant/Toddler Level 2 Credential is designed to support movement through the state of Illinois Career Lattice. The Infant/Toddler Level 2 Credential expands on foundational professional knowledge, and supports progression to the Level 3 Credential or direct exit into the field. Infant/Toddler Level 2 Credential certificate holders work in licensed child care programs as assistant teachers or for home visiting programs such as Early Head Start.

The Infant/Toddler Level 3 Credential certificate provides students with a specialized focus on the unique strengths and needs of infants and toddlers with particular focus to children and families that are culturally, linguistically and ability diverse. Students will study the comprehensive development of the young child, birth to three years, with a focus on understanding current brain research and best caregiving practices. Students will research the process
of designing infant/toddler environments that are individually, culturally and developmentally appropriate with focus on creating inclusive environments. The program is available for early childhood educators, parents, administrators, and health care professionals. The certificate is 35/36 credit hours, with all the credit hours applying to the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. The Illinois Gateway Level Infant/Toddler Level 3 Credential is designed to support movement through the state
of Illinois Career Lattice. The Infant/ Toddler Level 3 Credential expands on foundational professional knowledge, and supports progression to the Infant/Toddler Level 4 Credential or direct exit into the field. Infant/Toddler Level 3 Credential certificate holders work in licensed child care programs as assistant teachers or for home visiting programs such as Early Head Start or Prevention Initiative programs.

The early childhood certificate program prepares students for the many positions in this field. This program is a direct link to the shaping of the next generation, as graduates guide children through their social, cognitive, and emotional development. This pathway is designed with convenient on and off ramps – you can pursue a Level 2 Credential, for example, then later decide that you would like to attain your Level 3 Credential. Level 2 Credential Certificate holders work in licensed child care programs as assistant teachers.

The early childhood certificate program prepares students for the many positions in this field. This program is a direct link to the shaping of the next generation, as graduates guide children through their social, cognitive, and emotional development. The associate of applied science (AAS) degree prepares students to care for young children while simultaneously teaching social and developmental functions. Students completing this degree are eligible for a Gateways to Opportunity Level 4 credential, an industry recognized credential.

The Infant/Toddler certificate provides students with a
specialized focus on the unique strengths and needs of infants
and toddlers with particular focus to children and families that
are culturally, linguistically and ability diverse . Students will study the comprehensive development of the young child, birth to
three years, with a focus on understanding current brain research and best caregiving practices . Students will explore the process
of designing infant/toddler environments that are individually, culturally and developmentally appropriate with focus on creating inclusive environments. This certificate is intended for students who already hold degrees or who have taken extensive coursework in other academic fields, but would like to build their knowledge and skills of working with infants, toddlers and their families. Infant/Toddler certificate holders work in licensed child care programs as teachers or assistant teachers or for home visiting programs such as Early Head Start or Prevention Initiative programs.

The Infant/Toddler Level 2 Credential certificate provides students with a specialized focus on the unique strengths and needs of infants and toddlers with particular focus on children and families that are culturally, linguistically and ability diverse. Students will study the comprehensive development of the young child, birth to three years, with a focus on understanding current brain research and best caregiving practices. The program is available for early childhood educators, parents, administrators, and health care professionals. The certificate is 21 credit hours, with all the credit hours applying to the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. The Illinois Gateway Level Infant/Toddler Level 2 Credential is designed to support movement through the state of Illinois Career Lattice. The Infant/Toddler Level 2 Credential expands on foundational professional knowledge, and supports progression to the Level 3 Credential or direct exit into the field. Infant/Toddler Level 2 Credential certificate holders work in licensed child care programs as assistant teachers or for home visiting programs such as Early Head Start.

The Infant/Toddler Level 3 Credential certificate provides students with a specialized focus on the unique strengths and needs of infants and toddlers with particular focus to children and families that are culturally, linguistically and ability diverse. Students will study the comprehensive development of the young child, birth to three years, with a focus on understanding current brain research and best caregiving practices. Students will research the process
of designing infant/toddler environments that are individually, culturally and developmentally appropriate with focus on creating inclusive environments. The program is available for early childhood educators, parents, administrators, and health care professionals. The certificate is 35/36 credit hours, with all the credit hours applying to the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. The Illinois Gateway Level Infant/Toddler Level 3 Credential is designed to support movement through the state
of Illinois Career Lattice. The Infant/ Toddler Level 3 Credential expands on foundational professional knowledge, and supports progression to the Infant/Toddler Level 4 Credential or direct exit into the field. Infant/Toddler Level 3 Credential certificate holders work in licensed child care programs as assistant teachers or for home visiting programs such as Early Head Start or Prevention Initiative programs.

The early childhood certificate program prepares students for the many positions in this field. This program is a direct link to the shaping of the next generation, as graduates guide children through their social, cognitive, and emotional development. This pathway is designed with convenient on and off ramps – you can pursue a Level 2 Credential, for example, then later decide that you would like to attain your Level 3 Credential. Level 2 Credential Certificate holders work in licensed child care programs as assistant teachers.

This program is for students who wish to qualify as an early childhood teacher or school-age worker (as defined by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services) in a DCFS-licensed program. Typical job positions that program graduates may enter into include family child care provider, child care worker, child care assistant, nanny positions, and other programs serving infants, toddlers,
and preschoolers.

The flexible HCC human/social services program (AA) provides essential educational elements while allowing students to choose from either an emphasis in children’s services or social services. Both are designed to provide a solid foundation for a baccalaureate degree. It is possible, however, for a student to gain employment after completion of the two-year program.

