2-Year Degree Programs In Chicago
Two-year degree programs, commonly offered through community colleges and technical schools, are designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and specialized skills that can be applied directly to the workforce or serve as a steppingstone to further education. In Chicago, these special programs play a crucial role in making higher education accessible and affordable, offering a more cost-effective alternative to traditional four-year degrees. By focusing on practical training in fields such as healthcare, technology, business and skilled trades, 2-year programs contribute significantly to local workforce development, equipping students with the expertise needed to meet the demands of the job market.
Generations College offers a unique opportunity for career advancement and skill development – from social sciences to applied science to computer science and more. With a focus on flexible, hands-on learning and strong community ties, students at Generations College can gain the credentials necessary for immediate employment or further educational fulfillment, all while reducing the financial burden of tuition. These programs not only open doors to a wide array of career paths but also empower individuals to build a sustainable, fulfilling future.
Overview of Generations College
When you decide to take online or on-campus classes in Chicago at Generations College, you can choose from four primary associate degree programs:
- Court Reporting: Generations College has been educating the nation’s court reporting professionals since 1912! Our court reporting program is designed to give students the foundational knowledge and skills they need to become successful court reporters, steno interpreters, webcast captioners or broadcast captioners.
- Criminal Justice: Criminal justice degree candidates learn the fundamental skills to work in a variety of fields including law enforcement, corrections, probation, private security and others. Our two-year degree curriculum covers constitutional law, criminal law, procedural law, forensics, ethics and much more.
- Business Administration: Few degrees are as versatile as an associate degree in business administration. Generations College’s students graduate armed with the skills and knowledge they need to work in accounting, finance, technology, human resources or marketing — in either the for-profit or nonprofit sectors.
- Business Administration with a Concentration in Church Administration: Our newest on-campus program prepares our students for effective management and leadership within religious organizations. Graduates are equipped to handle the administrative responsibilities of a church, ensuring smooth and efficient operations that support the organization’s mission and community services.
- Entrepreneurial Studies: Students in this program are equipped with skills and knowledge necessary to start, manage, and grow their own businesses. Graduates are prepared to launch their own ventures or take on entrepreneurial roles within existing organizations.
- Paralegal Studies: Students in Generations College’s paralegal studies program learn to conduct legal research, prepare legal documents, hone their legal writing skills, and use critical thinking to support attorneys in either law firms or corporate legal settings. Earning a degree in paralegal studies can give graduates an edge over candidates without degrees. The degree demonstrates a significant commitment to learning about the legal profession.
In addition to meeting the core curriculum requirements of their chosen degree program, all Generations College degree candidates are required to develop competency in three core areas — communication skills, critical thinking skills and interpersonal skills. All the required coursework is available in the classroom at our downtown Chicago campus as well as online.
Some students choose to attend college on our campus during traditional daytime hours. Others complete their degrees by attending night classes on a part-time basis. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to earn your degree at Generations College.
Financial Aid and Scholarships for 2-Year Programs
Financial aid options for students pursuing a 2-year degree include federal, state and local scholarships, grants and loan programs. Federal aid is primarily accessed through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), which determines eligibility for Pell Grants, federal loans and work-study opportunities. State and local scholarships and grants vary by location but can often be found through community foundations and state-run programs.
To apply, start by completing the FAFSA, then research and apply for additional scholarships specific to your field of study or region. Generations College financial aid counselors are available to guide you through the entire process, helping you navigate forms, identify available aid and maximize your funding opportunities to ensure you receive the support you need.
Online vs. On-Campus Options
Online degrees offer greater flexibility, allowing students to balance continuing education with work and personal commitments. They often come with lower costs due to reduced overhead, but the learning environment can be less interactive. In contrast, on-campus programs provide a structured setting with face-to-face interactions, fostering a more collaborative learning experience, though they may be less flexible and more expensive. Generations College offers both online and in-person learning options, catering to various needs. When choosing between the two, consider your personal learning style, career goals and life commitments – online learning may be ideal for self-motivated individuals, while on-campus might benefit those seeking more direct interaction and a traditional educational experience.
Career Advancement Through 2-Year Programs
Two-year degree programs play a crucial role in equipping students with marketable skills and knowledge directly aligned with workforce demands. These programs focus on practical training in your chosen field to ensure that you are job-ready upon graduation. Generations College enhances this with robust job placement services, offering career counseling, resume workshops and interview preparation. We incorporate real-world experience into our curriculums and help you foster strong industry connections, allowing you to build professional networks. This comprehensive support helps you transition seamlessly from education to employment, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.
Success Stories: Graduates from Chicago's 2-Year Programs
At Generations College, we take pride in the success stories of our graduates who have transformed their careers through a 2-year degree program in Chicago. Many have secured promotions, switched to fulfilling new careers, or even pursued further education. These stories highlight the transformative power of a focused, practical education in shaping not only career trajectories but also personal growth and long-term success.
“…My studies were that of Paralegal Science; a twenty four month program that is approved by the ABA. My first semester I didn’t know if this was where I should be, but after receiving support from the faculty and my colleagues, I knew I had made a great decision. I joined a couple of clubs, like Paralegal and Ambassador, and accepted the invitation to become a Phi Theta Kappa member. My learning experience at Generations was so enlightening and fulfilling. My last semester I decided to take on an internship with a real estate attorney, which was a great experience for me to get warmed up for a career as a Paralegal. I learned my Paralegal curriculum and how to have better discipline in my life. I finished my courses in eighteen months and came out with a GPA of 3.94 on December 13, 2017. Two months later, I have job offers lined up to choose from. I am very proud of my achievements at this college. Generations College was a great choice for me!”
–Alice Bishop, Paralegal Studies
Click here to learn more and read testimonials from past students about their experience as well as find out where they are now.
Applying to Generations College
Generations College offers a unique opportunity to earn a 2-year degree that is both affordable and career-focused, preparing students for immediate success in the workforce or further education. With a diverse educational landscape in Chicago, students benefit from access to a supportive community, experienced faculty and strong industry connections that foster real-world learning and career readiness.
Whether you’re looking to enter a high-demand field, advance your current career, or continue your education, Generations College provides the tools and guidance to help you succeed. Apply now and take the first step toward a brighter future!