DEGREE AND CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS
LIBERAL ARTS, LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION Area of Interest at Harper College
FIND MEANING Through a Breadth of Career Path Options In today’s complex world, studying liberal arts, language and communication is more useful than ever. Developing a deep understanding of how we relate to one another and communicate through different forms will help you navigate today’s complex landscape. Today’s employers are searching for recent graduates who have learned how to think, not what to think. Harper College provides transfer-ready programs with courses designed to develop your skills using the latest digital tools. You can save on tuition through programs that provide a smooth transition to your next academic pursuit at a four-year college or university. Explore our liberal arts, language and communication degree and certificate programs.
PERSONAL ATTENTION from dedicated instructors Our student-to-teacher ratio is
19:1 The hands-on language lab and media lab provide foundational knowledge where professional-level resources simulate real-world experiences that help you develop marketable skills.
Harper College offers programs in: y Audio and Visual Arts Technology y English y Humanities
y Linguistics/ TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) y Mass Communication
y Philosophy y Speech Communication y World Languages
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I learned to PRESENT my IDEAS, EXPAND my ABILITY to debate and support causes.
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A liberal arts, language or communication education refers to studies that develop intellectual ability. These types of study can prepare you for many fields in today’s workplace and hone flexible skills useful throughout a career. At Harper, you’ll develop the skills needed to be a better learner, thinker and communicator. The campus culture supports all types of learning including experiential learning opportunities beyond the classroom. The Liberal Arts, Language and Communication curriculum prepares you to easily transfer to complete your bachelor’s degree.
Harper supports the development of strong storytelling skills in multiple modalities.
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degrees outlined in this brochure are transfer options.
ENGLISH English majors have a heightened awareness of the power of language. Degreed professionals have achieved successful careers in teaching, journalism, law, publishing, editing, library science, marketing, fine arts and more. English majors are also known to pursue careers with tech companies and other startup ventures. English and Literature courses at Harper fuel the development of your analytical thinking, with evidenced-based writing and editing skills preparing you for a diverse range of professional fields. These courses build a solid foundation for developing critical thinking and enhance your ability to construct meaning and communicate concepts and ideas. At Harper, you will learn how to write clearly, develop your linguistic skill set and tailor language to fit an audience. The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree prepares you to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete your bachelor’s degree in English or a related major.
HUMANITIES The Humanities explore the efforts of world cultures to define and to redefine what it means to be human. Through the study of art, architecture, literature, music, philosophy, theater and storytelling, Harper Humanities instructors engage students in the process of critiquing and re-imagining traditional, global and evolving notions of creativity, identity and heritage.
You can choose from a variety of courses, including studies in world cultures, Great Ideas of World Civilizations, Women and Creativity, Classical Myth, World Myth and more. The completion of any Harper Humanities course will expand and deepen your understanding of the many ways of being human. The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree prepares you to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete your bachelor’s degree in humanities or a related major.
LINGUISTICS Linguistics is the study of human language. It is important to understand brain processes that take place when people learn language, the differences between learning our native language and learning additional languages, and the strong connection between language and culture. People who study linguistics work in diverse occupations such as interpreter, translator, study abroad coordinator, teacher or researcher. At Harper, you can deepen your knowledge of linguistics by taking courses such as Introduction to Language and Linguistics, Second Language Acquisition, Language and Culture, Language and Health and more. Harper College linguistics courses are certified by the Illinois State Board of Education and count towards the ESL endorsement in the State of Illinois. The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree prepares you to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete your bachelor’s degree in linguistics or a related major.
DEGREE PATHWAY
TRANSFER
The English Department has a partnership with Roosevelt University that offers a clear transfer plan for Roosevelt University’s English major, which includes the option of a creative writing concentration.
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AUDIO/VIDEO ARTS TECHNOLOGY
The Audio/Video Arts Technology Certificate is collaborative program between the Music and Communication Arts departments.
Learn new production skills in this growing field. Many with audio/video technology credentials have high-profile jobs in occupational areas such as music, film, podcasting, marketing, animation, fashion, news, theatre, corporate a/v and more. Production value of a performance, event, podcast or video clip matters.
MASS COMMUNICATION Reaching the masses is easier now than ever. Just as one tweet can break crucial news, one video or story can release information to the public at-large. As the news industry evolves, a strong education in media research, trends, analyzation and laws is critical to having a successful career. At Harper, you’ll expand your knowledge of the history, impact and development of media. Courses cover such topics as journalism, audio and video production, film, photojournalism, public relations and other aspects of the media today in order to teach you how to use tools in your career. As part of the program, students have the opportunity to participate in Harper’s competitive Speech and Debate Team, The Harbinger and Harper’s radio station WHCM-FM 88.3. The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree prepares you to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete your bachelor’s degree in mass communications or a related major.
