West Los Angeles College Allied Health Center: Healthcare Education Programs

West Los Angeles College (WLAC) in Culver City, CA offers a range of healthcare education programs through its Allied Health Center, designed to prepare students for careers in various medical and health-related fields. Here’s an in-depth look at the programs available:

Dental Hygiene Program

The Dental Hygiene program at WLAC is highly regarded and provides students with the knowledge and clinical experience required to excel as dental hygienists. The curriculum covers areas such as oral health education, therapeutic services, and support for public health policies.

Key Features:

• Degree Offered: Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene
• Program Length: 2 years (4 semesters) plus one summer session
• Clinical Experience: Hands-on training in on-site dental hygiene clinics
• Certifications: Graduates are eligible to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, as well as state or regional examinations for licensure.

Nursing Program

WLAC offers a Nursing program that equips students with the essential skills needed in the nursing profession. The program emphasizes both theoretical instruction and practical hands-on experiences in healthcare settings.

Key Features:

• Degree Offered: Associate of Science in Nursing (ADN)
• Program Length: Typically 2 years
• Clinical Experience: Includes rotations through various medical facilities to provide real-world experience
• Certifications: Graduates can sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed Registered Nurses.

Pharmacy Technician Program

The Pharmacy Technician program prepares students for roles in various pharmaceutical settings including retail, hospitals, and clinics. The curriculum focuses on pharmacology, medication preparation, and pharmacy operations.

Key Features:

• Certificate Offered: Certificate of Achievement in Pharmacy Technician
• Program Length: Approximately 1 year
• Externship: Includes an externship where students gain practical experience
• Certifications: Students are prepared to take certification exams such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).

Medical Assisting Program

The Medical Assisting program at WLAC trains students to handle both administrative and clinical tasks required in medical offices and clinics. The curriculum includes courses in medical terminology, patient care, and office management.

Key Features:

• Certificate Offered: Certificate of Achievement in Medical Assisting
• Program Length: Approximately 1 year
• Internship: Includes an internship component for hands-on experience
• Certifications: Prepares students for certifications such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam.

Radiologic Technology Program

WLAC’s Radiologic Technology program prepares students for careers as radiologic technologists, who perform diagnostic imaging examinations. The program combines classroom study with clinical practice in affiliated hospitals and clinics.

Key Features:

• Degree Offered: Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology
• Program Length: 2 years once prerequisites are completed
• Clinical Experience: Extensive training in real healthcare environments
• Certifications: Graduates are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam.

Get Started Today

West Los Angeles College’s Allied Health Center offers comprehensive programs that equip students with the knowledge, skills, and certifications needed to succeed in various healthcare professions. With a commitment to high-quality education and hands-on experience, WLAC stands as a robust stepping stone for those aspiring to join the healthcare workforce.

Embarking on a career in healthcare is just an application away. For more detailed information on specific programs, admissions requirements, and deadlines, visit the WLAC Allied Health Center website.