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Rend Lake College

BIG MUDDY RIVER AND/OR
PINCKNEYVILLE CORRECTIONAL CENTERS

Rend Lake College contracts with the Illinois Department of Corrections to provide vocational certificate programs at Big Muddy River Correctional Center and Pinckneyville Correctional Center. The college also offers evening classes that can be used toward graduation requirements for an Associate in Arts Degree.

For additional information about correctional education programs, contact witthoft@rlc.edu.

Automotive

AUTO 1220 - Introduction to the Automotive Service Industry (3)
This course provides an overview of automotive service careers. Safety, tool identification and usage, accurate measurements and the use of manuals are all covered. This course also covers the work attitudes needed to obtain and advance in a job in the automotive field. Job-seeking skills, employer/employee relations and compliance with shop rules and regulations are all stressed. - Lecture 1.5 hours. Lab 3 hours.

AUTO 1221 - Automotive Fundamentals (4)
This course covers tires, batteries and accessories. It provides hands-on experience in performing routine and preventive maintenance procedures such as replacing belts, clamps and hoses, changing/filling oil and other fluids and performing visual under-car and under-hood inspection. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 6 hours.

AUTO 1222 - Basic Automotive Electrical Systems (4)
This course covers basic automotive electrical principles and safety. Battery chemistry and electrical circuitry are covered. Students learn to test and measure voltage, current and resistance, to check the operation of starting and charging systems and to work basic automotive electrical components such as batteries, starters and alternators. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 6 hours.

AUTO 1223 - Basic Auto Steering and Suspension (4)
This course covers the theory, operation and servicing of automotive steering and suspension systems, including struts, control arms, 4-wheel alignment mechanisms and power steering assemblies. Students study steering geometry and learn to check, measure, inspect and replace steering components. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 7 hours.

AUTO 1224 - Basic Automotive Alignment (4)
This course covers alignment theory, measurement and adjustment. Students learn to inspect, test and replace alignment components. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 7 hours.

AUTO 1225 - Basic Automotive Brakes (3)
This course covers the basic brake operation, hydraulics and the principles of friction. Students learn to inspect, test and replace brake components. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 5 hours.

AUTO 1226 - Basic Automotive Drive Trains (3)
This course covers clutch operation, transaxles, drive lines, rear axles and universal and CV joints. Students learn to identify clutch and linkage problems and to make the necessary adjustments. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 5 hours.

AUTO 1227 - Upper Engine Repair (3)
This course covers the inspection and servicing of engine valves, cylinder heads, manifolds, overhead cams and timing mechanisms. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 5 hours.

AUTO 1228 - Lower Engine Repair (3)
This course covers the theory, operation and servicing of lower engine components, including the inspection and repair of engine lubrication systems, screening of blocks, shaft and bearings and performing engine measurement. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 5 hours.

AUTO 1229 - Fuel Management (4)
This course covers the properties of fuel and procedures for diagnosing, repairing and/or adjusting fuel delivery systems. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 7 hours.

AUTO 1230 - Engine Performance (4)
This course covers the theory and operation of engine ignition and emission systems. Comprehensive diagnostic procedures also are covered. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 7 hours.

Commercial Custodial Services

CMCU 1201 - Introduction to Custodial Services (3)
This course covers machine and electrical safety, the detergency process and chemical usage, handling and mixing. Guidelines for working with bloodborne pathogens and for complying with OSHA and EPA regulations are emphasized. Basic employability skills and the growing career opportunities in this field also are covered. - Lecture 3 hours.

CMCU 1202 - General Cleaning Practices (3)
This course covers the people, policies and procedures involved in the cleaning industry. Selection of the proper equipment for each task, waste disposal, surface cleaning, vacuuming and dusting in a variety of commercial and public settings are emphasized, along with safe procedures for dealing with bloodborne pathogens and infectious wastes. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 4 hours.

CMCU 1203 - Hard Floor Care (4)
This course covers the identification of various types of flooring, and the routine and restorative procedures to be used with each type. Experiences are provided with various methods of floor care, including dustmopping, buffing/burnishing, machine scrubbing, stripping and applying finishes. The proper use, care and maintenance of floor care equipment are emphasized throughout the course. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 6 hours.

CMCU 1204 - Carpet and Upholstery Care (4)
This course covers material and fiber identification for various types of carpets and upholstery fabrics, along with the routine and restorative procedures to be used with each type. Students gain experience with various methods of carpet and upholstery care, including shampooing, extraction, bonnet cleaning, dry powder cleaning, spot/stain cleaning and wet/dry foam cleaning. Proper use, care and maintenance of carpet and upholstery equipment also are emphasized. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 6 hours.

