Business and Computer Science

Industrial Machining Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Industrial Machining Certificate prepares graduates for entry-level work in manual and/or CNC machining.

Precision Ag Technology Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Precision Ag Technology certificate provides current students and graduates with the base knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the evolving ag industry. The certificate will increase competencies in global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), geographic information systems (GIS), precision ag software programs, precision ag equipment, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

Application Specialist Certificate

Certificate (CER)

This certificate highlights the accomplishment of obtaining top skills needed for employment using Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Completion of this certificate can be applied to the A.A.S. in Business Administrative Technology.

Photography

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Photography program prepares students for employment as studio photographers, photographer assistants, lab/print specialists, freelance photographers, studio managers, and small business owners. Courses cover the fundamentals of photography through studio photography; historical processes through digital photography; the development of a photography portfolio; and the business of photography.

Microsoft Administration Certificate

Certificate (CER)

This certificate gives students advanced skills for working with Windows Operating Systems (workstation and server) troubleshooting, configuration, and design.

Web Development Certificate

Certificate (CER)

Focuses on web development skills; completion of certificate can be applied to the A.A.S. in Data Systems and Development.

Agricultural Retail Operations

Certificate (CER)

The Agriculture Retail Operations certificate trains students in inventory management, computer skills, and agronomic and mathematics skills needed in day to day operations at retail facilities.

Construction Management

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Construction Management Program prepares students to enter the construction industry in technical, managerial, and supervisory roles in three major areas: residential and light commercial building construction, heavy commercial building construction, and civil construction (roads, bridges, utilities). Entry-level employment is generally in the areas of project management, field inspection, material testing, cost estimating, computer-aided drafting, and surveying.

Linux Administration Certificate

Certificate (CER)

This certificate prepares students with advanced skills for working with Linux operating systems. Topics include troubleshooting and configuration.

General Programming

Certificate (CER)

Builds foundational programming skills; completion of certificate can be applied to the A.A.S. in Data Systems and Development.

Industrial Maintenance Technology Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Industrial Maintenance Technology Program prepares students to install and maintain the electromechanical, mechanical pneumatic, and hydraulic systems used in manufacturing and building facilities. The student acquires knowledge of electrical power and motors, control systems, pumps, compressors, pneumatics, hydraulics, and power transfer devices. Students can expect to find employment as installers, technicians, and service representatives in manufacturing, sales, and customer service.

Land Surveying

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Land Surveying program prepares the student either for employment as a surveying technician or for transfer to a four-year degree program to become an Illinois professional land surveyor. Surveying technicians and professional land surveyors work in the fields of engineering, construction, land development, aerial photography, geographic information systems, agriculture, natural resource management, and government. Course work focuses on knowledge and hands-on skills needed for entry level employment and for professional licensing. All of the surveying courses offered in this program have been accepted by the Illinois Land Surveyors Licensing Board as meeting the requirements of the 24 credit hours required by the Illinois Professional Land Surveyor Act of 1989 and the Illinois Administrative Code as amended.

Business Administrative Technology: Administrative Assistant Track

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Business Administrative Technology Program prepares students for administrative and technical support positions. Skills addressed include software applications, workplace ethics, mathematics, bookkeeping, and communications. Work experience is required at the end of the program. This can transfer to EIU as a 2+2 program.

Economics

Associate in Arts (A.A.)

In 1776 Adam Smith called economics "an inquiry into the nature and causes of the wealth of nations." Today we think of economics more specifically as a social science that deals with the production, distribution, and consumption of commodities.

Agricultural Business Management

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Agricultural Business Management Program prepares students for positions in various agriculture businesses, including agricultural marketing and processing firms, fertilizer/chemical suppliers, seed dealers, and agriculture production and management.

Database Foundation Certificate

Certificate (CER)

Focuses on database applications; completion of certificate can be applied to the A.A.S. in Data Systems and Development.

Music Foundations: Music Technology Concentration

Associate in Arts (A.A.)

The Music Technology emphasis provides a foundation in music that prepares students for further study and careers in music fields such as music management, music production, sound engineering, sound design, music publishing and media promotion.

Communication: Media Communication Concentration

Associate in Arts (A.A.)

The Media Communication concentration provides the foundation for further study in mass communication related to areas such as advertising, public relations, audio/video/internet production, journalism, and media effects research. Students in this area are prepared for careers in mass media industries such as radio, television, entertainment, and journalism.

Customized Career Preparation

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

This program allows students to develop and pursue individualized programs of study that meet their own personal and career goals. With the assistance of the professional staff in career programs and departments, each student will develop a viable program of study during the first semester of enrollment at the college. This plan must receive approval of the assigned faculty mentor and the appropriate department chair(s). A unique aspect of this program is the awarding of credit for non-collegiate prior learning or work experience.

