Health Science Pathways Booklet

Page 1


W

allace State Community College is

network and articulation agreements with

of excellence, comprehensive educational

University Center on campus allows students

widely recognized for its tradition

offerings, and unique opportunities. Since

1966, Wallace State has provided students

with quality, affordable education. Today, the college enrolls approximately 6,000 students and offers more than 50 programs

of study in academic, health, and technical programs in addition to an unlimited number

of transfer options. Students are guaranteed seamless transfer to the state’s four-year

colleges and universities through the STARS

specialized programs. An Athens State to complete a bachelor’s degree on the

Wallace State campus. Program offerings, prerequisites, and required courses are available by viewing the Wallace State

catalog online at www.wallacestate.edu. For a program application packet, scholarship

application, and additional college information, please contact the Office of

Enrollment Management at 256.352.8031 or email recruiting@wallacestate.edu.

It is the policy of the Alabama Community College System Board of Trustees and Wallace State Community College, a postsecondary institution under its control, that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age or sexual orientation, be excluded from participation in, be denied benefit of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program, activity or employment. The College will not retaliate against any person because they have engaged in a protected activity opposing the College or because they have made a complaint, testified, assisted, or participated in any manner in an investigation, proceeding or hearing alleging discrimination on a basis specified above.


ABOUT PATHWAYS

Wallace State is pleased to be part of the American Association of Community Colleges Pathways Project, which is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The Pathways Project involves a rethinking and redesign of the student experience from enrollment through completion. As a student at Wallace State, you will be encouraged to choose a broad pathway from one of four metamajors - Liberal Arts/General Studies, Applied Technologies, STEM (Science, Technology, Engi-

neering, and Math), or Health Science — at the outset of your college career. The coursework you take early in your degree plan will be applicable to any major within the Pathway. Go to www.wallacestate.edu/pathways for a full list of programs. Choose the program of study you want to learn more about, and download a Pathway Map for an easy-to-use plan for completing the program. Visit our Advising Office to get started.

LIBERAL ARTS/GENERAL STUDIES

S.T.E.M

Business Administration Business Education & Office Administration Business Management & Supervision Criminal Justice Dance Global Studies Graphic Art & Design Music Education Paralegal Pre-Education Religious Studies

Computer Science Engineering Technology Geospatial Technology Math Poultry Science 2+2 Pre-Engineering/ Engineering Robotics Sciences

APPLIED TECHNOLOGIES

Agriculture/Horticulture Production Automotive Service Technology Aviation/Flight Technology Building Construction Collision Repair Culinary Arts Diesel Technology Engineering Technology HVAC & Refrigeration Machine Tool Technology Mechatronics, Electronics, Robotics Technology Salon & Spa Management Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Technology Small Farmer Training Welding

HEALTH SCIENCES Child Development Dental Assisting Dental Hygiene Diagnostic Imaging Diagnostic Medical Sonography Emergency Medical Services Health Information Technology/ Medical Coding Medical Assistant Medical Laboratory Technician Nursing Occupational Therapy Assistant Pharmacy Technology Physical Therapist Assistant Polysomongraphy Technologist Respiratory Therapy Sports Medicine


www.wallacestate.edu

CHILD DEVELOPMENT The Child Development program at Wallace State Community College works to instill in its students the skills and education they will need to play a vital role in a young person’s life. What children learn and experience during their early years can shape their views of themselves, the way they perceive the world, and their later successes in school, work, and their personal lives.


CHILD DEVELOPMENT AWARDS OFFERED: Associate in Applied Science, Certificate, Transfer CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Head Start, Kindergarten, Private Preschool, Pre-K , Early Head Start, or Teacher Assistant Our children are precious and invaluable to us.

Teachers of young children nurture future generations by providing the quality care and experiences needed for optimal brain development and continued learning.

