District 214, EIU partnership allows adults to get degrees in Arlington Heights

Suburban residents will be able to complete bachelor's degrees in Arlington Heights as part of a new partnership between Eastern Illinois University and Northwest Suburban High School District 214.

Adult learners enrolled in EIU's General Studies program can soon take evening and weekend classes at the Forest View Educational Center, 2121 S. Goebbert Road, as well as online, under the arrangement with District 214's Community Education program.

District 214 and EIU officials held a ribbon-cutting event Friday at EIU's new office at Forest View. An open house for the university's General Studies program is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22, for prospective students.

The program accepts up to 100 semester hours from regionally accredited universities, including 78 hours from community colleges.

The two institutions have also formed a partnership that will allow District 214 students to earn early college credit from EIU while still in high school. The dual-credit courses, in subjects including college algebra, speech and English composition, will be offered at all District 214 high schools at a reduced rate, officials said.

The district offers some 60 dual-credit courses in partnership with colleges including Arizona State University, Harper College, National Louis University and Northeastern Illinois University. During the 2016-17 school year, students were enrolled in more than 3,000 dual-credit courses.

"We are excited to offer another avenue for students and adults that expands opportunities for success in college and careers," Superintendent David Schuler said in a news release.