Career training programs are perfect for the student who is looking to move into a job as quickly as possible.
Many of the non-credit career training options offered by Corporate & Community Services can be completed in only a few months! We focus on fast-growing professions in health care, real estate, technology and transportation.
We utilize experienced and licensed instructors to teach our hands-on classes. Our schedules keep your busy lives in mind as most of our classes are offered in the evenings and on weekends.
Our registration fees are budget-friendly and often include the cost of textbooks and supplies. Financial assistance is even available for eligible students in some programs.
Fall 2023 Community & Continuing Education CatalogThe buildings and structures around us have an incredible impact on our lives. Every day we live, attend school, work worship and even play in these buildings. Architects design these structures keeping both art and science in mind as they blend beauty with function and safety. You will love this fun, fast-paced class filled with hands-on activities as we explore architecture and what it takes to become an architect. Topics include: sketching, drafting, designing and building. Must be 15 or older to register for this class.
Fall | Tuesdays, Sept. 5-26 | 6-9 p.m. | Main Campus | $250
Have you ever thought about a career in the field of automotive technology? This seminar is an opportunity to learn about essential car care and maintenance procedures as well as the latest in automotive technology. Learn what basic maintenance checks a professional automotive service technician performs on a vehicle such as checking fluid levels, fan belts and wiper blades, checking tire pressures, changing a tire and inspecting the brakes. A demonstration of current PC-based repair equipment is also included as well as how to use a professional service information system. Finally, learn about the different career opportunities that are available through the field of automotive technology. Must be 15 or older to register for this class.
Fall | Wednesday, Nov. 15 | 6-9 p.m. | Main Campus | $50
This two-evening course is designed to introduce electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid-electric vehicle (HEV) technology, systems and safety to a variety of technicians involved in the maintenance, service and repair sectors of the automotive and light-duty truck industry. During this course, attendees will become familiar with EVs and HEVs and will be able to describe electric vehicle technology to customers, employees and supervisors. A focus on working safely around electric vehicles will be emphasized. The course will alternate between classroom instruction and hands-on lab activities. Must be 15 or older to register for this class.
Fall | Tuesday & Thursday, Sept. 19 & 21 | 6-9 p.m. | Main Campus | $100
This course is designed to explore the many opportunities available to students who are thinking about pursuing a degree in veterinary technology. Careers including small animal medicine, large animal medicine, research, exotic animals, wildlife rehabilitation and education will be overviewed. This course is taught by a licensed veterinary technician. Must be 15 or older to register for this class.
Fall | Wednesdays, Sept. 6 & 13 | 2-4 p.m. | Main Campus | $75
Are you considering a career in welding? Do you have a welder in the corner of your garage and want to be able to effectively use it? This course is an opportunity to dip your feet in the vast world of the welding industry. This course will cover the basics of the two most common welding processes: SMAW (stick welding) and GMAW (MIG welding). Topics include: basic arc welding theory, welding safety, machine setup and technique. This course will be 40 percent classroom discussion and 60 percent hands-on learning.
Fall | Fridays, Oct. 13-27 | 6-9 p.m. | Main Campus | $350
Joliet Junior College is partnering with Green Flower to offer online programs in dispensary and cannabis industry career training.
Get the knowledge and credibility needed to pursue a career in cannabis extraction, developing and manufacturing cannabis products or even starting your own cannabis brand. Our 9-week online program aims to empower you with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a highly regarded and sought-after cannabis professional. With a focus on developing and manufacturing various cannabis products, including edibles, tinctures and topicals, this program provides a comprehensive understanding of the cannabis supply chain and foundational skills required to excel in the industry. Cost of the course is $750. Payment plans available. For more information about the course and registration, visit cannabis.jjc.edu.
Joliet Junior College is partnering with Green Flower to offer online programs in dispensary and cannabis industry career training.
