Business Specialist
Certificate
In just two semesters you can learn a broad-base set of skills and general business knowledge necessary for entry-level employment.
24/7
support in the ICC Academic Support Center
This program allows for a quick accumulatation of skills, especially in the area of spreadsheets, so students can enter the job market and begin working as soon as possible.
Admissions Office
Graduates of this program have job-ready skills and will be ready to join the workforce.
Meet and network with other students interested in developing business skills and leadership by joining the ICC chapter of Phi Beta Lambda (PBL).
Data Management Assistant, Reporting Assistant, Claims Adjustor, Data Operations Coordinator
COMPLETION TIME
12 Months
if Full Time
2 Semesters
30 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$4,650
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2023-24
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
15 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
“Students who complete this certificate will be able to demonstrate knowledge of best busines practices in management and marketing, as well as demonstrate effective communication and technological skills needed in business.”
Adam Saatkamp, Associate Professor – Business, Legal & Information Systems
How Do I Get Into the Business Specialist Program?
You want to start a career in business but you are not ready for the rigors of a bachelor’s degree. This certificate program will make you workforce ready. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 600 scholarships.
- Analytical skills, attention to detail, and organization and leadership skills are beneficial for the program.
- English, math, communications, and public speaking are important to a career in business.
What Can I Expect As a Business Specialist Student?
- Students will learn the fundamental principles of accounting, legal environments, workplace ethics, functions of management, communication skills, spreadsheet software, and how to read financial statements.
- Graduates will be able to pursue entry-level positions with a variety of business enterprises.
- Graduates have found work at Caterpillar, OSF, UnityPoint Health, Pekin Insurance, State Farm, and other major employers.
- Be workforce ready in as little as two semesters.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.
Admissions
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Phone: (309) 694-5200
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Administrative Building
L220C
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Mon-Fri: 8 am – 4:30 pm
Virtual Stretch Hours
Mon-Tue: 4:30 pm – 6pm