Healthcare Education Programs at Gaston College in Dallas, NC
Gaston College, located in Dallas, North Carolina, offers a diverse array of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing healthcare sector. The programs span from certificate to associate degree levels, catering to various interests and career paths within the healthcare field. Below is an overview of the key healthcare education programs available at Gaston College.
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
The Associate Degree Nursing program prepares students to become Registered Nurses (RNs). This program encompasses comprehensive coursework in nursing principles, pharmacology, and clinical practice across multiple healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure examination.
Key Features:
- Extensive clinical practice opportunities
- Curriculum includes nursing care, patient management, and health assessments
- Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Practical Nursing (PN)
This diploma program is aimed at preparing students to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). It includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN exam.
Key Features:
- Intensive one-year program
- Focuses on fundamental nursing skills, medication administration, and patient care
- Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings
Medical Assisting
The Medical Assisting program offers both a diploma and an Associate of Applied Science degree. This program equips students with clinical and administrative skills necessary for assisting in medical offices, clinics, and other healthcare settings.
Key Features:
- Dual focus on administrative and clinical tasks
- Curriculum includes medical terminology, office management, and patient care techniques
- Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
Surgical Technology
This program prepares students to become competent surgical technologists who work alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses in surgical operations. The Surgical Technology program culminates in an Associate of Applied Science degree.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive training in sterilization, surgical procedures, and patient care
- Clinical experiences in hospital settings
- Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
Emergency Medical Science
The Emergency Medical Science program offers an Associate of Applied Science degree, and it prepares students for careers as paramedics. The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and field internships.
Key Features:
- Coursework in emergency care, anatomy and physiology, and trauma management
- Hands-on training through simulations and clinical internships
- Prepares students for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification
Pharmacy Technology
The Pharmacy Technology program is designed to train students for careers as pharmacy technicians. The program offers both a diploma and an Associate of Applied Science degree, covering essential aspects of pharmaceutical care and pharmacy operations.
Key Features:
- Instruction in pharmacology, medication preparation, and healthcare software
- Clinical externship in a real-world pharmacy setting
- Meets requirements for certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
Phlebotomy
The Phlebotomy program at Gaston College provides students with the skills needed to perform blood draws and other specimen collection procedures. This program prepares students for the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) certification exam.
Key Features:
- Coursework in anatomy, laboratory procedures, and patient interaction
- Extensive hands-on training in both classroom and clinical settings
- Short program duration, often completed in one semester
Get Started Today
Gaston College’s healthcare education programs are well-suited for individuals seeking to embark on or advance their careers in the healthcare industry. With a variety of programs that cater to different interests and career goals, students can find the right fit for their professional aspirations. For more information on program enrollment, prerequisites, and application deadlines, prospective students are encouraged to visit the Gaston College website or contact the admissions office directly.