Business Administrative Technology: Customer Service Track

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Business Administrative Technology Program prepares students for administrative and technical support positions. Skills addressed include software applications, workplace ethics, mathematics, bookkeeping, and communications. Work experience is required at the end of the program. This can transfer to EIU as a 2+2 program.

Cisco Networking Certificate

Certificate (CER)

This certificate program prepares students with advanced skills for working with computer networks, Cisco routers, and switches. Wired and wireless networks are covered for troubleshooting, configuration, design, and repair.

Network Administration and Support

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Computer Network System Administrator program prepares students to manage and administer the computer networks of small to medium-sized enterprises. Students will learn to use a variety of operating systems: use, install, and maintain networks; program routers and switches; develop networking software and develop and study documentation used to manage a network. Students will receive extensive hands-on experience.

Office Specialist Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Office Specialist certificate equips students with general skills for entry level office professional positions. Completion of this certificate can be applied to the A.A.S. in Business Administrative Technology.

Geographic Information Systems

Certificate (CER)

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a method of using data gathered from various sources, including Global Position Satellite (GPS) systems, to develop "layers" of information about a geographic location. Applications are used in mapping streets, utilities, environmental markers, crime studies, and many other types of physical and societal information. It is an emerging industry that also has emerging career opportunities.

Mechanical Design Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Computer-Aided Drafting: Mechanical Design Program provides the student with an understanding of the machine design process and prepares the student for employment as a mechanical draft person working in a computer environment.

Entrepreneur Basics Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Entrepreneur Basics certificate is designed to help anyone who has started a business or who plans to start a business. Completion of these courses will help those involved in management of a business or any organization, whether or not they are an owner. Business owners may also find earning this certificate will help improve their credibility as they seek financing and sales, and increase their potential for success.

Communication: Media Arts and Production

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Media Arts and Production program prepares students for employment in small and medium market radio and TV stations as well as corporate communication and public relations offices. Because communication technology personnel must perform a variety of duties, this program stresses versatility. Communication courses offer students experience in live-audience and recorded speaking. Advertising and business courses involve students in other aspects of the communication industry. Audio, video and internet components are meshed with an understanding of the history and theory of development of the message. Students polish their skills by operating WPCD-FM, Parkland’s 10,500-watt educational radio station and filling production crew positions at PCTV, the college’s educational cable access channel.

Accounting Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Accounting Certificate Program prepares students for careers as junior accountants in business, industry, and government. This certificate can lead to a satisfying career as a payroll clerk or in general accounting, cost accounting, purchasing, inventory control, accounts receivable, accounts payable, tax assisting, or similar areas.

Digital Media: 3D Animation Software

Certificate (CER)

This certificate program equips students with technical skills and proficiency in high-end 3D computer animation software used in feature films, video, and commercial production, CAD/CAM, 3D gaming, and architectural design.

Associate in Arts, General

Associate in Arts (A.A.)

The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree is designed so that students may complete the lower-division (freshman and sophomore) portion of a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. The A.A. degree includes the transferable General Education Core courses and the lower-division Baccalaureate Major Field core courses recommended by the Illinois Articulation Initiative. All course work must be baccalaureate-oriented (courses numbered 100-289 whose second digit is even). The A.A. degree is ideally suited for students seeking a B.A. degree in areas such as liberal arts and sciences, English, psychology, and many other fields. Since admission to colleges and universities — and to specific majors — is often competitive, students planning to transfer should understand that completing the recommended courses alone does not guarantee admission. It is recommended that students fulfill the foreign language requirement of the program of the senior institution to which they are transferring. In general, credit for the four years of the same high school foreign language or credit for two years in the same foreign language at the college level satisfies the foreign language requirement of most bachelor of arts degrees.

Computer-Aided Drafting Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) Certificate prepares graduates for entry-level work as CAD technicians in industry.

Customer Service Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Customer Service Certificate is designed to help any student who is employed, or will be employed, in a business or organization that provides products or services to customers. Students successfully completing this certificate should be able to identify a comprehensive customer service strategy and implement the practical techniques needed to provide good service. Completion of this certificate can be applied to the A.A.S. in Business Administrative Technology.

Office Assistant Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Office Assistant certificate builds foundational office skills in one semester. Completion of this certificate can be applied to the A.A.S. in Business Administrative Technology.