Finding someone to care for them when we are at work or when it’s time to send them to school is something parents put a great deal of effort and consideration into. Teachers provide positive learning opportunities for children so they can learn and grow to reach their highest potential. The Child Development program at Wallace State Community College prepares graduates to become successful caregivers and administrators in early care and education programs. Wallace State offers both degree and certificate programs in Child Development. The Associate in Applied Science will qualify students to acquire positions as teachers in Head Start or Early Head Start programs, or as owners, directors, or teachers in preschool programs. They can also work as teacher assistants in public kindergarten programs or the Alabama First Class Pre-K program. The AAS degree can also be used as a stepping stone for those who plan to

CONTACT: Dr. Marcie Hill Program Director (256) 352.8383 marcie.hill@wallacestate.edu

further their education and earn a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. The Child Development Certificate program offers students background knowledge for all stages of child growth and development; training and practical experience in conducting all types of learning activities with children; and instruction in positive guidance, early literacy, discipline, and health and safety practices.

All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

DENTAL ASSISTING Graduates of the Wallace State Community College Dental Assisting program will be prepared to perform the numerous duties required to work in dental offices, hospitals, and clinics.


DENTAL ASSISTING AWARDS OFFERED: Associate in Applied Science, Certificate CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Most Full-Time Positions Available in Dentists’ Offices

Dental assistants perform a wide range of duties, including patient interaction, laboratory tasks & clerical; they work with patients to make them comfortable in the dental chair, preparing them for treatments and procedures.

Employment of dental assistants is expected to grow by 19 percent through 2026, much faster than average for all other occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some growth factors include the link between good oral health and general health, and the increase in the number of people keeping their original teeth compared to previous generations. More people will be seeking assistance to maintain and treat teeth. Dentists will continue to hire more dental assistants to complete routine tasks, allowing them to see more patients in the practice and spend more time on complex procedures. Dental assistants perform a wide range of duties, including patient interaction, laboratory tasks, and clerical; they work with patients to make them comfortable in the dental chair while preparing them for treatments and procedures. They assist dentists by handing them instruments and keep a patient’s mouth dry using a suction hose or other equipment. Dental assistants will also instruct patients on proper dental hygiene, process x-rays, perform lab tasks, and keep records of dental treatments. Some dental assistants prepare material for impressions and restorations. They remove sutures, apply topical anesthetics

CONTACT: Dr. Sharon Alley, DMD Program Director (256) 352.8025 sharon.alley@wallacestate.edu

to gums or cavity-preventive agents to teeth, remove excess cement used in the filling process, and place rubber dams on the teeth to isolate them for individual treatment. Graduates of the Wallace State Community College Dental Assistant program will be prepared to perform these and other duties in dental offices, hospitals, and clinics.

Dental Assisting is accredited by the American Dental Association. All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

DENTAL HYGIENE The new and increasing amount of technologies with the capacity to help diagnose oral health problems are also expected to create an increasing need for dental hygienists. Graduates of Wallace State’s Dental Hygiene program will be prepared to provide dental hygiene services for patients in dental practices, hospitals, nursing homes, and public health clinics.


DENTAL HYGIENE AWA R D O F F E R E D : A ssociate in Applied Science CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Most Full-Time Positions Available in Dentists’ Offices

Although dental hygienists cannot diagnose diseases, they can prepare clinical and laboratory diagnostic tests for the dentist to interpret. They sometimes work with the dentist during treatment.

The job market for dental hygienists is expected to make a big jump between now and 2026, with a 20 percent growth anticipated. Ongoing research linking oral health with general health will continue to spur the demand for preventative dental services. The new and increasing amount of technologies with the capacity to help diagnose oral health problems are also expected to create an increasing need for dental hygienists. For example, new tests taken specifically by a hygienist use patients’ saliva samples to spot early signs of oral cancer. Normal duties for a dental hygienist include removing soft and hard deposits from teeth, teaching patients how to practice good oral hygiene, and providing other dental care. They examine patients’ teeth and gums, recording the presence of disease or abnormalities. They remove tartar, stains, and plaque from teeth; perform root planning as a periodontal therapy; take and develop dental x-rays; and apply cavity-preventive agents. Although dental hygienists cannot diagnose diseases, they can prepare clinical and laboratory diagnostic tests

CONTACT: Dr. Sharon Alley, DMD

for the dentist to interpret. They sometimes work with the dentist during treatment.

