Healthcare Education Programs at Iowa Lakes Community College, Emmetsburg, IA
Iowa Lakes Community College in Emmetsburg, IA, is dedicated to providing quality education in various healthcare disciplines. The college offers several programs designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in the healthcare industry. Below is an overview of the healthcare education programs available at Iowa Lakes Community College.
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
The Associate Degree Nursing program at Iowa Lakes Community College is a comprehensive course of study that prepares students to become Registered Nurses (RNs). The curriculum combines classroom instruction with clinical practice, allowing students to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the nursing field. Graduates of this program are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Key Highlights:
- Program Length: Approximately 2 years (including prerequisites)
- Clinical Experience: Hands-on training in various healthcare settings
- Accreditation: Approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing
Practical Nursing (PN)
The Practical Nursing program prepares students to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). The curriculum includes coursework in anatomy and physiology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, pharmacology, and more. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN to obtain licensure as practical nurses.
Key Highlights:
- Program Length: Typically 1 year (including prerequisites)
- Clinical Experience: Practical experience in hospitals and long-term care facilities
- Career Opportunities: Opportunities in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and home health care
Medical Assistant (MA)
The Medical Assistant program at Iowa Lakes Community College trains students to perform administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings. The program covers a variety of topics, including medical terminology, office management, patient care, and basic laboratory procedures. Graduates are prepared for certification and employment in medical offices, clinics, and other healthcare environments.
Key Highlights:
- Program Length: Approximately 1 year
- Certification: Eligibility to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam
- Skills Training: Phlebotomy, EKGs, patient scheduling, and medical billing
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
The EMS program offers training at various levels, including Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Advanced EMT. This program equips students with the knowledge and skills required to provide pre-hospital emergency care. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience in emergency settings.
Key Highlights:
- Program Levels: EMT and Advanced EMT
- Certification: Meets the requirements for state and national certification exams
- Career Opportunities: Work in ambulance services, fire departments, and hospital emergency rooms
Pharmacy Technician
The Pharmacy Technician program prepares students to support pharmacists in providing medication and health care products to patients. The curriculum covers drug classifications, pharmacy calculations, medication preparation, and pharmacy law and ethics. Graduates are ready for certification and employment in retail and institutional pharmacy settings.
Key Highlights:
- Program Length: Typically less than 1 year
- Certification: Eligibility to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)
- Work Settings: Community pharmacies, hospitals, and mail-order pharmacies
Radiologic Technology
The Radiologic Technology program trains students to perform diagnostic imaging examinations. The program combines academic coursework with clinical practice to develop proficiency in radiographic procedures, patient care, and radiation safety. Graduates are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam.
Key Highlights:
- Program Length: Approximately 2 years
- Clinical Experience: Extensive hands-on training in hospital radiology departments
- Accreditation: Accreditation by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
Get Started Today
Iowa Lakes Community College provides a diverse range of healthcare education programs designed to meet the needs of aspiring healthcare professionals. Whether you are interested in nursing, medical assisting, emergency medical services, or another healthcare field, Iowa Lakes Community College offers the programs and support needed to achieve your career goals.
For more information and to apply, prospective students are encouraged to visit the Iowa Lakes Community College website or contact the admissions office. Start your journey towards a fulfilling career in healthcare today!