Healthcare Education Programs at Southwest Virginia Community College
Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) in Richlands, VA, offers a variety of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in the health and medical fields. These programs range from certificates to associate degrees and are tailored to meet the needs of both traditional students and working professionals. Below are the primary healthcare education programs available at SWCC.
Nursing Programs
Registered Nursing (RN) Program
The Registered Nursing program at SWCC culminates in an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. The curriculum covers a comprehensive range of nursing topics, including medical-surgical nursing, maternal and child health, and mental health nursing. Students are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN examination to become licensed registered nurses.
Practical Nursing (PN) Program
The Practical Nursing program offers a certificate and typically takes about one year to complete. The program focuses on foundational nursing skills and patient care. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN).
LPN to RN Bridge Program
This program is designed for Licensed Practical Nurses who wish to advance their careers by becoming Registered Nurses. The program builds upon the existing knowledge and skills of LPNs and leads to an AAS degree in Nursing.
Medical Assisting
Medical Assisting Certificate
The Medical Assisting program prepares students for entry-level positions in medical offices, clinics, and other healthcare settings. The curriculum includes courses on medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, administrative office procedures, and clinical practice. Graduates receive a certificate and can pursue certification through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Program
The EMT program provides the foundational knowledge and skills required for pre-hospital care. Students become proficient in emergency response techniques and are prepared to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification exam.
Advanced EMT (AEMT) and Paramedic Programs
SWCC offers advanced training for EMTs who wish to further their skills and careers. The AEMT and Paramedic programs provide more in-depth instruction in advanced lifesaving techniques and patient care. These programs prepare students for higher levels of NREMT certification.
Respiratory Therapy
Respiratory Therapy Associate Degree Program
The Respiratory Therapy program awards an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and prepares students to become competent respiratory therapists. The curriculum includes courses on respiratory care practices, pharmacology, and patient assessment. Successful graduates are eligible to take the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) examinations.
Allied Health
Health Information Management (HIM) Program
The Health Information Management program prepares students for roles in managing patient health information and medical records. The program offers a combination of coursework in medical coding, health data management, and healthcare compliance. Graduates can pursue certification through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
Phlebotomy Certificate
The Phlebotomy program trains students in blood collection techniques, safety protocols, and specimen handling. The completion of the program results in a certificate, and graduates are prepared for certification exams, such as those offered by the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA).
Get Started Today
Southwest Virginia Community College provides comprehensive healthcare education programs that equip students with the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to excel in the healthcare industry. Whether you’re just beginning your healthcare career or looking to advance your skills, SWCC has a program tailored to meet your needs. Visit the SWCC website or contact the admissions office to learn more about enrollment, program specifics, and start dates. Take the first step towards a rewarding career in healthcare today!