When completers of the Industrial Electronics and Controls certificate enter industry, they bring with them a wide range of skills that local and regional employers are seeking.
The program provides students with experience in general and industrial electronic components such as sensors, motors, and valves, as well as typical electronic circuits found in industry. Students gain experience with computer applications and programmable logic controllers.
The certificate includes health and safety instruction. Graduates of this certificate are prepared to work with industrial machines and manufacturing systems. Typical career positions include maintenance technician, troubleshooter, machine builder, and field sales specialist.

When graduates of the Mechatronics program enter industry, they bring with them the wide range of skills that local and regional employers are seeking.
They have experience with electricity and electronics, pneumatics and hydraulics, sensors and motors, and tool usage. Graduates will be versed in welding, machining, and other manufacturing processes, as well as troubleshooting as it relates to industrial equipment.
The degree includes health and safety instruction and an internship where students develop skills while applying their maintenance knowledge

When completers of the Industrial Maintenance program enter industry, they bring with them a wide range of skills that local and regional employers are seeking.
They have experience in welding, mechanics, electronics, motors, and fluid power systems. Students also gain experience with computer applications and programmable logic controllers. Problem solving and troubleshooting are emphasized throughout the program. The degree includes health and safety instruction.

Industrial Manufacturing graduates will enter industry with the wide range of skills that local and regional employers are seeking.
In addition to experience with CNC machining and CAD, they will be versed in welding and other manufacturing processes.
The degree includes health and safety instruction and an internship where students develop skills while applying the knowledge gained while earning their degree. Completers of this program will be fluent in CNC machine setup and processes . These skills in combination with entry-level knowledge of welding, electronics, and automation will prepare graduates for employment in manufacturing facilities utilizing CNC machining or CAD-related work.

The Machine Processes certificate provides students with the opportunity to gain basic and intermediate level experience in the areas of computer numeric control (CNC), computer-aided drafting (CAD), and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). Completers of this program will be fluent in CNC machine operation and will have entry-level setup skills. They will have the knowledge and skill to gain employment in manufacturing facilities utilizing CNC machining.

CNC Machinist certificate graduates enter industry with a basic skill set that will enable them to go beyond operating machine tools and basic CNC machining.
They will have the ability to set up and tool machines and to troubleshoot programming issues. Students also gain knowledge of basic machining and manufacturing processes. This certificate includes an internship where students develop skills while applying knowledge gained through the program. Graduates will be fluent in CNC machine setup and will be prepared for employment in manufacturing facilities utilizing CNC machining or CAD-related work.

The Basic Welding program provides the academic and technical skills as well as the occupational basics for the person wishing to enter the field as a novice worker. Graduates of this program have the entry-level job skills required in welding and metal fabrication . These skills are developed in the areas of Print Reading, Materials, Layout, Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), and Metal Inert Gas (GMAW.

Welding and Fabrication certificate graduates have the knowledge and ability required to lay out, fabricate, and weld various metals. These skills are developed in the areas of Print Reading, Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Metal Inert Gas (GMAW), and Tungsten Inert Gas Welding (TIG).

The Highland Community College Industrial Training degree was created in partnership with the Area 23 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union. Its main purpose is to create pathways for those pursuing a career having an emphasis in Welding . Students will gain the core Welding and General Education skills at the community college. The remainder of their skill development will be obtained through the existing structure of the Plumbers/Pipefitters and Heating Air Conditioning and Ventilation (HVAC) 5-year Apprentice program. Upon completion of this degree each student will have the necessary skills to work in a group or independently. Industrial Technicians will find a wide variety of employment options mainly in the area of metal fabrication. Possible careers would be Welder, Brazer, Plumber, Pipefitter and Steamer .

Welding and Fabrication certificate graduates have the knowledge and ability required to lay out, fabricate, and weld various metals. These skills are developed in the areas of Print Reading, Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Metal Inert Gas (GMAW), and Tungsten Inert Gas Welding (TIG).

This program is designed to prepare students to be a CAD technician in the manufacturing and/or engineering industries. Graduates of this program prepare clear, accurate, and detailed drawings from the rough sketches, specifications, and calculations of engineers and designers . These drawings are used for engineering and manufacturing purposes according to the specified dimensions . CAD/CAM technicians also use computer- controlled systems to assist industrial designers and engineers in designing products and carrying out automated processes .

The Highland Community College Industrial Training degree was created in partnership with the Area 23 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union. Its main purpose is to create pathways for those pursuing a career having an emphasis in Welding . Students will gain the core Welding and General Education skills at the community college. The remainder of their skill development will be obtained through the existing structure of the Plumbers/Pipefitters and Heating Air Conditioning and Ventilation (HVAC) 5-year Apprentice program. Upon completion of this degree each student will have the necessary skills to work in a group or independently. Industrial Technicians will find a wide variety of employment options mainly in the area of metal fabrication . Possible careers would be Welder, Brazer, Plumber, Pipefitter and Steamer.

The Highland Community College Industrial Training degree was created in partnership with the Area 23 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union. Its main purpose is to create pathways for those pursuing a career having an emphasis in Welding . Students will gain the core Welding and General Education skills at the community college. The remainder of their skill development will be obtained through the existing structure of the Plumbers/Pipefitters and Heating Air Conditioning and Ventilation (HVAC) 5-year Apprentice program. Upon completion of this degree each student will have the necessary skills to work in a group or independently. Industrial Technicians will find a wide variety of employment options mainly in the area of metal fabrication . Possible careers would be Welder, Brazer, Plumber, Pipefitter and Steamer.

The Highland Community College Truck Driver Training Course, provided by the 160 Driving Academy, includes everything you need to earn a CDL and find your first job as a truck driver.
After successful completion of the four-week course you will take the Secretary of State administered Class A test and receive a certificate from 160 Driving Academy as well as an Illinois Commercial Driver’s License from the Secretary of State. Most importantly, our staff will work with our numerous trucking partners to secure job placement for you.