Program Director (256) 352.8025 sharon.alley@wallacestate.edu

Dental Hygiene is accredited by the American Dental Association. All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING Students at WSCC are taught the fundamental principles of all underlying phases of radiologic technology. Participation in the performance of radiographic procedures in a clinical setting begins during the first semester of the program.


DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING AWARD OFFERED: Associate in Applied Science CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Hospitals, Doctors’ Offices, Clinics & Diagnostic Imaging Centers

Employment of radiologic technologists has an expected growth rate of 13 percent through 2026.

The Diagnostic Imaging program is designed to provide qualified radiologic technologists for diagnostic imaging departments of hospitals and clinics. The program can be completed in four semesters after two semesters of pre-requisite courses. It is the only program in the state currently offering the degree in four semesters. Radiologic technologists create images using x-rays that pass through the body. They are educated in anatomy, patient positioning, examination techniques, equipment protocols, radiation safety and protection, and basic patient care. They may also administer contrast media to visualize anatomy in the body such as the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Radiologic technologists may have the opportunity to specialize in specific imaging modalities such as bone densitometry, computed tomography (CT), mammography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, or sonography. The Wallace State Community College Diagnostic

CONTACT:

Imaging program is currently accredited by the

Jim Malone, M.H. Sc. RT(R)(CT) Program Director

Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic

(256) 352.8309 james.malone@wallacestate.edu

Technology (www.jrcert.org). To review program effectiveness data for WSCC and other JRCERT accredited programs, please visit https://portal.jrcertaccreditation. org/summary/programannualreportlist.aspx The national projections by the Department of Labor indicate that employment of radiologic technologist has an expected growth rate of 13 percent through 2026.

Diagnostic Imaging is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education In Radiologic Technology. All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY Diagnostic medical sonographers may specialize in obstetric and gynecological sonography, abdominal sonography, neurosonography, or breast sonography. In addition, sonographers may specialize in vascular technology or echocardiography.


DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY AWARDS OFFERED: Associate in Applied Science in Abdominal and Obstetric Sonography; Associate in Applied Science in Cardiac and Vascular Sonography CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Hospitals, Doctors’ Offices, Medical & Diagnostic Labs, Outpatient Care Centers

Sonography is usually associated with obstetrics and the use of ultrasound imaging during pregnancy, but the technology has many other applications in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.

Diagnostic Medical Sonography is currently one of the fastest-growing occupations. By 2026, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 23 percent growth in employment for this field, much faster than the average growth rate for any other occupation. As ultrasound technology evolves, it will be widely used by more medical facilities as a substitute for procedures that are costly, invasive, or expose patients to radiation. It’s also a choice more patients are expected to request in the future. Sonography is usually associated with obstetrics and the use of ultrasound imaging during pregnancy, but the technology has many other applications in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. Diagnostic medical sonographers may specialize in obstetric and gynecological sonography, abdominal sonography, neurosonography, or breast sonography. In addition, sonographers may specialize in vascular technology or echocardiography.

CONTACT:

Starting in Fall 2019, the Diagnostic Sonography

April Sutherland

program will offer two associate degree options: a

Program Director

general degree focusing on Abdominal and Obstetric

(256) 352.8318

Sonography, and a Cardiovascular option focusing on

april.sutherland@wallacestate.edu

Cardiac and Vascular Sonography.

Diagnostic Medical Sonography is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

The Emergency Medical Services program at Wallace State Community College prepares students to become competent entry-level EMTs. EMTs are licensed at three levels in Alabama, EMT-Basic, EMT-Paramedic, and Advanced EMT. Students completing all three EMT certificate levels and all academic core curriculum courses may receive an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Emergency Medical Services.


EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES AWARDS OFFERED: Associate in Applied Science, Certificate-Basic EMT, Certificate-Advanced EMT, Certificate-Paramedic CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Ambulance Ser vices, Local Government, Hospitals

Through 2026, employment of EMTs and paramedics is expected to grow by 15 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

When emergency medical technicians and paramedics are dispatched to the scene of a medical emergency, they are depended upon to provide quick and competent care to those in need. EMTs and paramedics provide vital medical attention as they care for and transport the sick or injured to a medical facility. The purpose of the Emergency Medical Services program at Wallace State Community College is to prepare students to become competent entry-level EMTs. EMTs are licensed at three levels in Alabama, EMT-Basic, EMTParamedic, and Advanced EMT. Students completing all three EMT certificate levels and all academic core curriculum courses may receive an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Emergency Medical Services. Courses are offered at both the main Hanceville campus and Oneonta Center. Graduates qualify for employment with air and ground ambulance services, fire and rescue departments, industrial safety departments, and emergency departments with medical facilities.

