Illinois High School Diploma (IHSD) classes get you career and college ready. These
free pre-college classes will help you pass the IHSD exams, such as the GED®. Passing
the IHSD exams can help you get a new job, a promotion, or even qualify for job training.
An IHSD is the first step in pursuing a certificate or degree at a college. Earning
your IHSD can be an important step in building self-esteem and a sense of pride and
accomplishment.
In our noncredit, IHSD classes, you will:
Study subjects such as reading, writing, social studies, science, and math, as well
as the U.S. and Illinois constitutions.
Improve your basic skills in many disciplines.
Focus on the practical application of knowledge to support your total development.
Receive individualized instruction, cooperative learning and computer-assisted classes
to enhance your learning experience.
Prepare to take an Illinois High School Diploma exam such as the GED®.
Program Details
Classes are hosted on campus and throughout the community.
All classes are funded through federal and state grants and are free.
Basic skills classes support literacy development in various subjects and life skills
such as securing employment, understanding community resources, and becoming an educated
consumer.
We host a special U.S. Citizenship class that overviews the citizenship process to
help people pass the U.S. Citizenship test.
The Aspen Institute named Kishwaukee College as one of the 200 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges. The 200 colleges were selected based on their student outcomes data, including retention, completion, transfer and bachelor’s degree attainment rates. Started in 2010, this is the ninth cycle of the Aspen Prize.
Kishwaukee College will offer five Short-Term programs during the Spring 2026 semester. Kish Short-Term programs provide students with the expertise needed to meet local workforce demands. The programs range from 11-15 weeks, allowing students to start a career immediately or build on skills with additional training.