HARPER COLLEG
Students learn real-life skills by being involved in co-curricular media outlets such as award-winning WHCM FM 88.3 radio, the student newspaper, The Harbinger, Harper Anthology and the literary-art magazine Point of View, which features student illustrations, poems, short stories and more.
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The Audio/Video Arts Technology Certificate is an eclectic and collaborative program between the Music and Communication Arts departments. Through hands-on experience with digital and analog equipment, software as well as unique, comprehensive course work, students will learn theoretical and technical skills to pursue careers in audio engineering, live sound reinforcement, audio tech, A/V and video production. You will have the opportunity to produce impressive portfolio projects by working in Harper’s state-of-the-art Mass Communication Lab. This certificate prepares you for entry-level employment to become an audio/video technician, audio visual (A/V) Specialist or media technician.
PHILOSOPHY If you’ve ever heard someone’s opinion on a topic and were inclined to ask, “Why should I believe that?” then you have begun to philosophize. Some common philosophical questions are: What is the meaning of life? Is there a soul? What is justice? At Harper, you can choose from a variety of Philosophy courses including Critical Thinking, Symbolic Logic, Biomedical Ethics, Religions of the World and more.
E STUDENT ART
& LITERARY MAGAZ
INE
Class activities range from lecture to class discussions, from debates to journals, and to small group work. Philosophy courses are offered in a variety of formats including traditional classroom settings, online and learning communities. None of the courses require a philosophy prerequisite. Outside of class, you can experience a speaker event that occurs twice each year.
For complete program and admission information, visit harpercollege.edu/areas
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree prepares you to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete your bachelor’s degree in philosophy or a related major.
SPEECH COMMUNICATION Speech communication studies focus on how we create meaning through messaging, contexts, channels and media. Skilled communicators have engaging careers in business, media, research, government, teaching, hospitality, logistics training, public relations and more.
Harper College prepares you for a major in speech communications, honing your ability to clearly convey information in your career and other life endeavors. As part of the program, you will have the opportunity to participate in Harper’s competitive Speech and Debate Team, The Harbiger and Harper’s radio station WHCM-FM 88.3. The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree prepares you to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete your bachelor’s degree in communications or a related major.
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Today, so much of STORYTELLING is done through DIGITAL MEDIA.
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— Brian Shelton, assistant professor, mass communications
Harper has flexible space for photo shoots, live radio dramas, talk shows, and small, streamable, acoustic concerts; all of these develop the career-ready skills employers seek.
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I thought, WHY WAIT to transfer to a university to STUDY ABROAD when the offerings at Harper are just as amazing.
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— Maria Vital, Harper student, awarded Congress-Bundestag fellowship on her study in Austria experience
This certificate prepares you for entry-level employment to become an ESL instructor. Certain careers may require a teaching license. Harper’s linguistics classes are approved by the Illinois State Board of Education and can lead to your ESL Endorsement.
WORLD LANGUAGES Discover the world’s rich languages and customs. For those who study languages, doors will open in business, teaching institutions, law, medical fields, the government and many other occupations. At Harper, you can choose from courses including American Sign Language, French, German, Japanese and Spanish. The curriculum is designed to develop your international and cultural awareness through collaborative programs that enhance knowledge of global dynamics, cultural diversity and world issues. Harper provides you with diverse experiences inside and outside the classroom. You can explore study abroad programs and gain an international perspective on the world.
TESOL (TEACHING ENGLISH TO SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES) CERTIFICATE
The Office of International Education’s mission is to serve as a resource to the college and surrounding communities to celebrate the many contributions of the world’s cultures and traditions.
TESOL graduates work in study abroad programs, travel to other countries to teach English or assist immigrants in learning English. There’s great potential in the global economy. Earn your certificate at Harper and gain the necessary skills required to work in both domestic and international contexts.
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree prepares you to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete your bachelor’s degree in linguistics or a related major.
Coursework focuses on theoretical linguistics, language and culture, English as a second language (ESL) teaching methods, language classroom observations and electives in other areas such as humanities, education, anthropology and literature. Students must be eligible for college-level credit courses in order to pursue the TESOL certificate. TESOL certificate courses prepare you to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete a bachelor’s degree.
If you are interested in a liberal arts, language or communication-related subject not listed here, please meet with an academic advisor to discuss your goals.
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SCAN ME to find out more about Liberal arts, Language and Communication programs.
