Education - Program Overview
Guide and inspire tomorrow's leaders
Prepare for a meaningful career in education and make a lasting impact in your community. With an associate of arts degree from the College of Lake County, you’ll build a strong foundation in teaching and learning while developing the skills to support students of all backgrounds and abilities.
Start your journey toward becoming an educator in the area that inspires you most—elementary, special, or secondary education. You’ll gain the knowledge and experience needed to continue on to a bachelor’s degree in education and become a licensed teacher.
Build your teaching career with real-world experience
Learn through active, hands-on experiences that connect classroom theory with real-world teaching. Courses emphasize collaboration, creativity and effective instructional strategies that prepare you for today’s diverse schools.
CLC’s education programs offer:
- Strong transfer agreements with four-year universities
- Field experiences in local school districts
- Partnerships with area schools that open doors to future job opportunities
- Diversity, equity and inclusion-focused curriculum
- Experienced instructors with K–12 classroom backgrounds
- Study abroad opportunities to gain global teaching experience
At CLC, start your journey to become an educator for the teaching level you are most passionate about. Explore your program options and let us know what interests you. We'll help you get started.
Highlights
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Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities
Explore ways to pay for college (based on need/achievement). -
Transfer Degrees Available
Save money on your first 2 years and transfer your credits to the 4-year school of your choice -
Program Length: 2 Years
Finish your associate degree in 2 years as a full-time student.
Choose your education program
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Transfer Degree
Elementary Education A.A.
Associate in Arts- Cost
- $10,500* (estimated)
- Available 100% Online
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Transfer Degree
Secondary Education A.A.
Associate in Arts- Cost
- $10,500* (estimated)
- Available 100% Online
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Transfer Degree
Special Education A.A.
Associate in Arts- Cost
- $10,500* (estimated)
- Available 100% Online
*Estimated cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours for full-time students for academic year 2025-2026. This includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees, before financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials, and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.
Transfer degree: What to expect
For students planning to transfer to a 4-year college or university for a bachelor’s degree.
These programs are built around general education classes that lead to an associate degree designed to transfer to a 4-year school. CLC participates in the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) to ensure that approved courses will transfer to other participating colleges and universities. Transfer degrees typically take 2 years* to complete.
*Assumes full-time enrollment.
Need help getting started?
Ask us for help. Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) will help you:
- complete the admission process
- choose an academic program
- enroll in first-semester classes
- get access to helpful resources
Early Childhood Education: Teach young children
Be a leader for the littlest ones as an early childhood educator. Discover degrees and certificates that prepare you to nurture and teach younger children aged 0 to 8 years old.
Transfer-focused courses
Gain practical skills in classroom management, instructional strategies, lesson planning, educational psychology, child development and technology integration. Field experiences let you apply theory in real classrooms, preparing you for teacher certification and transfer to a bachelor’s program.
Apply now: It's easy and free
Complete the application form to begin your program.
After you apply, a Career and College Navigator (CCN) will reach out to answer your questions, guide your next steps and help you get enrolled. Explore steps to apply at CLC.
Small classes, affordable tuition and a smooth transfer path
At CLC, you'll learn in a supportive, student-centered environment where instructors focus on teaching—not research. Enjoy one-on-one mentoring, personalized feedback and meaningful connections that help you succeed in your education degree pathway.
Build a strong foundation in education with the same core curriculum offered at four-year universities. You'll benefit from small class sizes, accessible instructors and affordable tuition—making it easier to transfer and complete your bachelor’s degree in education.
Our Academic Success Advisors will guide you through course selection and ensure your credits transfer seamlessly to your chosen university.
What students say about CLC
On your way to an associate degree in education
Dr. Michelle Proctor, chair of CLC's Education department, explains what to expect when you start your college journey in education at CLC. Attend classes online or in person. Watch the video:
Meet our instructors
Experience the benefit of small class sizes and personalized instruction.
CLC education programs in the news
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Passion drives a second career in education
It took a few career paths, but John Randolph found what he was looking in life for as an educator. Randolph is currently the principal at Round Lake Middle School. -
Career Spotlight: Education
Teaching is an in-demand career that is rewarding and has good benefits. Learn how CLC saves you money while preparing you to excel in this noble field. -
How to transfer credits from CLC to a 4-year college
Starting at College of Lake County, then transferring to a 4-year school, saves you money. And you're more likely to complete a bachelor's degree. Follow these steps during your time at CLC to prepare for a smooth transfer to your school of choice. -
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Get a global education
Five short-term study abroad trips were announced for 2025.
Take the next step...
Be debt-free at CLC
CLC has some of the lowest tuition around. Financial aid and scholarships are available—even for working adults.
Explore careers
Discover majors and career paths to complement and extend your intuitive interests and abilities.
Request info
Your education is a big investment of your time, money and attention. Gather all the info you need.
Get started
Start your application today—it’s free and easy to complete. When you’re ready, we’re ready to help you take the next step.