Healthcare Education Programs at Clark College, Vancouver, WA
Clark College in Vancouver, WA, offers a variety of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in the medical field. These programs integrate both theoretical and practical learning experiences, ensuring that students gain the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen healthcare professions.
Nursing Program
Clark College provides a comprehensive Nursing program leading to an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). The program is designed to prepare students to become registered nurses (RNs). It includes classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experiences in various healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain licensure.
Key Features
- Duration: Typically 2-3 years
- Clinical Practice: Hands-on training in hospitals and other healthcare facilities
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Dental Hygiene Program
The Dental Hygiene program at Clark College offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. This highly competitive program trains students to become professional dental hygienists. Students learn through a combination of classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical practices that cover patient care, dental sciences, and community health.
Key Features
- Duration: 2 years
- Clinical Training: On-site dental hygiene clinic serving real patients
- Licensure Prep: Prepares students for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and regional clinical exams
Medical Assisting Program
Clark College’s Medical Assisting program culminates in an Associate in Applied Technology (AAT) degree. This program provides the training needed for students to perform administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings like clinics, hospitals, and doctors’ offices.
Key Features
- Duration: 2 years
- Certification: Prepares students for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam
- Internships: Includes practicum experiences in local healthcare settings
Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pharmacy Technician program offers a certificate and an Associate in Applied Technology (AAT) degree. This program is tailored to equip students with the skills needed to assist pharmacists in various environments, from retail pharmacies to hospitals.
Key Features
- Duration: Certificate (1 year), AAT degree (2 years)
- Externships: Practical, on-the-job training in local pharmacies
- Certification: Prepares students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)
Health Informatics Program
Clark College also provides a certificate and an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Health Informatics. This program focuses on the use of information technology to improve healthcare delivery, patient outcomes, and operational efficiency.
Key Features
- Duration: Certificate (1 year), AAS degree (2 years)
- Content: Curriculum includes courses in medical coding, healthcare data management, and system design
- Career Path: Graduates can work as health informatics technicians, data coordinators, or in other IT roles within healthcare
Get Started Today
Clark College’s healthcare programs are designed to meet the needs of aspiring healthcare professionals. With a variety of options, ranging from nursing to health informatics, students are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the healthcare industry. For more information on specific program requirements, enrollment dates, and more, visit the Clark College website or contact the admissions office today. Embark on a fulfilling healthcare career with Clark College!