Harper College

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Banking & Finance - AAS Degree and Certificate Program

CNC Programs - AAS and CNC Operator I & II Certificates

General Insurance - AAS Degree

Industrial Maintenance Mechanic - AAS Degree

Manufacturing Production Certificate

Mechatronics Technician - AAS Degree

Marketing & Sales - Customer Success and Sales Certificate

  • The CNC Precision Machining, Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, Mechatronics Technician, and Welding Technology apprenticeship programs are 3 years in length, with students attending college during the fall and spring semesters.
  • The Banking & Finance, General Insurance, Supply Chain Management/Logistics, and IT Generalist apprenticeship programs are 2 years in length, with students attending college during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
  • Our certificate programs range from 10 to 18 months, including:
    • CNC Operator I & II
    • Finance Certificate (online program)

There is no cost for students accepted into the apprenticeship program. Employers will cover all costs and the student should be able to complete the program with no debt.

Yes, you will be paid a salary. Also, depending on the company, you may be eligible for company benefits such as health care and vacation. Finally, as part of an apprenticeship program, students earn a wage increase (at least annually) as their skills and knowledge develop.

The process of applying for the Harper Apprenticeship Program is easy: follow the steps on this Become an Apprentice page. Visit Harper’s website and apply, take the necessary Harper placement tests (or submit transcripts for previous college credit in math and English), talk with an apprentice coach, create your resume and interview with available employers. Companies my have additional hiring steps.

No, the apprenticeship programs are open to all ages and backgrounds. Students can be career changers, veterans, unemployed, under-employed, or recent high school or GED graduates. Companies are also welcome to bring their own employees into the program to advance a valuable employee’s career path.

The program is open to anyone 18 years or older at the time classes begin.

You must be citizen or permanent resident of the United States.

If your company can benefit from apprenticeship, Harper can work with your employer to determine which program is right for you. For more information, contact the Harper Apprenticeship Program at 847.925.6630 or apprenticeships@harpercollege.edu.

Students do not need to live in Harper’s district to participate, but they are responsible for their own travel and accommodations while attending the program.

Contact the Harper Apprenticeship Program at 847.925.6630 or apprenticeships@harpercollege.edu.

Last Updated: 3/31/26