Computer Technology

COMT 1220 - Computer Occupational Skills (3)
This course will familiarize the student with the basic computer technology, fundamentals, employability skills, input-output devices, hardware/software components, terms and peripherals. - Lecture .5 hours. Lab 5 hours.

COMT 1221 - Keyboarding (2)
This course is designed to familiarize the student with the computer keyboard. The student will touch type using the alphabetic keyboard and the numeric tabulator pad. Emphasis will be placed upon proper keyboarding techniques, as well as speed and accuracy. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 3 hours.

COMT 1223 - Introduction to Presentation Software (3)
This course is designed to give the student a good background in presentation software applications. Students will become proficient in creating, modifying, adding sound and/or graphics, saving a presentation with textual and visual elements and preparing the presentation for distribution and delivery. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 5 hours.

COMT 1224 - Developing Work Place Skills (4)
This course will emphasize how technology is applied to manage complex tasks in a variety of business applications tailored to the student’s career aspirations.  Lecture .5 hour.  Lab 7.0 hours.

COMT 1230 - Introduction to Operating Systems (3)
This course gives the student an overview of different operating systems and a broad knowledge of how these systems operate. Hands-on experiences will be provided. - Lecture .5 hour. -Lab 7 hours.

COMT 1231 - Word Processing Software Applications (3)
This is a hands-on course to give the student a good background in word processing software applications. The student will become proficient in formatting, editing, printing, working with graphics, merging documents, performing mail merges, using fonts, importing/exporting data and other functions that are possible with word processing software. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 5 hours.

COMT 1232 - Spreadsheet Software Applications (3)
In this course, the student will learn how to set up a spreadsheet, enter data, modify the layout, hyperlink, and print a worksheet or workbook. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 5 hours.

COMT 1233 - Data Base Software Applications (3)
In this course, the student will work with data base software and will learn how to create datafiles, modify structure, create screen displays, import/export data and create and print reports- Lecture .5 hour. Lab 5 hours.

COMT 1234 - Computer Logic / Problem Solving (4)
This course provides the beginning programmer with a guide to developing structured program logic. - Lecture 1.5 hours. Lab 3 hours.

COMT 1235 - Introduction to BASIC Programming (4)
This course teaches the student how to write, edit, run and debug programs using Visual Basic program language. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 5 hours.

COMT 1238 - Introduction to Desktop Publishing (3)
This course covers creating and editing a publication; designing newsletters, brochures, business forms and tables; customizing publications with information sets; and creating an e-commerce web site. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 5 hours.

COMT 1239 - Introduction to Web Page Design (3)
This course covers essential HTML skills, including creating, linking and formatting HTML documents.  - Lecture .5 hour.  Lab 5 hours.

Construction Occupations

CSTO 1201 - Introduction to Construction Occupations (4)
This course covers the basic safety principles fundamental to construction, including the correct use of hand and power tools, emergency and first aid procedures and avoiding hazardous conditions. It prepares students to identify, obtain and keep jobs in the construction/maintenance field. Essential employability skills are introduced throughout the program. - Lecture 2 hours. Lab 4 hours.

CSTO 1202 - Basic Masonry (4)
This course prepares students to identify masonry tools, materials and procedures, operate power equipment and estimate materials used in masonry. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 7 hours.

CSTO 1203 - Basic Carpentry I (4)
The first of two carpentry courses prepares the student to perform basic rough carpentry techniques, from preparing for the foundation through construction of the ridge board. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 7 hours.

CSTO 1204 - Basic Carpentry II (4)
This course is a continuation of CSTO 1203 and builds on skills the student obtained in Carpentry I. The student will obtain the finishing skills required for the trade. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 7 hours.

CSTO 1205 - Basic Plumbing (4)
This course prepares the student to design, install, test and maintain supply and waste lines and various plumbing components. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 7 hours.

CSTO 1206 - Residential Wiring (4)
This course prepares the student to design, install, test and maintain basic electrical systems. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 7 hours.

CSTO 1207 - Painting and Finishing (3)
This course prepares the student to estimate materials and to prepare surface for papering, painting and finishing. - Lecture 1 hours. Lab 4 hours.

CSTO 1209 - Blueprint Reading (4)
This course teaches students to read and interpret construction symbols and blueprints and to read and interpret appropriate building codes. Students will learn how to sketch and dimension rough drawings. - Lecture 2 hours. Lab 4 hours.

Food Service

FDSV 1220 - Introduction to Food Service (3)
This course covers the basic work attitudes, characteristics and skills needed to work in the food service industry. Food service terminology, equipment identification and usage, information about types of foods and trends in the food service industry and the development of interpersonal and communication skills are stressed. Work behavior and concepts covered here will be reviewed and reinforced throughout the rest of the program. - Lecture 3 hours.

