Pre-Allied Health Certificate of Achievement

The Pre-Allied Health Certificate at College of the Desert is a focused, 17-unit program designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and practical skills essential for various entry-level roles in the health sciences field. This certificate serves as an ideal pathway for those seeking to enter the healthcare industry or for those planning to further their education in health-related fields.

he Pre-Allied Health Certificate program at College of the Desert is designed with a strong emphasis on workforce preparation, aiming to equip students with the essential knowledge and practical skills necessary for a successful career in the healthcare sector. This program is crafted as a robust educational pathway that bridges the gap between academic study and real-world application in health sciences. Central to its mission is the preparation of students for entry-level positions in various health-related fields, particularly for roles that do not necessitate full nursing qualifications. The curriculum, encompassing core courses in Anatomy and Physiology as well as a range of electives like Microbiology, Medical Terminology, Pharmacology, Nutrition, and Chemistry, is tailored to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded educational experience. Beyond immediate job readiness, the program also lays a foundation for students who wish to advance their careers or pursue further education in nursing or allied health fields, thereby supporting their long-term professional growth and development. Through this program, College of the Desert aspires to contribute significantly to the healthcare workforce, ensuring that graduates are not only well-prepared for their roles but are also equipped with the knowledge and skills to adapt to the evolving needs of the healthcare industry.

The Pre-Allied Health Certificate's program requirements reflect College of the Desert's commitment to providing relevant, comprehensive education that meets the evolving needs of the healthcare industry and the aspirations of our students. By equipping students with both foundational knowledge and specialized skills, the program opens doors to a range of career opportunities and pathways for further academic pursuit in the diverse and rewarding field of health sciences.

Fall Semester Year 1:

• BIO-013: Anatomy & Physiology I w/lab (4 units): This foundational course introduces students to the structure and function of the human body, emphasizing hands-on learning through lab work.
• CH 007: Fundamentals of Chemistry (5 units): Offering a solid foundation in chemical principles, this course is crucial for understanding biological processes and pharmacology.

Spring Semester Year 1:

• BIO-014: Anatomy & Physiology II w/lab (5 units): Building on the knowledge from the first semester, this course delves deeper into the anatomy and physiology of the human body, with continued emphasis on laboratory experience.
• HS 061: Medical Terminology (3 units): Essential for all health professionals, this course helps students master the language of medicine, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively in healthcare settings.

Fall Semester Year 2 (Optional Courses):

• HS 065: Basic Pharmacology (3 units): (Optional) Provides an overview of pharmacological principles, drug classifications, and their applications in healthcare.
• BIO-015: Microbiology w/lab (5 units): (Optional) Explores microorganisms' roles in health and disease, emphasizing laboratory skills in culturing, staining, and identifying microbes.
• CH 005: Bio-Organic Chemistry (4 units): (Optional) Focuses on the chemistry of biological processes, critical for students pursuing advanced health science studies.
• HS 013: General Nutrition (3 units): (Optional) Covers nutritional science's principles, exploring the impact of diet on health and disease.

Program Goals: The Pre-Allied Health Certificate of Completion aims to prepare competent and skilled health science professionals who can effectively contribute to the healthcare sector. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level health science careers and provide a solid base for those seeking to advance to more specialized roles or further education in healthcare professions such as nursing, pharmacy, or medical technology.