Patient Care Technology, Certificate

The Patient Care Technician Certification Program prepares students to provide direct patient care in a variety of healthcare settings under the supervision of a registered nurse or other licensed healthcare provider. The curriculum emphasizes foundational clinical skills necessary for supporting patients with activities of daily living, mobility, nutrition, and hygiene. Students also receive training in vital sign measurement, electrocardiogram (EKG) testing and monitoring, and basic phlebotomy procedures.

Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) examination administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

This program is offered in a blended format, with courses available both online and in person to accommodate diverse learning needs.

Program of Study

Semester 1

ALH 104 - Medical Terminology 3 credit hrs
ALH 155 - Healthcare Workplace Safety 1 credit hrs
ALH 165 - Electrocardiogram Fundamentals 2 credit hrs
ANP 118 - Introduction to the Human Body 4 credit hrs *May be waived if ANP 230 & 231 completed with a ‘C’ or better

Total: 10 Credit Hrs | 12 Contact Hrs

Semester 2

ALH 160 - Phlebotomy 2 credit hrs *
ALH 170 - Patient Care Technician Board Prep 2 credit hrs
NUR 105 - Nurse Assistant 3 credit hrs *
COM 100 - Introduction to Communication 3 credit hrs OR COM 110 - Interpersonal Communications 3 credit hrs OR COM 206 - Small Group Communications 3 credit hrs

Total: 10 Credit Hrs | 15 Contact Hrs

Certificate Total: 20 Credit Hrs | 27 Contact Hrs

*Prior to the clinical experience in NUR 105 and ALH 160, the healthcare agencies require a criminal background investigation of students. Any negative factors in students’ background may limit or prevent placement in one or more agency and also may impact continuation or enrollment in the class/program. Additional clinical requirements include but may not be limited to providing immunizations, a 2-step TB, and urine drug screen.