FDSV 1221 - Sanitation and Safety (3)
This course prepares students to take and pass the Illinois State Sanitation exam. The development of safe and sanitary working habits needed by each food service worker is stressed. - Lecture 3 hours.

FDSV 1222 - Food Preparation Methods (3)
This course provides an introduction to food preparation and covers skills involved in preparing breakfast foods, sandwiches, starch products, eggs and dairy items. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 4 hours.

FDSV 1223 - Advanced Baking (4)
This course covers the fundamental principles of baking and leavening agents. The production of yeasts is also covered. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 6 hours.

FDSV 1224 - Produce Prepartation (3)
This course covers preparation of vegetables and fruits for serving and storage. Salad and dressing preparation and cooking techniques for fruits and vegetables are stressed. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 4 hours.

FDSV 1225 - Meat, Poultry and Fish Preparation (4)
This course teaches the student to identify wholesale and food service cuts of beef, pork, veal and lamb, as well as principles of preparing meats, fish and poultry. - Lecture 2 hours. Lab 4 hours.

FDSV 1226 - Stock, Soup and Sauce Preparation (3)
This course teaches students to prepare and use stocks, soups and sauces. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 4 hours.

FDSV 1227 - Food Presentation (2)
This course covers the principles of presentation of food, from plating and garnishing through waiting on customers. Various serving styles are covered. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 2 hours.

FDSV 1228 - Careers in Food Service (1)
This course prepares students to seek job opportunities in the food service industry. - Lecture 1 hour.

FDSV 1229 - Baking I (3)
This course provides fundamental principles of baking and leavening agents in baking. The production of baked items such as quick breads, pies, cakes, and cookies is covered.

Horticulture

HOCU 1200 - Introduction to Horticulture (3)
This course will acquaint the student with a basic understanding of plant form and function. It will cover employment opportunities and skills necessary for employment. These skills will be reinforced throughout the remainder of the program. - Lecture 2 hours. Lab 2 hours.

HOCU 1201 - Soils (2)
This course will give the student an overview of soil structure, horizons, textural classifications and chemical properties. It provides a basic knowledge of soil pH, nutrient requirements and water requirements. Concepts for soil analysis and recommendations for tilth improvement, fertility and conservation practices are covered. - Lecture 1.5 hours. Lab 1 hour.

HOCU 1202 - Pest Control (3)
This course includes identification of major pests, their life cycles and the damage they cause. Feasibility and methods of horticultural pest control are covered, along with the proper identification and usage of pesticides. Proper safety procedures are emphasized. At the conclusion of this course, students will take the Illinois Commercial Pesticide Operator Care Test. - Lecture 2 hours. Lab 2 hours.

HOCU 1203 - Greenhouse Operation (4)
An introductory course designed to give students a basic understanding of the maintenance and proper use of greenhouse structures and equipment. Proper safety procedures, growing techniques and management practices used in producing crops are covered. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 6 hours.

HOCU 1204 - Turfgrass Management (3)
This course provides the basic knowledge and skills for a career in turfgrass management, with emphasis on the establishment, renovation and maintenance of turfgrass. Students will identify and examine cultural requirements for major turfgrasses in Illinois. In addition, students will identify insect, weed and disease pests common to the region. - Lecture 2 hours. Lab 2 hours.

HOCU 1205 - Nursery Operations (3)
This course includes principles of woody plant production from planting to salable plants. Cultural procedures for field and container nursery production are introduced, along with approved practices of fertilization, pest control, planting, irrigation, overwintering and harvesting. - Lecture 2 hrs. Lab 2 hour.

HOCU 1206 - Landscape Plant Identification (4)
This course will introduce the students to woody and herbaceous perennials. Students will learn how to identify plants according to leaf, overall shape, size and use. Plants will be grouped by deciduous or evergreen trees, shrubs and ground covers. - Lecture 1 hour. Lab 6 hours.

HOCU 1207 - Landscape Design Installation (4)
This course covers basic principles of landscape design, sketching of the landscape and techniques and materials used in the landscape. It includes basic structures and other non-plant materials used in the landscape and provides a basic knowledge of plant selection, planting procedures and construction materials as presented in the landscape plan. - Lecture .5 hour. Lab 7 hours.

HOCU 1208 - Landscape Plant Maintenance (3)
This course covers principles for maintaining landscapes through proper care, fertilization, irrigation, disease and pest control, pruning and other techniques. - Lecture 2 hours. Lab 2 hours.