CONTACT:

Through 2026 employment of EMTs and paramedics is

(256) 352.7848

expected to grow by 15 percent, according to the U.S.

www.wallacestate.edu/ems

Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Emergency Medical Services is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (COAEMSP). All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY HIT professionals perform the data collection and analysis that doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals need to do their job well and are a key part of quality patient care. HIT professionals perform medical coding, analysis, and other functions of health information management. The HIT degree is the preferred training for medical coding professionals.


HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AWARD OFFERED: Associate in Applied Science CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Hospitals, Doctors’ Offices, Nursing Care Facilities, Home Health Care Services, Remote/Home-Based Setting According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, em-

HIT professionals perform the data collection and analysis that doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals need to do their job well and are a key part of quality patient care.

ployment of medical records and health information technicians is expected to increase by 13 percent between 2016 and 2026. Health Information Technology (HIT) professionals perform the data collection and analysis that doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals need to do their job well and are a key part of quality patient care. HIT professionals perform medical coding, analysis, and other functions of health information management. The HIT degree is the preferred training for medical coding professionals. Students complete class work online with the exception of clinical courses. Successful graduates of this CAHIIM accredited Health Information Technology program are eligible to take the national examination to become a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). Wallace State is one of only two CAHIIM accredited programs in the

CONTACT:

state of Alabama.

Donna Conn Program Director (256) 352.8325 donna.conn@wallacestate.edu

Health Information Technology is accredited by Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

MEDICAL ASSISTANT

Graduates of the Medical Assistant program at Wallace State Community College work in doctors’ offices and other healthcare facilities. Medical Assistants are trained to perform a variety of jobs within a medical practices, from clerical duties such as scheduling appointments and maintaining medical records, to clinical duties such as preparing patients for examinations, to performing routine laboratory duties.


MEDICAL ASSISTANT AWARD OFFERED: Associate in Applied Science CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Doctors’ Offices, Health Care Facilities

They’re the people who take your weight and blood pressure when you visit the doctor’s office, assist the doctor during patient visits, and administer medication when directed. They may schedule an appointment or send blood off for testing.

Medical Assistants take your weight and blood pressure when you visit the doctor’s office. They assist the doctor with patient care, procedures, and minor office surgery. They can administer medications, perform lab work including basic tests and urinalysis, and with microscopic exams. During patient visits they give shots when directed, schedule your next appointment or send blood off for testing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts there will be a 29 percent jump in the number of medical assistants hired by the year 2026. Along with the previously listed duties, they can also perform a number of clerical and clinical responsibilities that can include performing first aid and CPR, and performing electrocardiograms and basic radiography. Administrative skills include scheduling appointments, referrals, telephone triage, records management, filing insurance, and coding. Graduates of the Medical Assistant program at Wallace State Community College are prepared to take the medical assistants national certification examination after meeting eligibility requirements. The Medical Assistant program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied

CONTACT:

Health

Education

Programs

(www.caahep.org)

Tracie Fuqua, B.S. CMA (AAMA)

(www.maerb.org), upon the recommendation of the

Program Director

Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB)

(256) 352.8321

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health

tracie.fuqua@wallacestate.edu

Programs, 25400 U.S. Highway 19 North, Suite 158, Clearwater, FL 33763 (727) 210.2350.

Medical Assistant is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB) Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org). All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

MEDICAL CODING The Medical Coding certificate program at Wallace State Community College prepares students to become medical coding specialists, educating them on the classification systems used in the industry today.


MEDICAL CODING AWARD OFFERED: Certificate CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Hospitals, Doctors’ Offices, Nursing Care Facilities, Home Health Care Ser vices, Remote Coder from Home

Medical coders are the individuals who input information regarding patients into computers using numeric classification codes that are assigned to each diagnosis and procedure.

