Enhance your learning experience at Oakton by taking part in a Special Program. These transformative concentrations and opportunities provide specialized instruction in a given area. They are reflective of Oakton’s social diversity, commitment to equity, natural environment, and forward-thinking priorities.
For students who are interested in customizing their own degree to meet specific career needs, or who would like to advance at their job by using their courses to complete a degree that does not fit in the traditional associate degrees, or for students in special programs that align with one of our transfer partners, you may want to consider an Associate in General Studies (A.G.S.) degree. Learn more about the requirements of an A.G.S. degree by visiting our catalog or by checking out the following programs which feature them, such as Cannabis Transportation, Logistics and Supply Chain Management via Northern Michigan University and the Paraprofessional Educator Pathway at Oakton.
Unique programs with specialized outcomes
Advanced Academic Opportunities
Global Studies
Connect with cultures beyond your backyard in Global Studies. With 4-year partnerships, study abroad trips, and an International Education Week, this award-winning program introduces you to new people and ways of thinking about a globalized world.
Great Books
Enjoy smaller class sizes and deep discussions of Western and Non-Western classic texts in English, History, Humanities, and Philosophy courses designated as Great Books.
Honors
Honors students are invited to participate in Phi Theta Kappa, an international honorary fraternity offering scholarships and additional enrichment activities. This also unlocks scholarship opportunities.
Study Abroad
Explore Oakton’s Study Abroad programs and our partnership with the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP) to send students to over a dozen countries across Asia, Europe and the Americas.
Theater
Begin your career as a performer, producer, or behind the scenes in Oakton’s 18-credit hour Theater concentration. There are a number of ways to get experience from the start of your studies.
Writing Intensive Concentration (WIC)
Refine your communication with the 12-credit hour writing concentration. WIC-designated courses span a variety of academic disciplines.
Studies in Diversity, Equity, Belonging, and Inclusion
Environmental Studies
Explore the relationships between humanity and the natural world with a career in Environmental Studies. Cultivate a critical appreciation for sustainability in this 16-hour concentration.
Jewish Studies
Examine Judaism's historical, political, cultural, and social aspects in this 18-credit-hour concentration. Join the dialogue through coursework, civic engagement, public lectures, and special events.
Peace and Social Justice Studies
Envision a just society free from oppression. This multi-disciplinary concentration explores past and ongoing movements, with an emphasis on diversity and theories of action.
Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Foster an understanding of diverse women’s contributions to history and human rights. This 15-credit hour concentration applies an intersectional lens.
Volunteering and Service Learning
Connect coursework to real issues, complete volunteer work, advocate and reflect on your experiences by participating in Oakton’s Volunteering and Service Learning.
Contact Academics
Visit the Special Program pages above to contact the advisors of each group.
Des Plaines
academics@oakton.edu
847.635.1700
Room 1860
Skokie
academics@oakton.edu
847.635.1700
Room A100
Hours
Monday - Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Closed on weekends*
*Oakton is closed Friday through Sunday during the summer
