Healthcare Education Programs at Mountain Empire Community College
Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) in Big Stone Gap, VA, offers a variety of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for meaningful and in-demand careers in the healthcare sector. The programs incorporate hands-on training, theoretical education, and the skills necessary to succeed in diverse health-related environments. Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of the healthcare education programs available at MECC.
Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS-Nursing)
The AAS in Nursing program at MECC is a comprehensive program that prepares students to become registered nurses (RNs). The curriculum includes a balanced blend of classroom instruction, clinical experience, and lab work. The primary focus is on patient care, nursing fundamentals, medical and surgical nursing, mental health, and other key areas of nursing practice. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed RNs.
Key Features:
- Program Length: Typically two years (full-time)
- Coursework: Anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing ethics, and more
- Clinical Experience: Hands-on training in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings
Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate
The Practical Nursing program provides students with a certificate that enables them to work as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). The program emphasizes practical skills, patient care, and the basics of nursing theory and pharmacology. Graduates of this program are qualified to take the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure.
Key Features:
- Program Length: Approximately one year
- Coursework: Fundamentals of practical nursing, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric and obstetric nursing, and more
- Clinical Experience: Direct patient care practice in various healthcare facilities
Nurse Aide (CNA) Certificate
The Nurse Aide program trains students to become Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs), providing the foundational skills necessary for direct patient care roles. This program is ideal for those seeking entry-level positions in healthcare quickly, as it is shorter in duration compared to other nursing programs.
Key Features:
- Program Length: Several weeks to a few months
- Coursework: Basic patient care, infection control, safety procedures, and communication skills
- Clinical Experience: Supervised practical training in healthcare facilities
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) – Paramedic Certificate
MECC offers an EMS program with a focus on paramedic training. This program is designed for individuals aspiring to become paramedics, providing essential knowledge and skills, including advanced life support techniques, trauma care, and emergency response.
Key Features:
- Program Length: Varies, typically around two years for certification
- Coursework: Emergency medical procedures, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology, trauma management, and more
- Clinical Experience: Field internships with local EMS providers and hospitals
Health Information Management (HIM) Associate Degree
The HIM program at MECC prepares students for careers in managing patient health information and medical records. This interdisciplinary program combines health science, IT, and business management components to ensure students are well-equipped for the healthcare industry’s administrative and technological demands.
Key Features:
- Program Length: Typically two years
- Coursework: Medical coding, healthcare law and ethics, health data standards, electronic medical records management, and more
- Practicum Experience: Opportunities for hands-on experience in healthcare settings
Get Started Today
Mountain Empire Community College offers a range of healthcare education programs that cater to various interests and career objectives within the healthcare field. Each program aims to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary for success in their chosen paths. Whether you’re aiming to become a registered nurse, a practical nurse, a nurse aide, a paramedic, or a health information manager, MECC has programs designed to meet your needs.
To learn more about these programs and how to apply, visit the Mountain Empire Community College website or contact the admissions office directly. Start your journey toward a fulfilling healthcare career today!