Healthcare Education Programs at Lake Area Technical Institute
Lake Area Technical Institute (LATI) in Watertown, South Dakota, offers a diverse array of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for in-demand careers in the medical field. Below is an overview of the key healthcare education programs available at LATI:
Registered Nursing (RN)
Program Overview
The Registered Nursing (RN) program at LATI provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become licensed registered nurses. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering essential areas such as anatomy, physiology, patient care, and pharmacology.
Key Features
- Duration: Typically 5 semesters including summer terms
- Clinical Experience: Hands-on training at local healthcare facilities
- Licensing: Prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN exam
- Advanced Placement Option: Available for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who want to become RNs
Practical Nursing (LPN)
Program Overview
The Practical Nursing (LPN) program is designed to equip students with the practical skills needed to provide basic nursing care. This program is a stepping stone for those who wish to advance to RN status in the future.
Key Features
- Duration: Approximately 11 months
- Clinical Experience: Real-world experience through clinical rotations in various healthcare settings
- Licensing: Prepares students to take the NCLEX-PN exam
Medical Laboratory Technician
Program Overview
The Medical Laboratory Technician program offers a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory training. This program teaches students to perform a variety of tests that assist physicians in diagnosing and treating diseases.
Key Features
- Duration: Typically 2 years
- Clinical Externships: Opportunities to work in actual laboratory settings
- Certification: Prepares students for certification by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
Medical Assisting
Program Overview
The Medical Assisting program at LATI trains students to perform both administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings. This program aims to produce versatile professionals capable of supporting physicians and healthcare teams.
Key Features
- Duration: 16 to 18 months
- Hands-On Training: Includes internships at medical offices
- Certification: Prepares students for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam
Physical Therapist Assistant
Program Overview
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program educates students on how to assist physical therapists in providing treatments that improve patient mobility and reduce pain.
Key Features
- Duration: Traditional 2-year program
- Clinical Practicum: Extensive clinical practicums to gain practical experience
- Licensing: Prepares students to take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs
Dental Assisting
Program Overview
The Dental Assisting program focuses on educating students in both the clinical and administrative aspects of dental care. It prepares students for roles in dental offices, performing tasks ranging from patient care to office management.
Key Features
- Duration: 16 months
- Clinical Experience: Includes externships in dental offices to provide hands-on experience
- Certification: Prepares students for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) certification exam
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Program Overview
The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program teaches students how to assist occupational therapists in helping patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.
Key Features
- Duration: 2 years
- Fieldwork: Students participate in fieldwork experiences to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings
- Licensing: Prepares students for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam
Get Started Today
With a variety of well-rounded healthcare programs, Lake Area Technical Institute offers extensive opportunities for students aiming to enter the healthcare field. Prospective students can visit the LATI website or contact the admissions office directly to learn more about admission requirements, financial aid options, and program specifics. Start your journey towards a rewarding healthcare career today!