Empowering Tomorrow: Navigating Technology Through Community and Lifestyle

As a new year commences, many individuals are establishing objectives and drafting plans for the future. At Lincoln Land Community College, our goal is to change lives and enhance our communities through education. Learning serves as a means for achieving the aspirations we set for ourselves throughout our lifetime.

The pace of transformation in the modern world is rapid, greatly influenced by technological advancements. Technology is perpetually evolving and influences numerous facets of our existence. If you find yourself fascinated by tech, enjoy problem-solving, and aim to make a positive difference in the world through technology, now is an ideal time to establish objectives, devise plans, and even take steps for your future in the realms of information technology and computer science.

At Lincoln Land Community College, we provide an extensive array of opportunities in information technology, encompassing short-term certifications and associate degree programs designed as preparation for further collegiate degree programs.

Acquire knowledge and proficiency in connecting hardware components and devices, as well as in troubleshooting, configuring, and managing networks with the network administration certification. This can be undertaken part-time over two semesters, allowing students to work while attending online college. The four courses included in the certification align with industry-recognized credentials, preparing students to take the CompTIA A+ and Network+ certification exams (for more information on certification exams: www.comptia.org/certifications). All courses within this certificate may also be credited towards the associate of applied science (AAS) degree outlined below.

The help desk certificate equips you for an entry-level role assisting computer users in addressing their daily technical issues. The courses are synchronized with industry-recognized credentials, and you will be prepared to sit for CompTIA IT Fundamentals and Google IT Support Pro certifications. These courses can also be integrated as part of an AAS degree at LLCC. Over the past year, many graduates have leveraged this certificate for entry-level positions within the state of Illinois.

Cybersecurity is a burgeoning field, and LLCC offers a comprehensive array of courses suitable for both newcomers and IT professionals desiring to familiarize themselves with cybersecurity fundamentals. The courses equip students to qualify for various industry certifications, including CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA CySA+.

The AAS degree program enables students to study computer science broadly, focusing on courses that lead directly to career opportunities within four semesters of full-time study. As noted previously, students completing courses as part of the networking or help desk certificate programs can apply their credits toward this degree. These stackable credentials allow students to pursue employment early, initiating their careers while continuing education at LLCC. This offers valuable industry experience while allowing for earning income during schooling. For those not inclined toward obtaining a four-year degree, this can be a superb pathway.

LLCC also provides the traditional associate of science degree in computer science. This program incorporates general education courses alongside a carefully curated selection of computer science classes that create a robust foundation for further study at a four-year institution. Graduates from LLCC have utilized our program as a launching pad to achieve their bachelor’s degree while significantly reducing the financial burden of education.

The faculty at LLCC holds commendable credentials coupled with recent industry experience. They remain updated on trends within the IT sector and IT education. Faculty members consistently amend their classes to reflect shifts in industry expectations and certifications. LLCC’s courses are designed to be current and pertinent to the industry.

If any of these pathways capture your interest, visit www.llcc.edu/computer-science to discover more, or obtain information on initiating your journey at www.llcc.edu/new. There is still time to enroll before the spring semester commences on Jan. 13. LLCC Student Services and Bookstore are extending hours for spring registration at the Springfield campus: Tuesday-Thursday, Jan. 7-9, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday, Jan. 10, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Saturday, Jan. 11, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

For further inquiries, contact LLCC’s Mathematics and Computer Science Department at 217-786-2386, and we can arrange a meeting to explore your options. Computer science is a thrilling choice for education and training, and we would be delighted to assist you in launching your journey toward achieving your goals.

Dr. Scott Searcy is the dean of mathematics and computer science, Lincoln Land Community College.