Healthcare Education Programs at College of the Desert
College of the Desert (COD), located in Palm Desert, CA, offers a variety of healthcare education programs designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in healthcare professions. Below is an overview of the primary healthcare-related programs available at COD.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
The ADN program at College of the Desert prepares students for a career as Registered Nurses (RNs). This program combines theoretical instruction with clinical practice. Students learn about patient care, nursing procedures, and healthcare systems. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Vocational Nursing (VN)
The Vocational Nursing program prepares students to become Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). The curriculum covers fundamental nursing skills, patient care, and medical terminology. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN, the licensing examination for vocational nurses.
Nursing Assistant
The Nursing Assistant program at COD is a short-term certificate course that provides training in basic nursing skills necessary for providing care in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and home health settings. Graduates are prepared to take the certification exam for Nursing Assistants in California.
Allied Health Programs
Medical Assistant
The Medical Assistant program at COD trains students to perform administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and physicians’ offices. The curriculum includes courses in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and administrative practices.
Pharmacy Technician
The Pharmacy Technician program equips students with the skills required to assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and managing day-to-day operations in a pharmacy. The coursework includes pharmacology, pharmacy law and ethics, and practical lab experiences.
Health Sciences
The Health Sciences program offers a comprehensive foundation for students interested in various health-related fields. This program includes courses in biology, chemistry, and health education, providing a solid groundwork for further specialized studies or entry-level employment in the healthcare sector.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
The EMT program prepares students to provide basic emergency medical care in pre-hospital settings. The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training in the use of emergency medical equipment, patient assessment, and life-saving procedures.
Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)
The PTA program at COD trains students to work under the supervision of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries and illnesses. The coursework includes anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and clinical practicum experiences.
Public Health and Wellness
Public Health Science
The Public Health Science program offers an associate degree designed for students interested in pursuing careers in public health. The curriculum covers epidemiology, community health, environmental health, and health policy, preparing students for transfer to a four-year institution or entry-level roles in public health organizations.
Get Started Today
College of the Desert provides a diverse range of healthcare education programs designed to meet the needs of students aspiring to enter various healthcare fields. With a combination of rigorous academic coursework and practical training, COD is committed to producing competent and compassionate healthcare professionals. For more detailed information or to start the application process, visit the College of the Desert official website.