About Kishwaukee College

Celebrating 40 Years

Kishwaukee College began forty years ago on 120 acres of rich farmland and has grown into a dynamic campus that promotes lifelong learning for nearly 11,000 students each academic year—students for whom Kish is a stepping stone to a university education, a firm foundation for an occupation, an answer to realigning real life with opportunity, and an enrichment of self.

We at Kishwaukee College believe in the power of education to inspire people to strive for and reach the pinnacle of their potential. We draw our strength and our power from the diversity of the students who enter our doors with dreams and hopes and leave with firm goals and brighter futures.

Kishwaukee College offers transfer degrees that are the highest quality, affordable, and allow all students an access to a university education. In addition, we have over 60 certificate and degree options for students who want to prepare for a career directly after graduating from Kishwaukee College. We also have a wide array of special programs designed to assist community members in whatever stage of life or career they find themselves: wanting to upgrade current job skills, receive the training needed to change career, earn a GED or learn English.

Forty years later, the farmland is still a rich soil. Only now, what grows here are the lives and dreams of the students who are part of Kishwaukee College.

Mission

At Kishwaukee College, we are passionate about enhancing lives and fulfilling dreams. We provide excellent, innovative, and affordable education in a welcoming environment to learners who can benefit from diverse programs and services.

Vision

Kishwaukee College will be the driving force behind turning student aspirations and community potential into enduring success.

Quick Facts About Kishwaukee College

Kishwaukee College is a comprehensive, two-year college offering five transfer degrees and 64 occupational degrees and certificates. The main campus is located in a rural setting six miles west of Northern Illinois University.

• District number: 523
• Founded in 1968
• Number of students: 10,100
• Median student age (credit): 23
• Median student age (non-credit): 43
• Class size range: 10-40
• Total faculty: 229
• Total staff: 186
• Facilities: 500,000 square feet
• Campus size: 120 acres
• District population: 100,000

Accreditation

Kishwaukee College is fully accredited by the North Central Association and belongs to the American Association of Community Colleges. It is one of 49 public community colleges in the state of Illinois.

The College's most recent accreditation self-study is available online.