Healthcare Education Programs at Northern Virginia Community College: Alexandria Campus
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) in Alexandria, VA, offers a diverse range of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for various roles within the healthcare industry. These programs are tailored to meet the growing demands of the healthcare sector and provide students with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed for their chosen careers.
Nursing
NOVA’s School of Nursing offers several pathways for students aspiring to join the nursing profession:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): This program prepares students to become registered nurses (RNs). The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences designed to develop competencies in patient care across various healthcare settings.
LPN to RN Transition Program: Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) looking to advance their careers can enroll in this program to bridge the gap and become registered nurses.
Practical Nursing (PN)
- Certificate Program: This program is designed for students who wish to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). The curriculum focuses on basic nursing skills and foundational knowledge, with clinical rotations and coursework that prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
Medical Laboratory Technology
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Medical Laboratory Technology: The Medical Laboratory Technology program trains students to perform routine laboratory tests that are crucial for the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases. The curriculum includes courses in microbiology, chemistry, hematology, and other essential sciences, alongside practical lab experience.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
NOVA offers comprehensive training for careers in emergency medical services:
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): This entry-level course equips students with the skills necessary to provide basic emergency medical care. It includes classroom instruction, practical labs, and real-world clinical experiences.
Paramedic Program: For those looking to advance in the EMS field, the Paramedic program is an option. It provides in-depth training in advanced life support, including pharmacology, cardiology, and trauma management. Successful completion prepares students to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification exam for paramedics.
Health Information Management (HIM)
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Health Information Management: This program prepares students for roles in managing patient health information and medical records. The curriculum covers medical coding, data analysis, privacy regulations, and health information technologies, blending classroom instruction with internships.
Medical Education Campus Programs
While the Alexandria Campus offers some healthcare programs, others are offered at the dedicated Medical Education Campus (MEC) in Springfield, VA. Programs at MEC include:
- Radiography: This program trains students to become radiologic technologists, capable of performing diagnostic imaging examinations.
- Sonography: Focuses on ultrasound technology and prepares students to become diagnostic medical sonographers.
- Dental Hygiene: Prepares students for a career in dental hygiene, providing them with the skills needed to perform dental cleanings, patient assessments, and other preventive dental care services.
Get Started Today
Pursuing a healthcare education at NOVA’s Alexandria Campus is a step toward a rewarding career in an ever-growing industry. With a range of programs catering to various interests and career goals, students receive comprehensive training and hands-on experience to meet the healthcare sector’s demands. Visit the NOVA website for more information on admission requirements, program specifics, and start dates, and take the first step towards your healthcare career today.