Get equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful, in-demand cannabis retail professional. Delivered through a blend of engaging video lectures, comprehensive readings and interactive e-learning modules, our 9-week online program is exclusively taught by distinguished industry experts and operators. This program is designed to equip you with the fundamental knowledge of the cannabis supply chain, as well as the essential skills to succeed in the cannabis retail environment. By completing this program, you'll acquire the credibility and knowledge required to build a rewarding career in cannabis retail, work in a dispensary or even start you own dispensary. Cost of the course $750. Payment plans available. For more information and registration, visit cannabis.jjc.edu.
Joliet Junior College is partnering with Green Flower to offer online programs in dispensary and cannabis industry career training.
Get empowered with the knowledge and skills needed to become a respected and in-demand cannabis cultivation professional. Our 9-week online program offers a comprehensive understanding of the cannabis industry and cultivation best practices. The program features a diverse range of learning resources, including engaging video lectures, informative readings and interactive e-learning modules that equip you with the requisite skills and knowledge to excel in the thriving cannabis cultivation industry. Upon completion, you'll have the credibility and knowledge necessary to establish a successful career in cannabis cultivation, work in indoor or outdoor grow operations, or even launch your own cultivation business. Cost of the course is $750. Payment plans available. For more information and registration, visit cannabis.jjc.edu.
The need for dental assistants is growing at more than 10 percent per year. This one-hour, free information session provides an overview of the dental Industry and a career as a dental assistant. You’ll also learn more about the curriculum, externship and options for certification.
Fall | Monday, Aug. 21 | 6-7 p.m. | Main Campus | Free
Prepare for an entry-level position in one of the fastest growing health care professions – dental assisting. This course will familiarize you with all areas of administrative and clinical dental assisting, focusing on the responsibilities required to function as an assistant in a dental practice. Administrative topics include the history of dentistry and dental assisting, introduction to the dental office, the legal aspects of dentistry, policies and guidelines. Clinical aspects include an introduction to oral anatomy, dental operatory, dental equipment, introduction to tooth structure, primary and permanent teeth, the oral cavity and related structures, proper patient positioning, dental handpieces, sterilization and more. After successful completion of the classroom portion, you have the option of completing a 40-hour clinical externship. The registration fee is $1,399. Includes textbooks and supplies. Costs not included: AHA BLS CPR Certification, health and safety requirements needed before clinical externship, certification exams. Prerequisite: high school diploma or GED equivalent, and at least 18 years old.
Fall | Mondays & Wednesdays, Sept. 25-Nov. 15 | 6-9:45 p.m. | Main Campus | $1,400
EKG training is one of the quickest routes to a career in allied healthcare. This one-hour, free information session provides details about a career as an EKG technician. You’ll learn more about the curriculum, externship and options for certification.
Fall | Monday, Aug. 28 | 6-7 p.m. | Main Campus | Free
With an aging population, the need for health care services has grown. EKG technicians conduct tests on patients for diagnostic purposes. In the 60-hour classroom portion of this program, you’ll explore the anatomy and physiology of the heart and techniques for performing a 12-lead EKG. You’ll learn to identify rhythms and rhythm abnormalities and how cardiac medications affect an EKG. You’ll also become familiar with recordkeeping, patient confidentiality and administrative tasks. Students are encouraged to write for national certification with Cardiovascular Credentialing International. Prerequisite: high school diploma or GED equivalent, at least 18 years old, Adult Basic Learning Examination. The registration fee is $995. Costs not included: textbook.
Fall| Mondays & Wednesdays, Sept. 25-Nov. 15 | 6-9:45 p.m.
Students will register after completing the prerequisite testing and being accepted into the program.
The growing health care industry requires knowledgeable coders. This one-hour, free information session provides an overview of the intense curriculum needed to be successful at certification while highlighting the many benefits that a career in medical coding has to offer.
