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Degree & Certificate Programs
Richland Community College offers a wide range of academic opportunities tailored to prepare you for success, no matter where life leads. With an extensive selection of degree and certificate programs, Richland ensures that every student has access to a personalized pathway to reach their full potential. Whether you’re looking to seamlessly transfer to a four-year university or acquire the practical skills needed for a rewarding career, our committed faculty and staff are here to guide and support you at every step of your educational journey.
Richland Community College is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and create a future filled with endless possibilities.
Engineering
Engineering is the practical application of science and math to solve problems, and it extends everywhere in this world. From computer chips and satellites to medical devices and renewable energy technologies, engineering makes modern life possible.
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Accounting
Accounting is a field that helps companies manage their financial data. These positions exist in most companies, in bookkeeping and accounting firms, and in government organizations. In larger organizations, positions may be specialized such as payroll clerk, accounts receivable clerk, or accounts payable clerk.
African American Studies
A concentration in African-American Studies is comparable to concentrations in history, sociology, philosophy, and anthropology, with an added multicultural component. This program provides an excellent background preparation for many careers, including teaching, law, business, public policy, community work, etc.
Agribusiness
Agribusiness is a thriving and sought-after career path, with degrees in this field highly coveted by numerous employers within the agriculture sector. Richland Community College offers a program that unlocks a multitude of exciting career avenues for students. Upon completion of this comprehensive two-year program, graduates are poised to seamlessly transition into a variety of roles within the agribusiness realm. Some of the career opportunities include: farm supply and service companies, crop insurance providers, seed companies, farm service government agencies, natural resources government agencies, and more.
Arts
The Arts program is designed to provide two academic years of college study for transfer to a four-year university or upper-division college toward a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. It provides hands-on experience in the classroom and through the David Erlanson Art Gallery.
Automotive Technology
Automotive technology is constantly expanding with new developments in electronics and computerized controls; these changes require training not only for entry-level positions but for career advancement. At Richland Community College, students work directly with the latest technology to prepare them for what they will see in the workforce.
Biology
Biology is the science of life. From the most basic cellular processes to the internal workings of the most complex organisms, biology teaches us about ourselves and other plant and animal species, and how we all coexist on earth. Graduates typically transfer to a four-year university or upper-division college to earn a Bachelor of Science degree.
Business
The Business program provides students with both specialty and technical core courses in business and management that apply to either the certificates or the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Business. The program is versatile in its use, with most students seeking entry-level management and marketing positions in a variety of settings.
CDL Truck Driver Training
It’s easy to obtain a Class A (Tractor Trailer) or B (Straight Truck) CDL through Richland Community College’s Truck Driver Training Program. On top of offering Class A & B CDL training, Richland also offers refresher programs and customized training for trucking companies.
Chemistry
Chemists are the unsung heroes in the sciences who transform the everyday materials around us into amazing things. The basic building block for other sciences, chemistry blends well with other specialties. A chemistry major can be combined with courses in biology, geology, or other sciences, business management, or communications to develop careers in such areas as biomedical research, pharmaceutical sales, or science communications.
Collision Repair Technology
The Collision Repair Technology program prepares students for entry-level positions and career advancement in the collision repair industry. The program includes diagnostic technologies, welding techniques, shop safety, metal straightening, panel replacement, interior trim and body refinishing, glass replacement, frame straightening, fiber glass repair, aluminum repair, surface preparation, painting techniques, refinishing, and damage estimation.
Communication
Richland Community College’s Communication program prepares students to work in a variety of fields. Graduates work in communications, public relations, government and public service, sales, publishing, journalism, advertising, education, performing arts, business, and many other areas.
Computer Science
Computer science spans the range from theory through programming to cutting-edge development of computing solutions. The work of computer scientists falls into three categories: a) designing and building software; b) developing effective ways to solve computing problems, such as storing information in databases, sending data over networks or providing new approaches to security problems; and c) devising new and better ways of using computers and addressing particular challenges in areas such as robotics, computer vision, or digital forensics (although these specializations are not available in all computer science programs).
Construction Training Program
Richland’s Construction Training program prepares students with basic knowledge in carpentry, electrical, plumbing, roofing, and more. Coursework covers math skills, OSHA, hand & power tool safety & usage, blueprint reading, and forklift, scissor lift & telescopic boom lift operation. Students also receive EnRich’s trauma-informed resilience-focused training – which includes help with writing resumes and proper interview techniques.
Criminal Justice
Criminal Justice is a program that allows you to deliver emergency response and investigative services or even provide close monitoring and accountability systems for those accused or convicted of crimes. After completing this program at Richland, graduates earn titles like Patrol Officer, Correctional Officer, Probation and Parole Officer, and Emergency Telecommunications Specialist.
