Richland Community College in Decatur, Illinois, provides a comprehensive array of associate degree programs, certificates, and transfer opportunities designed to meet the educational needs of diverse students. The campus emphasizes career-oriented education alongside foundational liberal arts courses, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the workforce or further studies at four-year institutions.
Core academic programs include Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) degrees for transfer to universities, covering subjects such as English, mathematics, history, psychology, biology, chemistry, and physics. These programs foster critical thinking, communication skills, and scientific literacy essential for bachelor's degree pursuits.
- Business and Management: Courses in accounting, marketing, management principles, business law, and entrepreneurship equip students for entry-level positions or advanced business studies. The curriculum includes practical applications like financial analysis and organizational behavior.
- Health Sciences: Offerings encompass nursing (ADN program), medical assisting, radiologic technology, and emergency medical services. These hands-on programs feature clinical rotations and simulations to prepare students for healthcare careers, emphasizing patient care, anatomy, physiology, and medical ethics.
- Information Technology: Programs in computer programming, cybersecurity, web development, and networking cover languages like Java, Python, and SQL, along with hardware troubleshooting and data management, aligning with industry certifications such as CompTIA and Cisco.
- Engineering and Manufacturing: Technical certificates and degrees in manufacturing engineering technology, CAD design, and industrial maintenance teach skills in automation, robotics, quality control, and blueprint reading, supporting local industries in central Illinois.
- Liberal Arts and Humanities: Extensive options in fine arts, music, theater, foreign languages, and social sciences promote cultural awareness and creative expression through studio work, performances, and analytical writing.
- Education and Human Services: Preparation for teaching careers via early childhood education, elementary education transfers, and social work basics, including child development, curriculum planning, and community service learning.
- Agriculture and Environmental Science: Specialized courses in agronomy, horticulture, sustainable farming, and environmental studies address regional agricultural needs, with labs on soil science, pest management, and conservation practices.
Additionally, the campus offers workforce development through short-term certificates in areas like welding, HVAC, and truck driving, often in partnership with local employers. Continuing education includes non-credit classes in personal enrichment, such as art, fitness, and computer basics. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Richland ensures personalized support, including tutoring and career counseling. The curriculum evolves with community input, incorporating emerging fields like renewable energy and digital media to remain relevant. Overall, these programs total over 50 options, serving more than 3,000 students annually and boasting high transfer and employment rates.
