McHenry County College Campuses

McHenry County College's Crystal Lake Campus offers a comprehensive array of programs designed to meet the educational needs of the community. As a two-year community college, it provides associate degrees, certificates, and transfer opportunities to four-year institutions. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, career preparation, and foundational knowledge across various disciplines.

• Arts and Humanities: Courses in visual arts, music, theater, and literature foster creativity and cultural understanding. Students can pursue an Associate of Arts degree with emphases in fine arts, graphic design, or performing arts, including classes in drawing, painting, digital media, and art history.
• Business and Professional Studies: The business division offers programs in accounting, management, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Key courses include principles of accounting, business law, economics, and computer applications for business, preparing students for entry-level positions or transfer to bachelor's programs.
• Health Sciences: Renowned for its nursing and allied health programs, the campus provides training in registered nursing, practical nursing, medical assisting, and emergency medical services. Courses cover anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, patient care, and clinical practicums in local healthcare facilities.
• Science and Mathematics: Associate of Science degrees focus on biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. Lab-based courses include general biology, organic chemistry, calculus, and statistics, ideal for students planning to transfer to STEM fields at universities.
• Engineering and Technology: Programs in engineering technology, computer-aided design, and information technology feature hands-on learning. Courses such as introductory engineering, programming in Java and Python, networking fundamentals, and cybersecurity essentials equip students for technical careers.
• Social Sciences: Offerings in psychology, sociology, history, and political science support liberal arts transfers. Classes explore human behavior, social structures, American history, and global politics, with opportunities for research and discussion-based learning.
• Education and Early Childhood: Teacher education programs prepare future educators with courses in child development, curriculum planning, and inclusive education practices. Certificates in early childhood education are available for immediate workforce entry.
• Public Services: Criminal justice and fire science programs include training in law enforcement procedures, corrections, firefighting techniques, and emergency management, often with partnerships for internships and certifications.
• Vocational and Workforce Development: Short-term certificates in welding, automotive technology, HVAC, and culinary arts provide quick entry into trades. Courses emphasize safety, technical skills, and industry standards, with modern labs and equipment.
• General Education: Core requirements in English composition, communications, and humanities ensure well-rounded education, supporting all degree paths.

The campus also offers continuing education, ESL classes, and customized workforce training. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, students receive personalized support. Programs are continually updated to align with local industry needs in McHenry County, ensuring high employability rates. Transfer agreements with universities like Northern Illinois University facilitate seamless progression. Overall, the Crystal Lake Campus serves over 8,000 students annually, promoting lifelong learning and community engagement through diverse course offerings that blend theory with practical application.