Accelerated Degree - Southwestern Illinois College

Computer Information Systems
Marketing & Graphic Communications

Thank you for your interest in the Accelerated Degree Program at Southwestern Illinois College. This program offers an excellent opportunity for individuals who have already earned an associate’s degree or higher to complete their degree in a streamlined and flexible manner. You will have the chance to complete your degree by taking only 27 credit hours (nine courses), with the option to select courses that align with your personal and professional goals.

The five degree options available are:

  • Computer Information Systems with Emphasis in Web Development
  • Computer Information Systems with Emphasis in Software Development
  • Computer Information Systems with Emphasis in Web Design
  • Computer Information Systems with Emphasis in IT Service & Support
  • Marketing & Graphic Communications

If you meet the eligibility criteria, please follow the steps outlined below to proceed:

1. Submit Your Transcripts and Apply

[CLICK HERE FOR STEPS IN ENROLLMENT]

Send your transcripts to the Enrollment Office and complete the application for the program. Once accepted, you will receive a student ID and be ready to complete the Accelerated Degree Form.

2. Complete the Accelerated Degree Form

[CLICK HERE FOR ACCELERATED DEGREE FORM]

On this form, you will need to select at least nine courses (27 credit hours) from the options listed. You may choose additional courses if desired. Please note that you can make changes to your course selection after the first semester by completing and submitting an updated form.

3. Review Course Availability

Please refer to [THIS COURSE LIST] for details on course offerings, schedules, and platforms (some courses are only available once a year). Be aware that certain courses may have prerequisites—ensure that these are included in your form. For further information on prerequisites, consult the SWIC Catalog.

4. Course Recommendations

If you need assistance in selecting courses that align with your goals, I am happy to provide guidance. Below are some suggested course plans for each area of focus:

  • Marketing & Graphic Communications: MKT 126, MKT 226, MKT 227, MKT 228, CIS 171, CIS 172, CIS 257, CIS 174, CIS 230
  • Web Design: CIS 171, CIS 172, CIS 257, CIS 174, CIS 176, CIS 177, CIS 180, CIS 277, CIS 187
  • Web Development: CIS 180, CIS 187, CIS 256, CIS 274, CIS 275, CIS 177, CIS 212, CIS 277, CIS 287
  • Software Development: CIS 165, CIS 180, CIS 195, CIS 246, CIS 252, CIS 262, CIS 263, CIS 264, CIS 275 (Note 4 semesters to complete CIS180–CIS 252 — CIS 262 — CIS 263 and 264)
  • IT Services & Support: CIS 185, OAT 156, OAT 171, OAT 175, OAT 180, OAT 280, NETW 101, NETW 188, NETW 271

5. Submit the Completed Form

Once you have completed the form, please email it to me at nicolyn.hensley@swic.edu. After I review and sign it, it will be forwarded to the Dean and Chief Academic Officer for their signatures before being submitted to the Enrollment Office for processing.

6. Confirmation of Enrollment

Once your degree plan has been processed, it will be entered into your eSTORM account. Please check your account within a couple of weeks to confirm that the degree plan has been added. If you do not see the update, please contact me.

7. Additional Questions

Should you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to reach out to me directly. I can be reached at:

Email: nicolyn.hensley@swic.edu
Phone: 618-222-5382
Office: IS 2108