Healthcare Education Programs at Gaston College in Belmont, NC
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
The Associate Degree Nursing program at Gaston College is designed to provide the foundational knowledge and skills required to enter the nursing profession as a registered nurse. The program encompasses a blend of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical practice. Courses cover subjects such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, psychology, and various specialty areas in nursing practice.
Program Highlights
- Preparation for the NCLEX-RN
- Clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings
- Emphasis on patient-centered care and clinical reasoning
Practical Nursing (PN)
The Practical Nursing program prepares students to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). This program focuses on the acquisition of practical skills and knowledge necessary for patient care under the supervision of an RN or a physician. Instruction includes coursework in pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, and adult and pediatric nursing.
Program Highlights
- Preparation for the NCLEX-PN
- Clinical experiences in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community settings
- Quick pathway to entering the nursing workforce
Medical Assisting
Gaston College offers a Medical Assisting program aimed at training students for roles in both administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings. This comprehensive program covers a wide range of skills including taking medical histories, assisting with physical exams, performing laboratory tests, and managing office tasks.
Program Highlights
- Certification opportunities upon completion
- Hands-on training in real-world healthcare environments
- Courses in medical office administration, clinical procedures, and medical law and ethics
Emergency Medical Science
For those interested in becoming emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or paramedics, Gaston College offers an Emergency Medical Science program. This program equips students with the skills necessary to provide critical pre-hospital care. The curriculum includes both didactic learning and extensive practical training in emergency medical techniques.
Program Highlights
- Preparation for state and national certification exams
- High-intensity training scenarios
- Opportunities for field internships with local EMS agencies
Health Information Technology
The Health Information Technology program at Gaston College trains students to manage and use patient healthcare information effectively. Students learn about medical coding, health data management, information systems, and regulatory compliance.
Program Highlights
- Preparation for the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification
- Courses in health data systems, coding, and healthcare statistics
- Blended instruction with online and in-person coursework
Pharmacy Technology
The Pharmacy Technology program aims to prepare students for careers as pharmacy technicians. This program covers drug interactions, medication preparation, and pharmaceutical calculations and is designed to meet both state and national certification requirements.
Program Highlights
- Preparation for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam
- Training in community, hospital, and institutional pharmacy settings
- Emphasis on accuracy and safety in medication management
Get Started Today
Each of these programs is crafted to prepare you for a successful career in the healthcare industry. With a commitment to quality education and hands-on experience, Gaston College equips its students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in various healthcare roles. For more information about admissions, financial aid, or to schedule a campus visit, be sure to check out the official Gaston College website or contact their admissions office directly.