Fall | Wednesday, Aug. 2 | 6-7 p.m. | Main Campus
Spring | Wednesday, Dec. 6 | 6-7 p.m. | Main Campus
Earn a medical coding certificate and prepare to take the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Exam. Rapid growth in the number of medical tests, treatments and procedures that will be required by our aging population, as well as increasingly complex insurance and governmental regulations, will generate employment growth in this field. Job opportunities are predicted in physicians’ offices, home health care services and outpatient care centers. Joliet Junior College has partnered with the Frankfort Chapter of the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) to offer this intensive course, which requires at least 10-12 hours of work outside of the classroom. Topics include medical terminology, ICD coding, CPT coding and much more. This unique partnership offers hands-on training and access to a network of other certified medical coders. The exam is given on the last day of the class at JJC. This class meets the requirements to exempt you from one year of on-the-job training needed to satisfy the AAPC apprenticeship obligation on your certification. The registration fee is $2,495. Includes textbook, AAPC membership, AAPC licensing exam. Prerequisite: high school diploma or GED equivalent, at least 18 years old.
Fall | Wednesdays & Saturdays, Aug. 16-Nov. 15. | Wednesdays 6-9 p.m.; Saturdays 9 a.m.-Noon | Main Campus | $2,800
For updated information about Wages & Employment Outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
Learn about the pharmacy industry, the program's curriculum, the clinical externship and certification.
Fall | Tuesday, Sept. 5 | 6-7 p.m. | Main Campus | Free
This comprehensive, 50-hour program will prepare students to work in a retail or other pharmacy setting and to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam. Course includes: pharmacy medical terminology, the history of pharmacy, the pharmacy practice in multiple environments, pharmacy calculations and measurements, reading and interpreting prescriptions and defining drugs by generic and brand names. Through classroom lecture and hands-on labs, students will review dosage calculations, drug classifications, the "top 200 drugs," I.V. flow rates, sterile compounding, dose conversions, aseptic technique, the handling of sterile products, total parenteral nutrition (TPN), dispensing of prescriptions, inventory control and billing and reimbursement. This program meets the necessary requirement to take the Pharmacy Technician Certified Board (PTCB) -- Certified Pharmacy Technician exam. As part of the program, you will be eligible to participate in an 80-hour clinical externship. Price includes textbooks and supplies. Costs not included: PTCB certification exam and health and safety requirements. Prerequisite: high school diploma and GED equivalent, at least 18 years old.
Fall | Tuesdays & Thursdays, Oct. 3-Nov. 21 | 6-9:30 p.m. | Main Campus | $1,500
The health care industry is consistently in need of phlebotomists. This one-hour, free information session provides information about a career in phlebotomy and an overview of the non-credit program.
Spring | Wednesday, Nov. 15 | 6-7 p.m. | Main Campus | Free
Prepare for a career as a phlebotomy technician. This 60-hour course will consist of lectures, discussions, skills practice and tests, written exams and a clinical experience to provide students adequate preparation to be hired as an entry-level phlebotomist. Lab time will be provided during each class allowing students to develop skills in venipuncture and skin puncture techniques as well as specimen processing. A supervised, 120-hour clinical experience allows students an opportunity to further develop the competencies needed to become a phlebotomist. Successful completion of the classroom and clinical experience provides eligibility to take the American Society for Clinical Pathology certification exam. Costs not included: textbook, AHA BLS CPR certification, health and safety requirements needed before clinical externship, certification exam. Prerequisite: high school diploma or GED equivalent, at least 18 years old, Adult Basic Learning Examination.
Fall | Mondays & Wednesday, Aug. 9-Oct. 4 | 5-9 p.m. | Main Campus | $1,700
(No class Sept. 4 & 6)
Students are registered after completing the prerequisite testing and being accepted into the program.
This one-hour free information session provides information about a career in process operations technology and just how quickly students can complete training.
Spring | Thursday, Nov. 9 | 6-7 p.m. | Main Campus | Free
Switch to a career with a future and train to work in process operations technology. You'll gain the fundamental skills needed to work as a process technician in this fast-track program that prepares you for the job market in four to-five months. After gaining a foundation in math, chemistry and physics, you'll be provided basic skills in electrical, motors, instrumentation, pumps, furnaces/heaters, plant systems, refrigeration, cooling towers and much, much more. The registration fee is $2,600. Includes textbooks and materials. Prerequisite: high school diploma or GED equivalent, at least 18 years old and Adult Basic Learning Examination.
Students are registered after completing the prerequisite testing and being accepted into the program.
