The Rockford Story

The Rockford Story

Career-Ready Education Rooted in More
Than 160 Years of Experience

A Legacy of Hands-On Training and Workforce Success

Since 1862, Rockford Career College has helped students gain the real-world skills they need to succeed in the workforce. Founded by two forward-thinking entrepreneurs during the Civil War, our college began by teaching essential bookkeeping and secretarial skills to support the growth of Rockford’s local businesses.

More than 160 years later, that mission continues—only now with 20+ hands-on programs in Animal Sciences, Business & Legal, Healthcare, Nursing, Cannabis, and Skilled Trades. We design our curriculum around employer needs, ensuring that the skills you learn are the skills companies are hiring for.

At Rockford Career College, your success is our goal. Students benefit from small class sizes, one-on-one support, and experienced instructors who’ve worked in the fields they teach. From the first day of class to your final externship with a local employer, you’ll gain the confidence and career-ready training to take the next step forward.

We offer:

  • Free tutoring and academic support

  • Financial aid assistance for those who qualify

  • Dedicated career services to help you land your first job

  • Flexible online and in-person options

  • A community that cares about your future

Whether you’re just starting out, making a career change, or building on existing skills, we’re here to help you move forward—quickly and confidently.

Let’s get to work.

rockford Story