Bachelor of Arts in Labor Studies
The National Labor College (NLC) Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labor Studies is a degree completion program that results in a Bachelor of Arts in Labor Studies. It is designed for working union members and staff. We are working in partnership with the NLC to offer this program in Illinois. As with all BA programs, you will need to complete the equivalent of four years of college or 120 credit hours. These hours can be accomplished through a combination of previous college classes, current college classes, and life experience credit for such things as apprenticeships, military or specialized training.
The program requires that you complete at least 30 hours of Labor Studies classes while enrolled through the NLC. The U of I Labor Education Program will offer one of the five required courses, Educational Planning (see below for description) on campus at different times during the year.
In addition, beginning in January 2008 credit classes offered through LEP will be taught online (see brochure link below and Online Courses page) and listed every semester under the “Online Courses” page. These online classes will be offered on a full semester basis and in a compressed 8-week basis. Credits earned through these online classes will be accepted by the NLC towards the required number for graduation. Students will have to enroll with the NLC and submit all transcripts to them for consideration. If you need electives to complete 120 hours, those can also be taken through us, or through accredited community college.
The NLC was awarded accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education on March 3, 2004.
Educational Planning
This required course is designed to help students identify and clarify their educational goals. By preparing a portfolio, students will be able to identify and categorize prior college-level learning. The process will enable students to earn appropriate college credit as well as identify major course of study. A written, individualized plan will be drafted, along with a personal mission statement. (3 semester credits)