Call 815.280.1555 or email processoperator@jjc.edu.
Course Fees
The course fee is $2,600. There are no additional charges for books or supplies.
Financial Assistance
You can take advantage of the Workforce Investment Act. Contact your local job service office to see if you qualify for Workforce Investment funds.
This is the first step to obtain an Illinois home inspector license. This program is great if you want to learn what the home inspectors know. It is not just for those seeking a home inspector license. Real estate brokers, investors and anyone wanting to know more about building construction, building science and just plain figuring things out will want to take this class. Topics include the physical systems and components of a home, communication skills, Illinois law, knowledge of professional practices, as well as what may go wrong and the cause and implications of the problems that result. Our instructor is a veteran licensed home inspector and active member of the Illinois Association of Home Inspectors. In addition to taking this class, applicants must complete five field events hosted by our instructors and pass the Home Inspection State Licensing Exam before they are eligible for a license in the state of Illinois. Email access and an internet connection are required. The online portion of the class is self-paced. The in-person field events need to be scheduled through the instructor because seats are limited. Each field event lasts around 3 hours. Field events occur at least once a month throughout the state of Illinois. The course fee is $250. Costs not included: field events, state exam and license.
Fall | Dates and times vary | Hybrid
Start your career in real estate! This one-hour, free information webinar answers many questions first-time real estate students have about getting their license. Review classes needed and exam requirements while discovering the many benefits that a career in real estate has to offer.
Fall | Wednesday, Sept. 6 | 6-7 p.m. | Main Campus | Free
Complete this introductory 60-hour webinar course, plus the 15-hour Advanced Real Estate Principles Course (MGT 4310), to qualify and prepare for the Illinois Real Estate Broker License state examination. All required topics are covered, including license law, real property, agency, seller and buyer relationships, state and federal laws, marketing, market analysis, appraisal and contracts. Registration fee is $800. Includes textbook. Costs not included: MGT 4310 and licensing exam. Prerequisite: high school diploma or GED equivalent, at least 18 years old.
Fall | Tuesdays & Thursdays, Sept. 19-Nov. 9 | 6-9:45 p.m. | Webinar | $800
Complete this introductory 60-hour online course, plus the 15-hour Applied Real Estate Principles Course (MGT 4310), to qualify and prepare for the Illinois Real Estate Broker License state examination. All required topics are covered within our online learning management system, including: license law, real property, agency, seller and buyer relationships, state and federal laws, marketing, market analysis, appraisal and contracts. NOTE: This class includes a complete, self-guided, online course, with virtual instructor support. Registration fee is $800. Includes textbook. Costs not included: MGT 4310, licensing exam. Prerequisite: high school diploma or GED equivalent, at least 18 years old.
Fall | Sept. 19-Nov. 9 | Online | $800
Complete this 15-hour course, plus the 60-hour Real Estate Broker Pre-License Course (MGT 4300 or MGT 4305), to qualify and prepare for the Illinois Real Estate Broker License state examination. Apply what you’ve learned in the introductory course through case studies and role playing activities. All required topics are covered, including: listing presentations, buyer representations, purchase agreements, negotiating, closing costs and antitrust. Registration fee is $250. Includes textbook. Costs not included: MGT 4300/4305, licensing exam. Prerequisite: high school diploma or GED equivalent, at least 18 years old.
Fall | Tuesdays & Thursdays, Nov. 28-Dec. 7 | 6-9:45 p.m. | Webinar | $250
Designed for individuals with little or no commercial driving experience, this program includes everything you need to receive a Commercial Driver’s License. You will receive a Department of Transportation physical, Commercial Driver’s License learner’s permit and endorsement preparation as well as Department of Transportation rules and regulations, log books, instruction in map reading and trip planning, and complete vehicle training to prepare you for an entry-level position in the trucking industry. In addition, the program includes the Class A Road Test, which is administered by the Secretary of State. A minimum of 160 hours of instruction is required. Training is Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students are required to take a physical/drug screening test.
For more information or to register, call 815.280.6902 or email CDLinfo@jjc.edu.
