Healthcare Education Programs at Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon, IA
Northwest Iowa Community College (NCC) in Sheldon, IA, offers a range of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for various roles within the medical field. Below, we outline the key programs available, along with pertinent details about each.
Nursing Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
NCC’s Associate Degree in Nursing program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful nursing career. The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experiences. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses (RNs).
Practical Nursing (PN)
This program focuses on training students to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). It covers a wide array of nursing responsibilities and typically includes coursework in medical terminology, human anatomy and physiology, and practical nursing skills. Clinical experiences are also a core component of the curriculum.
Nursing Assistant
The Nursing Assistant program at NCC is designed for those looking to enter the healthcare field quickly. This short-term program prepares students to assist patients with activities of daily living, monitor vital signs, and perform basic care under the supervision of a nurse.
Medical Laboratory Technology
Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)
This program prepares students for a career as a Medical Laboratory Technician. The curriculum includes studies in clinical chemistry, microbiology, hematology, and immunohematology. Hands-on training in laboratory settings provides practical experience. Graduates are eligible to take the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification exam.
Radiologic Technology
Radiologic Technology
The Radiologic Technology program at NCC trains students to perform diagnostic imaging examinations. The program combines classroom instruction with clinical practice in various radiologic procedures, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) certification exam.
Health Information Technology
Health Information Technology (HIT)
NCC offers an Associate Degree in Health Information Technology, designed for students interested in managing patient health information and medical records. The program includes coursework in healthcare law, medical coding, data analysis, and electronic health records (EHR) systems. Graduates are prepared for certification exams such as the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT).
Emergency Medical Services
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
The EMT program provides foundational training for those aspiring to work in emergency medical services. Topics covered include basic life support, trauma care, and patient assessment. This program prepares students for state and national certification exams.
Paramedic
For advanced emergency medical services training, the Paramedic program builds on EMT skills with additional coursework and clinical practice in advanced life support, pharmacology, and medical emergencies. Graduates can take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Paramedic certification examination.
Medical Coding
Medical Coding Specialist
The Medical Coding Specialist program focuses on training students to assign standardized codes to various medical diagnoses and procedures in accordance with regulatory requirements. Coursework covers anatomy, medical terminology, and coding systems such as ICD-10-CM and CPT.
Get Started Today
Whether you’re looking to start a new career or advance in your current healthcare role, Northwest Iowa Community College offers a variety of programs designed to meet your educational and professional goals. With a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and clinical experiences, students are well-prepared to enter the dynamic field of healthcare. Enroll today and take the first step towards a rewarding career in healthcare. For more information on how to apply, visit the NCC website or contact their admissions office.