Crop Production
Students in the Crop Production program focus on the agronomic side of the Agribusiness industry. By earning a degree in crop production at Richland Community College, graduates can enter the workforce in a variety of positions. Examples of jobs in this area include crop application specialists, crop research assistants, and farm managers.
Culinary Arts
The Culinary Arts program prepares individuals for an exciting career as a chef, cook, and/or food preparation worker for a variety of hospitality industries, including hotels, restaurants, convention centers, hospitals, and corporate dining facilities. The curriculum covers all aspects of culinary preparation including meats, poultry, fish, vegetables, sauces, soups, bread and pastry baking, desserts, specialty cooking, and international cuisine
Diesel Truck Technology
To be successful in the diesel truck industry, mechanics need to be equipped to maintain and repair modern, more sophisticated engines. Richland Community College’s program introduces advanced diagnostic, maintenance, and repair tools – preparing students for entry-level positions and career advancement.
Early Childhood Education
Childcare and preschool teacher assistants and workers play a vital role in the development of children. As an Early Childhood Education major, graduates enjoy a variety of career options, including a child care teacher, an assistant director or director of a child care facility, a private preschool teacher, nanny, director of a preschool program, an elementary school assistant, or Head Start assistant.
Earth Science
Earth Science is the study of the earth and its processes. This program is multidisciplinary, and majors will study a wide range of scientific fields related to the earth, often including physical geography, geology, meteorology, oceanography, atmospheric sciences, physics, and chemistry. Earth scientists include geologists, meteorologists, geographers, oceanographers, and ecologists.
Economics
Economics includes the study of labor, land, and investments, of money, income, and production, and of taxes and government expenditures. Although various roles in businesses are most common, economics majors are successful in law, medicine, government, non-profits, and international relations, as well as in academic roles.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
As an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic, graduates provide emergency care – taking the critical initial steps to saving a life. The EMS curriculum provides both the classroom and clinical experiences necessary to meet the criteria established by the IllinAs a Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic, graduates provide emergency care – taking the critical initial steps to saving a life. The EMS curriculum provides both the classroom and clinical experiences necessary to meet the criteria established by the Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Emergency Medical Services and Highway Safety and the National Standard Curriculum. At Richland Community College, the student may select from two levels of training: EMT (Certificate) and Paramedic (Certificate and AAS). Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Emergency Medical Services and Highway Safety and the National Standard Curriculum. At Richland Community College, the student may select from two levels of training: EMT (Certificate) and Paramedic (Certificate and AAS).
Engineering
Engineering is the practical application of science and math to solve problems, and it extends everywhere in this world. From computer chips and satellites to medical devices and renewable energy technologies, engineering makes modern life possible.
Engineering Technology – Advanced Manufacturing (FAME)
Want to dive into a manufacturing career while studying at Richland? Here is your chance!
FAME, which stands for the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education, is an innovative program designed to create a pipeline of highly skilled employees for the manufacturing industry. Prairie Land is our local initiative, which includes partners like ADM, GSI, Mueller, and voestalpine Railway Systems.
Engineering Technology – CNC Technology
By studying the CNC Technology specialty, students are prepared for employment as a CNC operator or CNC programmer. These skilled jobs require the ability to set up and operate high-tech computer-controlled (CNC) machines – which are computerized, highly automated machines that cut, shape, drill, or otherwise modify metal or plastic parts for all segments of industry.
Engineering Technology – Electrical Systems
The Electrical Systems specialty prepares the students to repair, install, maintain, and fix complex electrical equipment found in the manufacturing environment. In addition, they help plan, install, and test the setup of new equipment. Many technicians may travel to customer sites to maintain and/or repair equipment.
Engineering Technology – Instrumentation Systems Specialty
The Instrumentation Systems specialty prepares the student to install, calibrate, maintain, tune, troubleshoot, and repair instrumentation, components, and control loops in such industries as food processing, pharmaceuticals, aluminum, chemical manufacturing, semiconductor manufacturing, petroleum refining, pulp and paper, and power generation
Engineering Technology – Mechanical Systems Specialty
The Mechanical Systems specialty prepares the student to install, monitor, troubleshoot, and repair mechanical systems found in industrial plants, public buildings, and utility stations. This concentration is suited for students interested in areas such as rigging and cranes, mechanical drives, compressors, pump systems, pipe systems, and lubrication systems.
English
The study of English composition and literature involves a wide range of genres (types) of literature and a similarly varied array of writing forms, both analytical and creative. Careers in which skills obtained in studying English are absolutely central to success include the legal field, business, government, all forms of research, and communications. More specifically, English involves the creation, analysis, and criticism of various forms, including Short Stories, Poetry, Cinema, Novels, Essays, and Creative Writing.
