HEALTH OCCUPATIONS
STANDARD COURSE OF STUDY

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The comprehensive Health Occupations Education program seeks to meet present and predicted needs for health care workers within a health care delivery system that is characterized by diversity and changing technologies. It is a program that recruits qualified and motivated students and prepares them for pursuit of appropriate health careers.

DESIGN

Based on natural and social sciences, the humanities, and a researched body of knowledge, the curriculum is designed to offer a foundation of knowledge and skills necessary to health career preparation. Curriculum concepts incorporate technological advances related to the health care delivery system, including ethics, professionalism, prevention (wellness), patient/client diagnosis, treatment, care, and rehabilitation as a result of disease/disorders. Teaching/learning strategies integrate appropriate workplace basic skills that assist students to use resources and technologies, function as effective members within a complex system, and to access and use appropriate information/data.

Guiding students to make relevant connections between abstract theories and concrete applications is emphasized throughout the curriculum. This is especially practiced through team teaching with health professionals and on-site practicums (mentorships/internships).

Opportunities for expanded leadership, management, technical, and citizenship development are available through membership in a co-curricular student organization, Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA). The organization includes local, regional, state, and national levels. Activities integrate curriculum competencies and objectives. Healthy competition through organized and judged skill events assists in strengthening those skills that make students more marketable as potential health care workers. Interaction with health professionals also guides members in the selection of health careers. HOSA seeks to instill an attitude of pride, commitment, and professionalism in its members, and strives to build self-esteem and confidence.