Healthcare Education Programs at Austin Community College
Austin Community College (ACC) in Austin, TX, offers an array of healthcare education programs designed to cater to the growing demand for healthcare professionals. These programs combine rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared to enter the healthcare workforce. Here is a detailed overview of the healthcare programs available at ACC:
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
ACC’s ADN program prepares students to become Registered Nurses (RNs). The curriculum combines classroom instruction with clinical practice in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and community health organizations. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
Vocational Nursing (VN)
The Vocational Nursing certificate program trains students to become Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). This one-year program emphasizes patient care skills, pharmacology, and practical experience in clinical settings. Graduates can sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam.
LVN to RN Transition
For currently licensed LVNs, this bridge program offers a pathway to becoming an RN. The curriculum builds on existing nursing knowledge and skills, preparing students to meet the requirements for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Allied Health Programs
Radiology
The Radiologic Technology program provides comprehensive training in the use of imaging equipment and radiation safety. Students learn to perform diagnostic imaging procedures and are prepared to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam.
Medical Laboratory Technology
Students in the Medical Laboratory Technology program are trained to perform lab tests that are crucial for diagnosing and treating diseases. The program includes instruction in hematology, microbiology, and clinical chemistry, with a focus on laboratory safety and quality control.
Sonography
The Sonography program at ACC offers specializations in Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Cardiac Sonography. This program trains students to use ultrasound technology for diagnosing various medical conditions and prepares them for relevant certification exams.
Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
The Physical Therapist Assistant program educates students on how to assist Physical Therapists in providing therapy services to patients. The curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, therapeutic exercises, and patient care techniques.
Surgical Technology
ACC’s Surgical Technology program prepares students to work as surgical technologists who assist in surgical operations. The program covers sterile techniques, surgical procedures, and patient care, and graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam for surgical technologists.
Dental Hygiene
This comprehensive program trains students in dental cleaning, radiography, and patient education. Graduates are prepared to take the licensure exam to become Registered Dental Hygienists (RDHs).
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Programs
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
The EMT program provides basic training for emergency medical response, including patient assessment, CPR, and basic life support skills. Graduates are eligible for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification exam.
Paramedic
ACC also offers an advanced Paramedic program for those seeking higher-level skills in emergency medical services. The curriculum covers advanced life support, pharmacology, and specialized patient care, and prepares students for the NREMT Paramedic certification exam.
Health Information Technology
The Health Information Technology program focuses on the management of healthcare data and information systems. Training includes medical coding, electronic health records, and health data analysis. Graduates are eligible for certification exams such as the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT).
Get Started Today
Austin Community College provides a diverse range of healthcare education programs to meet the needs of aspiring healthcare professionals. With its combination of academic rigor and practical experience, ACC ensures that students are well-equipped for success in the healthcare field. To learn more about these programs and start your journey in healthcare, visit the ACC website or contact their admissions office today.