Enrollment in career and technical education programs at Illinois community colleges is up nearly 6% this fall, reaching its highest level in nine years as more students turn to career-focused training and education.
CTE enrollment has increased every year since fall 2022, growing 26.1% over that period. The programs now account for 27.7% of all community college enrollment statewide, with 75,208 students pursuing training designed to prepare them for careers in high-demand industries.
Statewide community college enrollment totaled 271,845 students in fall 2026, a slight 0.7% decrease from fall 2025 following four years of growth. Despite the decline, enrollment remains 0.2% above pre-pandemic levels, reflecting the system’s sustained recovery and the enduring demand for accessible, affordable higher education across Illinois.
Other hands-on instructional areas, like vocational skills training, grew 9.6% from last year. Across the community college system, 4,404 programs were offered. This included 1,173 Associate of Applied Science degrees, 2,957 certificates, and 274 baccalaureate and transfer degrees.
Illinois community colleges continue to expand career-focused opportunities through programs such as Manufacturing Training Academies, electric vehicle training programs, specialties like a truck driver training program in Litchfield and additional grant programs that expand access to high-quality, career-focused training opportunities across Illinois.
Community college students also have access to expanded financial assistance. State funding for community colleges has increased by nearly $63.1 million, or 43% since fiscal year 2019. Monetary Award Program funding has also increased by $320 million, an 80% increase, over the same period. Through a combination of MAP and federal Pell Grant funding, virtually all community college students at or below the median income level can have their tuition and fees fully covered.
As career-focused education continues to grow, Illinois community colleges are helping students gain practical skills through affordable education as they prepare for opportunities in the state’s evolving workforce.
