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Elgin Community College
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Student working on a machine beside his instructor.

A New Career in Less Than a Year Build skills for a brighter future in less than 12 months.

Spark Your Success

Train for a Career in a Year or Less

Build job-ready skills with a short-term certificate that can prepare you for a new career in less than one year.

Flexible Learning That Fits Your Life

Balance work, family, and school with certificate programs designed to fit your schedule while helping you prepare for your next career opportunity.

Financial Support

You may qualify for grants, scholarships, and workforce training programs that can make earning your certificate more affordable or even free.

Support Every Step of the Way

We’re ready to help you thrive in school. Get individualized support from people who care.

Short-Term Career Training Programs

Earn a certificate in less than a year and be ready to start or advance your career. Many programs are available in the evening. We offer short-term training in the following areas of study: 

  • Automotive
  • Business
  • Communication Design
  • Computer-Aided Design
  • Computer Information Systems
  • Fire and Emergency Services
  • Health Professions
  • Human Services
  • Maintenance and Operations
  • Manufacturing Production
  • Marketing and Advertising
  • Transportation

Note: Completion timelines may vary based on student availability, course scheduling, and start term.

Help Paying for College

Free Career Training
A healthcare training student practices a medical procedure on a patient simulator in a clinical classroom.

Free Career Training

You may qualify for WIOA and other grants that cover the cost of tuition for 75+ eligible career and technical education programs.

Learn While You Earn
A student and instructor review equipment controls together inside a manufacturing facility.

Learn While You Earn

Earn a paycheck while gaining hands-on experience through an apprenticeship that combines paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Financial Aid
A financial aid advisor speaks with a student across a desk while reviewing notes and information on a computer.

Financial Aid

Explore grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and flexible payment plans with guidance from our financial aid team.

Scholarships
A smiling graduate wearing a black cap and gown with blue and gold academic regalia stands among fellow graduates.

Scholarships

Apply for more than 200 scholarships available through ECC. Students who receive scholarships are awarded an average of $1,580.

ECC supported me not only academically, but also financially and personally. Through ESL tuition waivers, scholarships, advising, and mentoring, I was able to continue my education while supporting my family.

Tibisay Ocando, ECC Graduate

Portrait of Tibisay Ocando

Support for Your Success

You don’t have to navigate college alone. We’re here to help you succeed. Student support services include: 

  • Disability Services 
  • Free Tutoring 
  • Wellness Services 
  • Academic Advising 
  • Student Success Coaches 
  • Veterans Services 
  • Affordable Childcare 
  • Lending Library 
  • Career Coaching and Navigation 
  • Transportation Assistance (For those who qualify)