Foreign Language
Majoring in Foreign Languages opens up more career options – making you more competitive in the job market. Richland offers classes in a variety of foreign languages: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, and Spanish. Students can take classes to fulfill foreign language requirements for Associate of Arts degrees or pursue a concentration in foreign language as part of their Associate of Arts degree.
Forensic Phlebotomy
Forensic Phlebotomy is a restricted admission fast-track, hybrid program that prepares selected law enforcement personnel to perform forensic blood draws safely. The program includes theory, lab, and clinical experiences in safe blood collection and handling.
General Science
If you enjoy science and math and want to pursue a science-related career, general science may be the right major for you. Because it is broader than most undergraduate degree programs, the general science curriculum enables students to develop skills that relate to a variety of topics, ideas, and experiences. By becoming familiar with a broad range of disciplines, a wide range of possibilities are open to you beyond working in a lab or teaching. You can apply your knowledge of science to careers in writing, social science, law, and activism.
General Studies
General Studies offers students the ability to explore various areas of interest before pursuing a more specific educational goal. Students can earn an Associate in Liberal Studies degree or even obtain basic certificates covering everything from health & safety to cultural studies and civic development.
Health Information Technology
If you would like to work in Healthcare but not with patients, Richland’s Healthcare Information Technology (HIT) Program is for you! As a Healthcare Information Technologist, you will work to prevent medical errors and expand access to affordable healthcare.
Healthcare Documentation
Healthcare Documentation is one of the fastest growing work-from-home careers in the country. As a Healthcare Documentation Specialist, you will transcribe medical information into a medical record – which tracks medical histories, physical examination reports, operating room reports, and more.
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
HVAC&R technicians carry out repairs, maintenance, and installations of heating and air-conditioning systems. They frequently specialize in one area – whether it be in installation or maintenance & repair. Richland Community College provides the training to develop confident, professional HVAC&R technicians/ installers
History
History helps students see a broad picture of the past – broadening their scopes of both contemporary and past events and how they interrelate with one another. Graduates become artists, ministers, small business owners, military officers, insurance agents, bankers, politicians, restaurateurs, lobbyists, archivists, doctors, musicians, city planners, architects, writers, newspaper editors, physical therapists, professional athletes, actors, social workers, travel agents, and much more.
Horticulture
At Richland Community College, the Horticulture program provides students with scientific knowledge and comprehension of plants and horticultural systems. Through hands-on training, students develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and receive practical application of management practices. This program prepares students for careers in landscape design, greenhouse operations, small farm operation, and other positions in the green industry.
Hospitality Management
The Hospitality Management program prepares students for career-track positions in the restaurant, catering, and institutional food service fields. Courses are offered in five areas: risk management, cost control and revenue management, human resources, marketing management, and operations management.
Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Illinois Works’ free Pre-Apprenticeship program prepares students to transition into a Department of Labor registered apprenticeship in the trades. The training covers positions in multiple trades, including: Carpenters, Electricians, Sheet Metal Workers, Plumbers & Steamfitters, Laborers, Bricklayers, Glaziers, Roofers, and Operators.
The program offers classroom instruction, wrap-around services, student support services, stipends, and industry recognized certifications (MC3, OSHA, First Aid/CPR).
Industrial Job Skills Training Program
The Industrial Job Skills Training program helps students develop a strong understanding of basic manufacturing, job readiness and Essential Skills, math, CNC machining, welding, safety and OSHA training. Graduates receive certifications like Tooling U’s Certified Manufacturing Manufacturing Associate, OSHA 10, First Aid/CPR, Forklift, Craning and Rigging.
Mathematics
Richland Community College’s Math program includes general mathematics skills, algebra, trigonometry, statistics, calculus, differential equations, and developmental courses through technical mathematics. Graduates can apply this background in mathematics to a variety of careers.
Medical Assisting
The Medical Assisting program provides students with educational experiences to achieve entry-level knowledge, skills, and behaviors needed to perform administrative and clinical duties of medical assistants in ambulatory care facilities under the direction of a provider. The program prepares students to take a national medical assistant certification exam.
Music
For musically talented people, or people who are passionate about music, a career in music can be extremely rewarding, and there are many career paths available. Graduates find careers in music education, performing, therapy, engineering, arranging, recording, publishing, writing, lyricism, and more.
Network Technology
The Network Technology program focuses on the use of computer technology and information management methods to solve business problems. The knowledge base of this degree program will prepare students for the Cisco CCNA, Microsoft’s MCP, Security+, Network+, and A+ certifications.
