Health Sciences

The healthcare industry is booming and ten-year projections indicate continued strong growth. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that nearly one in seven Americans will be employed in the healthcare and social assistance industry by 2028.The large population of aging baby boomers is often cited as a major contributor to this growth. As they grow older, many develop health concerns that require more care, increasing the need for workers to meet the demand.

The primary function of the healthcare industry is to treat patients facing illness or injury—whether to cure or rehabilitate from a condition, to maintain wellness, or to provide comfort or palliative care to persons dealing with incurable conditions. A number of other industries relate closely to healthcare, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and health insurance. In this industry, credentials matter greatly; jobs are generally defined by the education, certification, and licensure you possess, for example Certified Nurse Assistant, Licensed Practical Nurse, or Registered Nurse.

Certified Nursing Assistant

Students enrolled in the Health Occupations CNA Training Program at KACC can become a CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant). The Health Occupations I program at KACC is taught by Registered Nurses (RN’s) who are certified to teach the CNA program through the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Students will learn basic nursing skills including vital signs, nutrition, and patient care to prepare them for continuing education at the college level. Healthcare occupations may include respiratory therapists, occupational/physical therapists, radiology, EMTs, LPNs and RNs.

Medical Terminology

Students enrolled in the Health Occupations CNA Training Program at KACC can become a CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant). The Health Occupations I program at KACC is taught by Registered Nurses (RN’s) who are certified to teach the CNA program through the Illinois Department of Public Health.

This course will provide students a basic knowledge of the healthcare industry by surveying various occupations and equipping them with hands-on skills such as vital signs, personal protective equipment, etc. Students will also become certified in CPR and Basic Life Support through the American Heart Association.