For complete program and admission information, visit harpercollege.edu/areas
DISCOVER A MULTITUDE OF CAREER POSSIBILITIES As a liberal arts, language or communication student, you’ll develop core skills and a range of knowledge that can serve you throughout your work life. With the ability to look at questions from many different perspectives, thinkers will solve problems of the future that we don’t even know are problems today. To offer a slice of the employment outlook, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of media and communication occupations is projected to grow 4 percent from 2018 to 2028. Demand is expected to arise from the need to create, edit, translate and disseminate information through a variety of different platforms. Graduates in this area have gone on to highly successful and rewarding careers.
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POTENTIAL OCCUPATIONS: y Advertising manager
y Journalist
y Audio-visual production specialist
y Linguist
y Corporate communications manager y Editor y Educator/instructor y Film/video editor
y Marketing manager y Public relations specialist y Sales manager y Technical translator y Writer
START AT HARPER. FINISH AT A FOUR-YEAR UNIVERSITY. Harper College is a great place to begin your college education. When you enroll in a Harper College transfer degree program, academic advisors or counselor will help you choose courses that meet the specific requirements of the four-year college or university you are planning to attend.
COMPLETE YOUR BACHELOR’S DEGREE Through the University Center, you can earn a bachelor’s degree from a four-year university in select areas by taking courses offered at Harper’s Palatine campus. The University Center makes earning a university degree more convenient, affordable and accessible.
$152,280
4 YEARS Private University Source: College Board, Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid 2021. * All costs based on tuition and fees only. Does not include expenses such as room, board, or transportation. Does not include financial aid or scholarships.
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QUALITY LEARNING y Flourish in an environment focused on your success. Learn from professionals and educators who’ve become leaders in their field. They will inspire you. y Smaller class sizes allow for more access to your instructors which significantly enhances your educational experience. y Harper offers courses in Social Justice Studies to achieve more equitable societies and to empower the next generation of allies, advocates and change-makers. y Know we’re serious about your education. Harper College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the recognized organization that accredits degreegranting colleges and universities.
JOB SEARCH PREPAREDNESS y The Job Placement Resource Center is committed to help students and alumni become job search ready.
Thousands of students, from those taking their first college
y You may be thinking about how to pay for college. Harper has a staff of financial aid and scholarship experts to help you. y If you live outside of Harper’s district, yet work at an in-district organization, take college credit courses at the reduced in-district rate through the Business EdVantage program.
course to career changers,
choose Harper College. Nearly 11,000
students were awarded more than $26 million in scholarships, grants and tuition waivers through Harper College this year. (FY2021)
PURPOSEFUL CAREER AND DEGREE PROGRAMS
AFFORDABLE COST
Over 50%
SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT y Harper’s Academic Support Centers offer free assistance in a variety of areas. Topics include study skills, time management, reading strategies, math strategies and more. If you need help with a class project or preparing for a test, there is always someone ready to help you succeed.
of Harper
students identify as a
y Whether you are seeking an associate degree, ready-to-work career degree, technical career certification or a program to move you forward to a four-year university, Harper has a class for you. y Begin a bachelor’s here then transfer credits to ultimately complete your degree at a four-year university. Harper’s University Center partnerships can get you there.
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first generation college student.
FLEXIBLE COURSE OPTIONS y Harper has options to make college work with your busy life. Choose from day, evening and online courses, flexible schedules and accelerated programs.
For complete program and admission information, visit harpercollege.edu/areas
CAREER EXPLORATION GUIDANCE y Counselors and advisors will help you with course selection, long-term academic planning, transfer information and developing your career goals. y Accredited assessments, workshops and support will help you develop your career.
HARPER COLLEGE WELCOMES YOU Harper College is made up of a variety of individuals from all walks of life. A diverse, rich culture is present and encouraged. Harper’s academic and cultural experience provides you an exceptional learning environment with the type of education that builds credibility, contributes to a well-rounded character and generates success in the workplace…and your place outside of work.
TOP
5
REASONS
you should consider Harper College:
1. Tuition is a fraction of the cost compared to most four-year universities. 2. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. 3. Smaller class sizes with personal access to dedicated instructors. 4. Classes that fit within your schedule— day, evening or online. 5. Locations near you —home or work. Harper is the College in your community.
Harper College is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status or sexual orientation. 31204 11/22 DRC
Be on Your Way to a FULFILLING CAREER There are other academic areas to explore that serve a variety of occupations and disciplines. Check the Harper website for a free info session event or call 847.925.6700. Harper College offers courses, certificates and degrees in: Art, Design, and Performing Arts
Business, Entrepreneurship and Information Technology
Education
Engineering, Mathematics, and Computer Science
Health Science
Liberal Arts, Languages, and Communication
Manufacturing and Construction
Physical and Life Science
Public Service
Social Science
LEARN MORE We invite you to meet with an Admissions Specialist to discuss your academic interests as well as your personal and professional goals.
Harper College Admissions Outreach CALL EMAIL VISIT
847.925.6700
[email protected] harpercollege.edu/areas