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Education

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Shape Futures and Inspire Change

If you are passionate about helping others learn, grow, and succeed, Highland’s Education K-12 and Early Childhood Education program can help you turn that passion into a meaningful career.

Whether you are interested in Education K–12, Early Childhood Education, or another teaching pathway, you can begin building the knowledge and experience needed to make a difference in classrooms, schools, and communities.

Highland’s Education K-12 and ECE programs provide a strong foundation in teaching, learning, child and adolescent development, diversity, classroom environments, and the responsibilities of today’s educators. You will also have opportunities to connect what you learn in class with real educational settings through observation and field experiences.

For students planning to become licensed teachers, Highland provides an affordable starting point before transferring to a four-year college or university to complete a bachelor’s degree and teacher preparation requirements.

Education can lead to careers as an elementary, middle, or high school teacher, early childhood educator, paraprofessional, special education teacher, ESL teacher, college educator, education specialist, or professional working in schools, colleges, universities, community organizations, and other learning environments.

Your future classroom can start at Highland. Build your foundation, explore your path, and prepare to inspire the next generation.

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For High School Students

Start Your Teaching Path Early

If you are a high school student considering a career in education, ask your school counselor about Dual Credit opportunities through Highland Community College.

Dual Credit may let eligible students earn college credit while still in high school and start working toward an associate degree and a future teacher preparation program.

Starting early can help you:

  • Explore whether teaching is right for you
  • Earn college credit
  • Reduce future college costs
  • Build toward an associate degree
  • Prepare for transfer to a four-year teacher education program
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Start at Highland. Go further.

Earn your associate degree in just four semesters, with online, hybrid and in-person course options to fit your life. Through Highland’s partnerships with Illinois State University, UW–Platteville, Western Illinois University and Northern Illinois University, you can plan your next step toward a bachelor’s degree—and the future you want.

Find Out More About Transfer Agreements

From Highland to Your Teaching Career

Your Path Starts Here. A typical transfer pathway toward becoming a licensed teacher may look like this:

Explore Education Careers & Salaries

1. Start at Highland

Complete general education and introductory professional education coursework.

2. Earn Your Associate Degree

Work with your advisor to select courses appropriate for your teaching area and intended transfer institution.

3. Transfer to a Four-Year University

Complete your bachelor’s degree, advanced education coursework, clinical experiences, and student teaching.

4. Complete Illinois Licensure Requirements

Meet the requirements established for your teaching field by the State of Illinois and your university.

5. Begin Your Teaching Career

Apply your education and classroom experience in schools and communities.

Faculty and Advising