Carl Sandburg College (CSC) Introduction and Academics

Introduction

Located in Galesburg, Illinois, and founded in the early 1970s, Carl Sandburg College is a two-year institution designed to serve the local community in a variety of ways. The student body consists of a little over 3,500 enrolled, with an average class size of 12. Students here strive towards a number of different goals, and represent a diverse selection of academic pursuits. Some look to earn an associate’s degree, others try to transfer to a four-year institution for a bachelor’s, while still others seek to finally finish their high school equivalency with a General Education Diploma (GED). There are also branches located in Bushnell and Carthage, Illinois.

Information Summary

Ranks 123rd in Illinois and 3506th overall. See the entire top 2,000 colleges and universities list
Overall Score (about)	42.1
Total Cost On-Campus Attendance	$5,426
Admission Success rate	N/A
Student Ratio Students-to-Faculty	22 : 1
Retention (full-time / part-time)	56% / 39%
Enrollment Total (all students)	1,860

Academics

The main goal of the institution is to provide great value to students, both in terms of education and dollars spent, as they move on into the work force or transfer to another four year-college or university.

A variety of programs are offered, including associate’s degrees in the arts and sciences. These programs are specifically designed for students who plan to transfer to another school to complete a bachelor’s degree.

There are also a number of different career education options available for students who are looking to use the education gained here to jump right into the work force.

For those interested in a career in health services, there are a number of degrees and certificates offered. Associate’s degrees can be obtained in dental hygiene, mortuary science, nursing, and radiologic technology, while certificates are available in cosmetology, therapeutic massage, and practical nursing. In the ever-expanding field of diagnostic imaging, exciting courses of study (complete with an advanced certificate after graduation) include computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and nuclear medicine technology.

The University Studies is designed to ready students for a liberal arts education at a four-year institution, with both parties working to make sure that the quality and rigor of education is maintained across the board.

For students looking to complete their high school degree, classes towards a GED are offered. Instruction in Pre-GED is also available for basic skills such as math, reading, and writing. Non-English speaking students can also take ESL classes, as well as preparation for the citizenship exam.

Finally, an online learning component offers the flexibility of 24 hour access, which appeals to many members of the work force trying to further their education. Classes are limited to 20-30 student, which means that individual attention is guaranteed.

Most Popular Fields of Study

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Admissions

Admission here is relatively open. Any high school graduate (or GED holder) is admitted, as well as anyone who is at least 18 years of age. A number of placement tests are administered, including COMPASS (mandatory for all incoming students), as well as pre-admissions tests for specific courses.

To apply, go online and fill create an account with the school. Once that is complete, access to the application will be granted and then fill it out and send it in.

Financial Aid

More than 300 scholarships are awarded through the Carl Sandburg College Foundation each year to incoming students. The minimum scholastic requirement for a scholarship is a 2.0 GPA, though specific grants require a higher grade point average. Applications are due at the beginning of March.

The Financial Aid Office can also help students obtain federal and state aid to help pay for their education. To begin the process, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and then make an appointment with the Financial Aid office to go over options for offsetting the cost of tuition.

Student Financial Aid Details

Ranks 6909th for the average student loan amount.
Secrets to getting the best scholarships and financial aid in Illinois.

Students

All students commute to the college, but there is a surprising variety of on-campus activities and organizations designed to foster community. Over 25 clubs at the school include the Art Club, Computer Club, and the Students Environmental Action Club (SEAC).

There are also a number of campus services available to students, including a well-equipped fitness center (the cost of membership is equal to one credit hour), a bookstore, and free parking on-campus.

Student Enrollment Demographics

Athletics

The Chargers participate in a variety of different sports as part of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). The Chargers participate in men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, cross country, and golf. Athletic grants are available annually, with a minimum of 70% going to students who live within the Arrowhead Conference.

Additional School Information

The school understands the diverse needs of its students, and offers a number of unique programs to meet those challenges, including child care, counseling, and a Learning Resource Center.

Many of the non-degree programs at the college (in addition to the GED course of instruction) are provided free of charge. These include:

Pre-GED

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Literacy Tutoring

Family Literacy

Accreditation

This school has received accreditation from the North Central Association of Colleges.

Carl Sandburg College