Bookkeeping Office Assistant

Certificate (CER)

The Bookkeeping Office Assistant Certificate prepares the student with general knowledge of office and bookkeeping skills. Graduates may be employed by businesses as a bookkeeping assistant. Completion of this certificate can be applied to the A.A.S. in Business Administrative Technology.

Accounting Technologies

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Accounting Program prepares students for careers as junior accountants in business, industry, and government. This degree can lead to a satisfying career as a payroll clerk or in general accounting, cost accounting, purchasing, inventory control, accounts receivable, accounts payable, tax assistant, or similar career areas. Students receive a well-rounded background to help prepare for future management positions.

Business Marketing

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

Marketing is the process of directing products from the producer to the consumer. Students prepare for their marketing careers by learning the principles, practices, and methods of operations of different types of marketing firms.

Associate in Science, General

Associate in Science (A.S.)

The Associate in Science (A.S.) degree is designed to facilitate the transfer of students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (commonly known as STEM) disciplines into four-year institutions to complete a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. It replicates as closely as possible the lower division (freshman and sophomore) coursework required of students in their chosen STEM field of study. The A.S. degree includes the transferable General Education Core Curriculum courses and the lower-division Baccalaureate Major Field core courses recommended by the Illinois Articulation Initiative. All course work must be baccalaureate-oriented (courses numbered 100- 289 whose second digit is even). Students should note that the A.S. degree requires only 31 to 35 hours of general education coursework and does not fully satisfy the IAI General Education Core Curriculum requirements. Two additional courses to complete the general education requirements may be taken after transferring. The A.S. degree is so designed to enable students to take more university majors required coursework in the first two years thereby achieving junior status upon transferring. At the same time, it permits STEM students to complete the associate’s degree prior to transferring.

Business Administrative Technology: Bookkeeping Track

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Business Administrative Technology Program prepares students for administrative and technical support positions. Skills addressed include software applications, workplace ethics, mathematics, bookkeeping, and communications. Work experience is required at the end of the program. This can transfer to EIU as a 2+2 program.

Digital Media

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Digital Media program equips students with the skills necessary for the design of computer-generated applications and media. Areas include 3D animation and game design. The digital media program prepares students for employment in such areas as gaming, feature film, web design, video and commercial production, post-production, visual effects, and virtual and augmented reality. Students begin their training in classes in 2D and 3D fundamentals, imaging, and design. Students then study the aesthetic and design aspects of digital media with focused courses in graphic design, fine arts, and advanced imaging. This program transfers to the Bachelor's of Science in Media Arts in the School of Informatics and Computing at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI).

CAD: Structural and Civil Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Computer-Aided Drafting: Structural and Civil certificate prepares the student for employment as a drafting technician in the design of buildings, roads, utility systems, and site improvements. Course work includes 3D modeling for buildings and site work, automated drafting of survey data, geographic information systems, and computer networking.

Entrepreneurship Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Entrepreneurship Certificate is designed for owners, managers, and employees of existing or proposed businesses, entrepreneurial ventures, and independent businesses and organizations of all sizes. Completion of this certificate should strengthen the general business skills of present and aspiring business managers, especially those who manage a small business.

Communication: Media Production

Certificate (CER)

This certificate program is designed for students interested in media, music, computers, and the arts. It prepares students for entry-level positions that require in-depth knowledge of mass communication production techniques and software. Students will gain practical experience producing for radio, television, sports, music, film, and digital media. Graduates are employed as production assistants at radio or television stations or in corporate departments in gaming, music, film, or other entertainment industry fields.

Precision Ag Technology

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Precision Ag Technology Program prepares students for positions that require the use of current technology in agriculture such as global navigation satellite systems, geographic information systems, precision software programs, precision hardware/equipment, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Students are prepared for positions with soil testing companies, crop consulting firms, fertilizer and chemical suppliers, and agriculture equipment dealers.

Data Systems and Development

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Data Systems and Development program equips students for a wide range of opportunities as computer programmers and software designers. The program emphasizes fundamental database programming and fundamental web programming. Students begin their training with foundational language courses and then may choose from a wide variety of advanced, industry-specific courses to customize their degree. Students may also choose to select from a number of smaller degree certificates embedded within the software development program. This program transfers to EIU, UIS, and SIU under the 2+2 agreement.

General Studies

Associate in General Studies (A.G.S.)

The Associate in General Studies (A.G.S.) degree program consists of courses designed to meet individual goals for personal improvement and self-understanding. This program is designed for students who wish to earn an associate’s degree but not in a specific career or transfer area. This associate’s degree is not covered by the "articulation compact program" nor by the Illinois Articulation Initiative.

Business Management

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Management Program is designed for both students and managers. The courses highlight the type and nature of business firms as well as other forms of organizations such as government and education.

