Choose Online Learning

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 Online Learning?

Learn anytime with ECC’s online degrees and certificates—programs designed to provide flexibility and help you reach your goals. Classes are fully online and asynchronous, so you can study anytime without scheduled class times or in-person sessions required. Online programs are ideal for students managing work, family, and other responsibilities.

Online classes let you study anytime, anywhere, allowing you to learn around your own schedule, while participating in a structured learning environment. You can move ahead when ready or spend extra time on challenging topics, allowing for a personalized and flexible learning experience.

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.

Associate Degrees and Transfer Programs

Career and Technical Education Programs

How Do I Enroll in an Online Program?

Enrolling in an online program at ECC is simple and follows the same process as registering for any other ECC program. If you're new or returning to ECC after two years away, apply to ECC and indicate you want to complete your entire program online. Once you express interest, our admissions team will reach out to guide you through the next steps in the enrollment process.

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 support services like advising, tutoring, and wellness are available remotely, so there’s no need to visit 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 flexibility in your education. If your preferences or needs change, you can add in-person classes. At ECC, we provide choices, such as asynchronous, hybrid, and in-person classes, so you can pick the learning environment that fits you best. If you’re unsure if an online program is the right choice, try a couple of online classes or take a free Study Skills Survey from the Online Assessment System for Internet Students (OASIS).

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

Request Support

For non-D2L Assistance, please see the Academic Resources Page.

Student D2L Support
Faculty D2L Support
Phone Support: 847-214-7620 (during business hours)

Contact

D2L Technical Help

Building C, Room C210
847-214-7620

Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 5 pm
Friday: 8 am to 4:30 pm

ECC Resources

Knowing when and where to turn for help is a cornerstone of any real achievement. The following ECC Resources will help you on your journey.