155 Ayers Street • Barre, Vermont 05641 • Tel: 802-476-6237 • Fax: 802-476-4045

Thumbnail Description

The Medical Services Program allows students to explore many careers within the health care field. Academic theory combines with hands-on learning in the classroom lab, and later in an actual practice setting, for a realistic approach to the health care arena. Some of the topics covered include human structure and function (anatomy and physiology), personal care and hygiene, communication skills, basic metric conversions, nutrition and medical terminology. To enroll in this program, students must be able to lift 50 lbs. and have had a physical examination within 3 months of entering the program.

Initial exploration of health care careers includes classroom work (lecture, readings and independent study projects) and visits with local experts in the field. Direct clinical application of skills, job shadowing and work/study co-ops are all possible. Local sites used include the Central Vermont Medical Center, Woodridge Nursing Home, local dental offices, and other area health care providers, depending upon student interests.

Career Opportunities

Therapeutic Services

Audiologist, dental hygienist, physician, licensed practical nurse, registered dietician, registered nurse, respiratory therapist, surgical technician

Diagnostic Services

Exercise physiologist, medical technologist, pathologist, phlebotomist, radiologic technologist, radiologist

Health Informatics

Admitting clerk, data analyst, epidemiologist, ethicist, health educator, patient advocate, social worker

Support Services

Central services, environmental services, food services, transportation technician

Biotechnology Research & Development
Biomedical chemist, geneticist, research assistant, toxicologist

Related Academics

Students enrolling in the Health Science Program would benefit from strong math and science backgrounds including algebra, geometry, various science courses as well as chemistry. Latin is very helpful for anyone interested in the health/ medical field. Permission for off campus travel, physical within 3 months of starting class (documentation must verify ability to lift 50 lbs.), up to date immunizations and skin test for TB (called the ppd) are requirements for enrollment.

Industry Certification & Dual Enrollment

Students have the opportunity to gain the following certifications and college credits
through Community College of Vermont. The certifications and college credits require a
passing score on exams, the Accuplacer, and a B or better in the program.
• Community First Aid (CFA-ARC) Certificate
• CPR child, infant and adult (CPR-ARC) Certificate
• Automated External Defibrillation (AED) Certificate
• Blood borne Pathogens (ARC) Certificate
• 3-6 credits with Community College of Vermont, Medical Terminology and Human Biology