Medical coders are the individuals who input information regarding patients into computers using numeric classification codes that are assigned to each diagnosis and procedure. They can use automated or manual methods to perform such tasks. They also perform detailed reviews of health records to identify diagnoses and operative procedures. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting a 13 percent growth in employment for medical coders by 2026. The Medical Coding certificate program at Wallace State Community College prepares students to become medical coding specialists, educating them on the classification systems used in the industry today. Graduates find employment opportunities in physicians’ offices and other outpatient settings. If your career goals include coding in an inpatient facility, the Health Information Technology degree program is the preferred training. Students complete class work online with the exception of clinical experience courses. Each graduate of the program qualifies as a candidate for the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) national ex-

CONTACT:

amination to become a Certified Coding Associate

Donna Conn

(CCA). When combined with extensive on-the-job

Program Director

experience, the Medical Coding coursework also

(256) 352.8325

prepares the student to take the AHIMA examina-

donna.conn@wallacestate.edu

tion to become a Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) or a Certified Coding Specialists – Physician Office (CCS-P).

All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN Wallace State Community College’s Medical Laboratory Technician program provides the training and education needed to enter the workforce, including the eligibility to sit for the Board of Certification Examination.


MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN AWARDS OFFERED: Associate in Applied Science, Certificate CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Hospital, Diagnostic Laborator y, Doctors’ Offices, Federal Government

Medical laboratory testing plays a crucial role in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease.

Medical laboratory testing plays a crucial role in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. Using sophisticated lab equipment, medical laboratory personnel examine and analyze body fluids and cells. They look for bacteria, parasites, and other microorganisms; analyze the chemical content of fluids; match blood for transfusions; and test for drug levels in the blood to show how a patient is responding to treatment. They also prepare specimens for examination, count cells, and look for abnormal cells in blood and body fluids. They perform analyses in the areas of microbiology, hematology, immunology, biochemistry, and immunohematology, and results are relayed from the lab to physicians. Through 2026, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the employment of medical laboratory technicians will grow by 13 percent. The growth is expected due to an aging population, creating a greater need for diagnosing medical conditions.

CONTACT:

The median annual wage nationwide for medical and

Chris Cleghorn

clinical laboratory technologist and technicians in

Program Director

2018 was $52,330, with the lowest 10 percent earning

(256) 352.8347 chris.cleghorn@wallacestate.edu

$29,910 and top 10 percent averaging $80,330. Wallace State Community College’s Medical Laboratory Technician program provides the training and education needed to enter the workforce, including the eligibility to sit for the Board of Certification Examination. A new Medical Laboratory Assistant Certificate is also offered,

Medical Laboratory is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences.

with completion in less than two semesters.

All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

NURSING Wallace State’s School of Nursing and Center for Science offers the most up-todate and state-of-the-art facilities for nursing students. The Department of Nursing Education earned the designation as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education from the National League for Nursing in 2016. The faculty and staff are dedicated to student excellence in every arena.


NURSING AWARDS OFFERED: PN-Certificate; RN-Associate in Applied Science; concurrent Bachelor of Science in Nursing from University of Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: RN-Private and Local Hospitals, Doctors’ Offices; LPN-Nursing Care Facilities, Private Hospitals and Doctors’ Offices

The Wallace State Community College Nursing program is one of the best in the nation and provides the education and training needed to become either a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN).

Wallace State’s School of Nursing and Center for Science offers the most advanced facilities for nursing students. The simulation center, designed as a hospital, challenges students with realistic scenarios in a safe environment, complete with step-by-step debriefings of each procedure for an enhanced learning experience. The Wallace State Community College Nursing program is one of the best in the nation. In 2016 it earned the distinction of being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. The Nursing curriculum is designed so that students successfully completing the first three semesters of the program will qualify to sit for the LPN licensure exam, allowing them to work in the field if they wish while they complete the next two semesters to sit for the RN licensure exam. A new joint program with UAB allows Wallace State

CONTACT:

students to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Deborah Hoover, MSN, CRNP, RN

There is also an agreement with the University of

Program Director

Alabama; graduates of the ADN program may transfer

(256) 352.8411

work toward a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

deborah.hoover@wallacestate.edu

Visit our website: www.wallacestate.edu/nursing.

