Skip to content

Choose an Online Class

Online learning at Elgin Community College allows you to work towards your educational goals while maintaining your busy lifestyle and commitments. Experience a convenient learning environment with the support and resources you need to succeed!

What Are the Benefits of an Online Program?

With ECC's online degree and certificate programs, you can learn anytime. Classes are fully online and asynchronous, meaning no set class times or face-to-face sessions are required. Online programs are perfect for students balancing work, family commitments, or other outside responsibilities.

Online classes allow you to study at your own pace. You can work ahead or take more time on challenging topics.

Available Online Programs

Elgin Community College provides online degrees with different types of courses. Some courses allow you to study on your schedule (asynchronous), offering flexibility for part-time or full-time students. Other courses have set meeting times where you must be present online simultaneously with your classmates (synchronous). This might involve video conferencing tools like Zoom, Google Meets, and Virtual Classroom. You can contact Admissions and Recruitment for more information about our fully online degree options.

Read about the distinction between class types.

Note: The Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) recommends courses designed for transfer.

How Do I Enroll in an Online Program?

Signing up for an online degree at ECC works like signing up for any other program. If you're new or haven't been at ECC for two years, you should apply and say you want to do your whole program online. After you show interest, our admissions team will contact you about what to do next.

Talk to your academic advisor if you're already a student and want to switch to an online degree or certificate.

Apply to ECC

What Support and Resources Are Available for Online Learning?

Many student support services, such as academic advising, tutoring, and wellness services, are accessible remotely, eliminating the necessity to visit the campus. Explore our support services.

Chromebooks are available for checkout at the Library. If you need it for classes at ECC, let us know at circdesk@elgin.edu.

If you need Wi-Fi for your studies, learn more about affordable or free wi-fi options for students.

Additional Support

Is an Online Degree or Certificate Right for Me?

Starting an online program gives you the flexibility to switch back to a traditional degree path or add in some in-person classes if your learning preferences change. At ECC, we provide choices, such as online, hybrid, and in-person classes, so you can pick the learning style that fits you best. If you’re not sure if an online program is the right choice, you can try a couple of online classes or take a free Study Skills Survey from the Online Assessment System for Internet Students.

Planning to Transfer

ECC is the ideal place to start a bachelor's degree. Many universities offer online bachelor's degrees in various programs. To ensure a smooth transition from ECC to your chosen institution, we strongly encourage you to schedule a meeting with one of our academic advisors to create a personalized academic plan that aligns with the requirements of your intended bachelor's degree program.

Transfer Services