Health Occupation

The technical programs offered through the Health Sciences Division are college-level programs of study developed by advisory committees comprised of representatives from the fields of education and the health discipline. Students who complete all courses prescribed in a particular curriculum receive an Associate of Applied Science degree or Certificate of Proficiency. Many of the degree and certificate programs are nationally accredited. These programs are primarily designed to meet state and national licensure and certification requirements. Students desiring information on the transferability of courses within these programs to university baccalaureate programs should consult the program advisor, the counseling staff, or a representative at the transfer school.

Students who enter the Health Sciences Division and work toward an Associate of Applied Science degree have the option of receiving the Enhanced Skills Certificate in specific Tech Prep articulated programs. Students holding the Enhanced Skills Certificate will have advanced technical skills combined with a strong academic foundation that will enhance the transition to either the world of work or further education.

Additionally, South Plains College offers a number of health occupation programs which award a Certificate of Proficiency upon successful completion. These college-level certificate programs are designed to provide specialized training for a particular health discipline in a relatively short period of time. Most certificate programs can be completed in one year. The courses in these programs are designed to prepare persons for employment in the current job market or in emerging occupations. All health occupation programs are approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the State Approval Agency for the Veterans Administration.

Minimum competency levels for graduation have been established for all programs in this division. These competency levels have been determined by business and industry advisory committees comprised of employers and representatives from the professional medical community and by accrediting bodies. Competency levels generally are acquired over the prescribed course length unless the program instructor grants a student advanced standing on the basis of previous experience and/or education or certifies the student has reached a demonstrated proficiency level sufficient for early graduation.

Programs in the Health Sciences Division are under the supervision of the Dean of Health Sciences.

 

Admission to Health Sciences Programs

In addition to the general admission requirements for South Plains College, students enrolling in any one of the programs offered by the Health Sciences Division must meet additional admissions criteria. These requirements are detailed in this catalog in each of the program descriptions. Contact the coordinator of the program in which enrollment is desired to obtain specific admission requirements.