Nurse Assistant (CNA)
CNAs provide basic nursing care to patients under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse. Excellent opportunities for employment exist in long-term care, hospitals, home health agencies, clinics, and private residences.
Nursing (Registered Nurse)
A Registered Nurse, commonly referred to as an RN, is a healthcare professional who provides and coordinates patient care. An RN can work in a wide range of healthcare roles and specialize in any field within the medical industry. Common tasks could include preparation of patients for surgery or treatments, recording medical history or symptoms, administering medicine and treatments, assist with patient care plans, using and monitoring medical equipment, and educating patients and their families about managing an illness or injury.
Occupational Safety Training Programs
Richland provides advanced courses for compliance with OSHA regulation as well as general safety and health courses to meet safety awareness and new hire orientation needs. Richland is not an OTI Education Center, but serves as a host training organization for the National Safety Education Center (NSEC).
Philosophy
Philosophy is a good major for those who are not quite sure what they want to do with their lives. Undergraduate philosophy programs typically allow a wide range of freedom to take courses in other fields, so students can test their aptitude in different subjects. As a result, philosophy is also excellent preparation for graduate school in many different fields, including law, literature, social sciences, and other fields.
Phlebotomy
The Phlebotomy program prepares students for entry-level employment as phlebotomists in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities. The program includes theory, lab, and clinical experiences in a variety of phlebotomy techniques including safe blood and laboratory specimen collection and handling.
Physics
Physicists often cover many specialized fields – from acoustics, astronomy, and astrophysics to medical physics, geophysics, and vacuum sciences. The field offers a variety of career opportunities as well – lab supervisor, researcher, technician, teacher, manager. The Physics program at Richland opens doors to employment opportunities throughout the world in government, industry, schools, and private organizations.
Political Science
In a major sense, politics is the activity by which the framework of human life is sustained in all nations throughout the world. At Richland, both the theory and the practice of politics are investigated, inviting students to engage their minds to discover their own perception of political reality . Students will also have the opportunity to become involved in field research during major election years participating in actual political campaigns working with candidates of their choice.
Practical Nursing
The Practical Nursing program prepares entry-level students to provide nursing care to clients with common health problems through the use of basic skills under the direction of a registered nurse, licensed physician or nurse practitioner. It consists of classroom instruction, laboratory, and clinical experiences in hospitals, nursing homes, and community health settings.
Psychology
Psychologists study the intersection of two critical relationships: one between brain function and behavior, and one between the environment and behavior. As scientists, psychologists follow scientific methods, using careful observation, experimentation, and analysis. Opportunities for work in psychology are expanding in number and scope, especially for those with graduate degrees, while an undergraduate degree remains excellent preparation for continued graduate work in psychology or other fields, such as business, medicine, or computer science.
Radiography
Radiographers work alongside radiologists – producing the images that radiologists use to diagnose patients. In this field, you can specialize in a variety of areas, including mammography, magnetic resonance imaging, cardiac-interventional, management, and more. By studying Radiography at Richland, you will become well-versed in anatomy, physics, radiographic procedures, and other skills you will use every day on the job.
Sociology
Sociology is the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Employment sectors include: social services (working with child welfare, services for the elderly, case management, etc.), community work (child care, community development agencies, non-profit organizations, etc.), corrections (probation, parole, or other criminal justice work), business (particularly in the areas of marketing, human resources, training, and sales), college settings (i.e. admissions and alumni relations), health services (such as family planning, substance abuse, and rehabilitation counseling), government services (i.e. state/local jobs in the areas of housing and labor), and teaching (in conjunction with the appropriate teacher certification).
Software Applications Programming
Software Applications Programming at Richland prepares students for designing, writing, testing, debugging, and implementing software, according to user/customer specifications, in process-oriented, data-oriented, and object-oriented coding environments. Graduates enter careers such as Programmer, Programmer/Analyst, Data Modeler, Database Designer, Systems Analyst, Website Designer, Web Consultant, or Web Applications Developer.
Surgical Technology
Surgical Technologists are integral members of the surgical team who work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses, and other surgical personnel in delivery of patient care. By providing both in-classroom and real-world experiences, this program fully prepares graduates to work in a growing occupation.
Theatre
Richland Community College’s Theatre program has something for students who are interested in exploring all areas of theatre from the technical side to performing onstage. Students receive hands-on experience through yearly productions in the newly renovated Shilling Community Education Center Auditorium.
Welding Technology
Welding is one of the fastest growing trades in the world. Through Richland’s program, students build the skills to work in one of two areas: construction/pipe welding trades or industrial maintenance equipment.