ADN → BSN Partnership Nursing is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT Wallace State can help students earn the associate degree that is generally required to qualify for Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs, and be prepared to meet the rising demand for Occupational Therapy Assistants.


OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT AWARD OFFERED: Associate in Applied Science CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Rehabilitation Facilities, Doctors’ Offices, Outpatient Therapy Clinics, Private Practices, Nursing Care Facilities, Hospitals, Schools, Home Health Care Agencies, Psychiatric Offices, Community-Based Practices

Occupational therapy assistants work under the supervision of an occupational therapist to help patients recover from injuries, illness, or disabilities that limit their independence.

Occupational therapy assistants (OTA) work under the supervision of an occupational therapist to help patients recover from injuries, illness, or disabilities that limit their independence. They help patients develop, recover and improve the skills needed to increase their independence with chosen occupations, such as self-care, cooking, leisure activities, household management, and other activities of daily living. Occupational therapy takes a holistic approach by looking at the patient as a whole person, rather than focusing on the limitations of that individual. If not possible to improve the person’s physical performance, an occupational therapy assistant may modify the task or environment so that the patient can still perform the activity as independently as possible. An OTA may work in a variety of settings, including rehabilitation facilities, physicians’ offices, outpatient therapy clinics for adult or children, private practices, nursing care facilities, hospitals, schools, home health care agencies,

CONTACT:

psychiatric facilities, and community-based settings.

Laura Smith, M.S., OTR/L

Wallace State can help students earn the associate de-

Program Director

gree that is generally required to qualify for Occupational

(256) 352.8333

Therapy Assistant jobs, and be prepared to meet the rising

laura.smith@wallacestate.edu

demand for Occupational Therapy Assistants.

The Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Wallace State Community College is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 4720 Montgomery Lane, Suite 200, Bethesda, MD 2018-3449. ACOTE’s telephone number, c/o AOTA, is 301.652.AOTA. ACOTE’s web address is www.acoteonline.org.

All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

PHARMACY TECHNOLOGY The Alabama Board of Pharmacy requires technicians be registered with the Board in order to practice as a pharmacy tech. Additionally, formal training and certification from a recognized institution like Wallace State Community College benefits job candidates in the workforce.


PHARMACY TECHNOLOGY AWARD OFFERED: Short-Term Certificate CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Pharmacy and Drug Stores, Hospitals, Grocer y Stores, Other Retail Outlets

Pharmacy technicians work under the supervision of a pharmacist, who reviews all prescriptions before they are given to patients.

Pharmacy technicians are most commonly found working in the retail sector, but they can also find job opportunities in medical facilities. Pharmacy technicians work under the supervision of a pharmacist, who reviews all prescriptions before they are given to patients. The technician will prepare the necessary amounts of medications for the prescription. They may also compound or mix medications, package and label prescriptions, ring up sales, or process insurance claims. Technicians working in a hospital setting prepare a greater variety of medications, such as intravenous medications. They also assist with the maintenance of medication inventory throughout the hospital. The Alabama Board of Pharmacy requires technicians be registered with the Board in order to practice as a pharmacy tech. Additionally, formal training and certification from a recognized institution like Wallace State

CONTACT: Brandon Brooks

Community College benefits job candidates in the workforce.

Program Director (256) 352.8023 brandon.brooks@wallacestate.edu

Pharmacy Technology is accredited by American Society of Health System Pharmacists. All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT Physical Therapist Assistants work with many age groups, from infants to the elderly as they help patients recover from injuries, illness, and surgery to regain movement and functional abilities.


PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT AWARD OFFERED: Associate in Applied Science CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Outpatient Clinics, Hospitals, Skilled Nursing Care Facilities, Rehabilitation Centers, Home Health Agencies and Schools

PTAs work with many age groups, from infants to the elderly as they help patients recover from injuries, illness, and surgery to regain movement, and functional abilities.

