Healthcare Education Programs at Onondaga Community College

Onondaga Community College (OCC), located in Syracuse, NY, offers a range of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for various roles within the healthcare sector. Here is an overview of the notable programs available:

Nursing

Associate Degree in Nursing (A.A.S.)

The Associate Degree in Nursing (A.A.S.) program at OCC prepares students to become registered nurses (RNs). Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The program covers coursework in anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, and nursing practice, among others.

• Program Length: Typically 2 years
• Coursework includes: Adult Health Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, Maternal-Newborn Nursing, and Pediatric Nursing
• Clinical Rotations: Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in various healthcare settings

Surgical Technology

Associate Degree in Surgical Technology (A.A.S.)

The Surgical Technology program trains students to become essential members of the surgical team. Surgical technologists assist in surgical operations by preparing operating rooms, arranging equipment, and assisting surgeons during procedures.

• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
• Program Length: Approximately 2 years
• Clinical Practice: Includes participation in real surgical procedures in various healthcare facilities

Health Information Technology

Associate Degree in Health Information Technology (A.A.S.)

The Health Information Technology (HIT) program focuses on preparing students for careers in managing health information systems. This role involves ensuring the quality, accuracy, and security of patient data.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Certification Eligibility: Graduates are eligible to take the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) exam.

Physical Therapist Assistant

Associate Degree in Applied Science: Physical Therapist Assistant (A.A.S.)

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at OCC educates students to support physical therapists in the delivery of physical therapy services. PTAs help patients recover mobility and manage pain.

• Program Length: Typically 2 years
• Clinical Experience: Extensive clinical education in diverse practice settings

Phlebotomy

Certificate in Phlebotomy

This shorter program prepares students to become competent phlebotomists, skilled in drawing blood and preparing it for testing in medical laboratories.

• Program Length: 1 year
• Certification: Prepares students to take the national certification exam in phlebotomy

Respiratory Care

Associate Degree in Applied Science: Respiratory Care (A.A.S.)

The Respiratory Care program trains students to work as respiratory therapists who treat patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Clinical Practice: Multiple clinical experiences throughout the program
• Certification: Graduates are prepared to take the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam

Get Started Today

Onondaga Community College’s healthcare education programs are designed to meet the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals. These programs provide comprehensive education and hands-on experience to ensure graduates are well-prepared for their respective fields. For more information about enrollment and program specifics, visit OCC’s official website or contact their admissions office. Begin your journey in healthcare with OCC today!