Full-time day classes start every Monday.
The course fee is $5,195. Check, money order, MasterCard, Visa will be accepted. There are no additional charges for books or supplies. The Class A licensing fee, drug screening and physical examination is included in the registration fee.
You can take advantage of the Workforce Investment Act. Contact your local job service office to see if you qualify for Workforce Investment funds.
To receive a refund (less any expense incurred), a student must withdraw, in writing, by the end of the second day of class.
For updated information about Wages & Employment Outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
In order to participate in the CDL B training, students must attend the Pre-Hire Event where they will meet with representatives from Pace, learn more about the program and begin the screening process, which includes application completion, an assessment questionnaire and a background check. All candidates must bring a valid Illinois driver's license and a DMV or Secretary of State Motor Vehicle Report (also called 'Driving Record Abstract' in Illinois) with no more than two infractions or tickets in the last five years.
Fall T1 | Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 6-9 p.m. | Main Campus | Free
Fall T2 | Wednesday, Nov. 1 | 6-9 p.m. | Main Campus | Free
Developed in partnership with Pace Suburban Bus, students will gain an understanding of the current laws, rules and regulations that govern the operation of a Class B Commercial Motor Vehicle. This course provides students with the tools and resources needed to sit for and pass the examinations to obtain an Illinois Secretary of State Class B Commercial Driver's License. Upon successful passage of the examination at the end of the two-week course, students will continue their training as employees of Pace. Participants must be 21 years old, have a valid Illinois driver's license and obtain a court-ordered Motor Vehicle Report (also called a Driving Record Abstract) with a good driving record for the last five years. The cost of the MVR is $12, but Pace covers all other costs associated with training, making the program free for participants.
Fall T1 | Monday-Friday, Sept. 11-22 | 6-9 p.m. | Weitendorf | Free
Fall T2 | Monday-Friday, Dec. 4-15 | 6-9 p.m. | Weitendorf | Free
Students are registered after they have attended the Pre-Hire Event and completed the screening process.
Experience drive time on various forklifts including the Walkie Rider, Sit Down and Narrow Aisle/Stand Up and earn the National Safety Council Certification for Industrial Lift Trucks. The Joliet Junior College district has become a distribution center for the Midwest in the last decade. Local warehouses and distribution centers offer numerous job openings for trained industrial truck drivers. The powered industrial truck, commonly referred to as the forklift, is used in every distribution center, major retail store and manufacturing facility. Includes textbook and certification. Prerequisite: at least 18 years old.
Summer | Monday-Thursday | July 31-Aug. 3 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. | Weitendorf | $849
Fall | Monday-Thursday, Nov. 6-9 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. | Weitendorf | $850
For updated information about Wages & Employment Outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
Corporate & Community Services partners with educational providers to offer online training programs. This allows you to start your new career on your own time from your own home.
More information and registration
CareerStep provides flexible, online training options in computers, network & security and healthcare.
More information and registration is available on the CareerStep website or by clicking on one of the following programs:
More information and registration
ed2go offers interactive career training courses that you can take entirely over the internet. All courses are led by expert instructors. More information and registration is available on the ed2go career training website or by clicking one of the following programs:
More information and registration
Offered in partnership with LERN, UGotClass provides online course and certifications.
More information and registration is available on the UGotClass website or by clicking on one of the following programs:
Please contact Training Coordinator Kira Gleason at (815) 280-1423 or email kgleason@jjc.edu.
The Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act provide scholarships for those who meet eligibility guidelines based on income and/or unemployment.
Contact your county Workforce Development Office:
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions regarding our career training programs. We are here to help!
815.280.1555
Training Coordinator
815.280.1423
kgleason@jjc.edu
In the event of important deadlines or class dates changing due to COVID-19, please visit JJC's COVID FAQ page for the most up-to-date information. All continuing education courses will follow JJC's COVID-19 precautions.
Joliet Junior College reserves the right to photograph or film program participants. Photos and recordings are for college use only and may be used in college publicity materials and social media. Please notify programming staff if you do not wish to be photographed or filmed.