Between 2016 and 2026, the employment of physical therapist assistants is expected to increase by 30 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Physical therapists are expected to increase the use of assistants to reduce the cost of physical therapy services. After evaluating patients and designing a treatment plan, the PTA can provide many parts of the treatment as directed by the supervising therapist. Additionally, an aging population, particularly the large baby-boom generation, is expected to increase demand for physical therapist assistants. Baby boomers are entering the prime age range for heart attacks and strokes, increasing the demands for cardiac and physical rehabilitations. PTAs work with many age groups, from infants to the elderly as they help patients recover from injuries, illness, and surgery to regain movement and functional abilities. Patients include accident and sports-related injuries and individuals with disability conditions such as low-back pain, arthritis, heart disease, fractures, head and spinal cord injuries, and pediatric developmental

CONTACT: Alina C. Adams, PT

disabilities.

Program Director

Visit our program website at www.wallacestate.edu/

(256) 352.8332

Programs/Health-Division/Physical-Therapist-Assistant.

alina.adams@wallacestate.edu

Physical Therapist Assistant is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

POLYSOMNOGRAPHIC TECHNOLOGIST Trained in sleep technology and relevant aspects of sleep medicine, sleep technologists assist in the evaluation and follow-up care of patients with sleep disorders as identified in the current International Classification of Sleep Disorders. Sleep Technology is recognized as a separate and distinct allied health profession.


POLYSOMNOGRAPHIC TECHNOLOGIST (SLEEP LAB) AWARD OFFERED: Short-Term Certificate CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Hospitals, Sleep Centers, Laboratories, Medical Equipment Settings, Research, Home & Non-Facility-Based Settings Under Supervision

Sleep technologists assist in the education, evaluation, treatment and follow-up of sleep disorders in patients of all ages.

Trained in sleep technology and relevant aspects of sleep medicine, sleep technologists assist in the evaluation and follow-up care of patients with sleep disorders as identified in the current International Classification of Sleep Disorders. Sleep Technology is recognized as a separate and distinct allied health profession. The scope of practice of sleep technologists enables them to work in sleep centers, laboratories for sleep related breathing disorders, Durable Medical Equipment (DME) settings, academic and industry research settings, home environments, and non-facility-based settings under the direction of a sleep specialist. Sleep technologists assist sleep specialists in the clinical assessment, physiological monitoring and testing, diagnosis, management, and prevention of sleep related disorders with the use of various diagnostic and therapeutic tools providing care to patients of all ages. These tools include but are not limited to polysomnographs, positive airway pressure devices and accessory equip-

CONTACT: Lisa Tarvin, BC,CS,AAS, RRT, RPSGT, RST, CCSH Program Director (256) 352.8410 lisa.tarvin@wallacestate.edu

ment, out of center sleep (OCST) devices, oximeters, capnographs, actigraphs, nocturnal oxygen, screening devices, and questionnaires. The sleep technologist is responsible for the care, comfort and safety of the patient. An understanding of the patient’s sleep and other medical problems, including

Polysomnographic Technology is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), Committee on Accreditation for Polysomnographic Technologist Education (COAPSG).

medications is essential. The technologist interacts with the patient throughout the evaluation to assure patient comfort, safety, and to promote patient understanding of and compliance with all procedures and treatment.

All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

RESPIRATORY THERAPY The Respiratory Therapy program at Wallace State is structured to provide its graduates with the training necessary to successfully complete the requirements for the advanced practitioner level as defined by the National Board of Respiratory Care.


RESPIRATORY THERAPY AWARD OFFERED: Associate in Applied Science CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Hospitals, Nursing Care Facilities, Medical Equipment Rental Companies

With an expected 23 percent increase in the employment of respiratory therapists through 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, this is a good time to consider respiratory therapy as a potential career.

Respiratory therapists evaluate and treat all types of patients, from premature infants whose lungs are not fully developed to adult patients whose lungs may be diseased. They also provide temporary relief to patients with chronic asthma or emphysema, as well as emergency care to patients who are victims of a heart attack, stroke, trauma, drowning, or shock. While hospitals employ the greatest number of respiratory therapists, job opportunities will also be available with home health care services, physicians’ offices, and medical equipment rental firms. The Respiratory Therapy program at Wallace State is structured to provide its graduates with the training necessary to successfully complete the requirements for the advanced practitioner level as defined by the National Board of Respiratory Care. With an anticipated 23 percent increase in the employment of respiratory therapists through 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, this is a good time to consider respiratory therapy as a potential career.

