Portland Community College Healthcare Education Programs

Portland Community College (PCC) in Portland, OR offers a diverse array of healthcare education programs designed to meet the growing demands of the healthcare industry. Below is a comprehensive list of the healthcare-related programs available at PCC, providing essential details about each program.

Nursing

PCC offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, which prepares students to become Registered Nurses (RNs). The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice in various healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensing examination.

Key Features

• Duration: Typically 2 years
• Curriculum: Includes courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and nursing fundamentals
• Clinical Experience: Local hospitals and healthcare facilities

Dental Hygiene

The Dental Hygiene program at PCC offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. It prepares students to work as dental hygienists and provides essential skills in patient care, teeth cleaning, and oral health education.

Key Features

• Duration: Typically 2 years
• Curriculum: Combines general education with dental hygiene courses
• Clinical Practice: On-campus dental clinic and off-site clinical rotations

Medical Assisting

PCC offers a one-year certificate and a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Medical Assisting. This program trains students in administrative and clinical tasks required in medical offices.

Key Features

• Duration: 1 year for certificate, 2 years for AAS degree
• Curriculum: Includes courses in medical office procedures, patient care, and medical coding
• Internships: Practical experience in local healthcare facilities

Paramedicine

The Paramedicine program provides students with the skills necessary to handle emergency medical situations. Graduates can pursue careers as paramedics.

Key Features

• Duration: 2 years for the AAS degree
• Curriculum: Emergency medical procedures, patient assessment, and critical care
• Clinical Experience: Real-world training in emergency settings

Radiography

The Radiography program at PCC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree, preparing students to work as radiologic technologists, proficient in using imaging equipment to assist in patient diagnosis and treatment.

Key Features

• Duration: 2 years
• Curriculum: Radiographic imaging, patient care, and radiation protection
• Clinical Rotations: Diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals and imaging centers

Ophthalmic Medical Technology

This program trains students to assist ophthalmologists in eye care. The curriculum covers surgical assisting, patient care, and the use of diagnostic equipment.

Key Features

• Duration: 2 years for the AAS degree
• Curriculum: Ophthalmic procedures, patient management, and diagnostic techniques
• Internships: Hands-on training in eye care facilities

Surgical Technology

The Surgical Technology program at PCC equips students with the competencies needed to assist surgeons during procedures. The program culminates in an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Key Features

• Duration: 2 years
• Curriculum: Surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and patient care
• Clinical Experience: Rotations in various surgical environments

Health Information Management

This program educates students on managing patient health information and medical records. Graduates can earn an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Key Features

• Duration: 2 years
• Curriculum: Medical coding, health data management, and privacy regulations
• Practicum: Practical experience in medical record departments

Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

The EMS program offers training at different levels, from Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) to AAS degree in Paramedicine. The program prepares students for rapid response and patient care in emergency situations.

Key Features

• Certifications: EMT, Advanced EMT, and Paramedic
• Curriculum: Pre-hospital emergency care, trauma response, and medical emergencies
• Field Training: Extensive practical experience through ride-alongs and simulations

Get Started Today

Portland Community College provides a robust selection of healthcare programs aimed at preparing students for rewarding careers in various medical fields. Whether you are starting your journey in healthcare or looking to further your education, PCC offers the courses and hands-on experience needed to succeed. To get started, visit the PCC website or contact their admissions office for more information on how to apply.