Computer Science

Associate in Science (A.S.)

Baccalaureate degree programs in Information Technology have traditionally grown from a number of different disciplines, including Mathematics, Business, and Engineering.  Computer Science (CS) degrees usually have a general theoretical emphasis.  Computer Information Systems (CIS) degrees have more of a business emphasis. Computer Engineering degrees have a hardware emphasis.  At the two year level, either the CS or CIS degree provides a good foundation for further study in most fields of Computer Science.  Engineering degrees are most specific to future engineering study.  To transfer into a baccalaureate degree program in Computer Science as a junior, students need to complete a minimum of 60 semester credits.  Students are strongly encouraged to complete an A.S. degree prior to transfer.  Since admission is competitive, completion of the recommended courses does not guarantee admission. Students should plan their transfer programs with a faculty advisor and the catalog of the four-year college or university they plan to attend.

Business Administrative Technology

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Business Administrative Technology Program prepares students for administrative and technical support positions. Skills addressed include software applications, workplace ethics, mathematics, bookkeeping, and communications. Work experience is required at the end of the program. This can transfer to EIU as a 2+2 program.

Business Administration

Associate in Science (A.S.)

Business administration programs include courses and majors in general business, accounting, finance, marketing, and management. The following recommendations apply to courses and programs in all of these fields. To transfer into a baccalaureate degree program in business administration as a junior, students need to complete a minimum of 60 semester credits. Students are strongly encouraged to complete an A.S. degree prior to transfer. Since admission is competitive, completion of the recommended courses does not guarantee admission. Students should plan their transfer programs with a Parkland academic success advisor and the degree requirements of the four-year college or university they plan to attend.

Business Administrative Technology: PC Support Track

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Business Administrative Technology Program prepares students for administrative and technical support positions. Skills addressed include software applications, workplace ethics, mathematics, bookkeeping, and communications. Work experience is required at the end of the program. This can transfer to EIU as a 2+2 program.

Communication: Public and Professional Communication Concentration

Associate in Arts (A.A.)

The Public and Professional Communication concentration provides a foundation for continued study in effective communication strategies and research in areas such as interpersonal, public address, organizational communication, and rhetorical studies. Public and Professional communication prepares students for careers in public service, customer relations, education, corporate management and leadership.

Agri-Business Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Agri-Business Certificate provides students with general knowledge in the areas of agri-marketing, agri-supply, and agricultural production.

Computer Foundations Certificate

Certificate (CER)

This certificate covers the basics of Windows and Linux operating systems, PC repair, and basic networking. Upon completion, students are prepared for entry-level PC support positions.

Computer Information Systems

Associate in Science (A.S.)

Baccalaureate degree programs in Information Technology have traditionally grown from a number of different disciplines, including Mathematics, Business, and Engineering.  Computer Science (CS) degrees usually have a general theoretical emphasis.  Computer Information Systems (CIS) degrees have more of a business emphasis. Computer Engineering degrees have a hardware emphasis.  At the two year level, either the CS or CIS degree provides a good foundation for further study in most fields of Computer Science.  Engineering degrees are most specific to future engineering study.  To transfer into a baccalaureate degree program in Computer Science as a junior, students need to complete a minimum of 60 semester credits.  Students are strongly encouraged to complete an A.S. degree prior to transfer.  Since admission is competitive, completion of the recommended courses does not guarantee admission. Students should plan their transfer programs with a faculty advisor and the catalog of the four-year college or university they plan to attend.

Computers in Business Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Computers in Business certificate introduces the student to the computer, providing keyboarding skills, file management, and introduces Microsoft Office, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Google Applications, preparing the student for entry to the Business Administrative Technology Program or the skills necessary for any college major.

Google IT Support Professional Certificate

Certificate (CER)

This certificate covers the fundamentals of IT support critical for success in entry-level IT support jobs. Includes troubleshooting and customer service, networking, operating systems, system administration, and security. Upon completion, students are prepared for entry-level PC support positions.

Business Administrative Technology: Business Track

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)

The Business Administrative Technology Program prepares students for administrative and technical support positions. Skills addressed include software applications, workplace ethics, mathematics, bookkeeping, and communications. Work experience is required at the end of the program. This can transfer to EIU as a 2+2 program.

Precision Ag Fundamentals Certificate

Certificate (CER)

The Precision Ag Fundamentals certificate will increase the knowledge and skill set of graduates in the rapidly evolving industry of precision agriculture. This introductory level certificate is designed to provide the fundamentals needed for entry-level internships in precision agriculture or as the foundation for continued study of precision agriculture.