CONTACT: Ashley Lancaster Program Director (256) 352.8310 ashley.lancaster@wallacestate.edu

Respiratory Therapy is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care. All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

SPORTS MEDICINE The Sports Medicine program is designed to prepare students to assist with healthcare issues of athletes. Wallace State’s program provides students with the background knowledge and allows them to complete all of their general required courses before transferring to a four-year university to continue their education.


SPORTS MEDICINE AWARD OFFERED: Associate in Science (General Studies) CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Health Clubs, Sports Medicine Clinics, Educational Institutions, Hospitals

Employment of athletic trainers is projected to grow 23 percent from 2016 to 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Sports medicine professionals such as athletic trainers work closely with physicians and other healthcare workers to prevent, diagnose, and treat muscle and bone injuries and illnesses in athletes. Wallace State’s Sports Medicine program offers students a solid foundation in health and physical education, as well as access to the general required courses needed to transfer to a four-year college to complete a bachelor’s degree and beyond. With the knowledge learned while at Wallace State, students could look for positions on college sports teams while they continue their education. Once in the field as an athletic trainer, for example, they would work under the direction of a licensed physician and other healthcare providers, often discussing specific injuries and treatment options or evaluating and treating patients, as directed by a physician. Employment of athletic trainers is projected to grow 23

CONTACT: Paul Bailey Department Chair (256) 352.8359

percent from 2016 to 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual wage for athletic trainers nationwide in 2017 was $46,630, the BLS reported.

paul.bailey@wallacestate.edu

All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.


www.wallacestate.edu

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE Wallace State Community College’s Therapeutic Massage program is a short-term certificate program, with completion in only two semesters. A degree option is offered through the Salon and Spa Management program in four semesters.


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE AWARDS OFFERED: Short-Term Certificate, Associate in Applied Science in Salon & Spa Management-Therapeutic Massage CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Private Practice, Health Care Clinics, Resorts and Spas, Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers

Wallace State Community College’s Therapeutic Massage program is a short-term certificate program, with completion in only two semesters.

With more people recognizing the benefit of massage therapy and the number of massage clinics increasing, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is predicting a 26 percent growth in employment of massage therapists through 2026. Wallace State Community College’s Therapeutic Massage program is a short-term certificate program, with completion in only two semesters. Classes begin in the fall semester. Class times are scheduled in combination with online classes to accommodate health care professionals who wish to continue working while earning their certification. The massage therapy curriculum is also available to the general public. A degree option that can be completed in four semesters is offered through the Salon and Spa Management program. Classes throughout the two semesters combine classroom theory and labs with hands-on clinical massage experiences in the on-campus facilities.

CONTACT: Babs Herfurth Program Director

Graduates of the program will be eligible to apply to sit for the State Board licensure exam, adminis-

(256) 352.8425

tered by the Federation of State Boards of Massage

babs.herfurth@wallacestate.edu

Therapy. After successful completion of this exam, the graduate can be licensed as a massage therapist by the State of Alabama. Licensure is required to practice in Alabama.

Therapeutic Massage is accredited Licensed by the Alabama Board of Massage Therapy. All salary statistics are national averages provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state salaries may vary.

Rev0619


Hanceville Campus

Oneonta Center

801 Main Street NW

101 First Ave. W

P.O. Box 2000

Hanceville, AL 35077 256.352.8000

P.O. Box 200

Oneonta, AL 35121 205.625.4020

1.866.350.WSCC www.wallacestate.edu

A Wallace State of Mind. Wallace State Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate degrees. Contact the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404.679.4500 for questions about the accreditation of Wallace State Community College. Many programs have additional accreditation from organizations appropriate to the particular disciplines. Routine inquiries about Wallace State, such as admission requirements, inancial aid, educational programs, etc., should be addressed directly to Wallace State.


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