North Arkansas College

The Administrative Medical Assistant (AMA) healthcare program prepares a graduate to work as a valuable aid in the non-medical aspects of the physician practice by completing patient-related paperwork, appointment scheduling, filing records, handling insurance, performing billing, coding and bookkeeping responsibilities. Instruction includes communication with patients, medical law and ethics, and computerized medical records management.

The Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA) healthcare program prepares a graduate to work as a valuable aid to complete many of the routine tasks involved in patient care in outpatient clinics or offices, specialty clinics, or hospitals. Students in the CMA program learn to record vital signs, assist with examinations, and explain treatments or tests, administer medications, obtain laboratory specimens, perform electrocardiograms, and sterilize equipment. Students learn to maintain the exam rooms and supply specialty areas.

The Medical Assistant healthcare program prepares a graduate to work in hospital and outpatient clinic settings. Medical Assistants perform both administrative and clinical duties under the direction of physicians and licensed staff in their offices or other medical settings. The Medical Assistant program is a one-year Technical Certificate degree program. This program offers the student a broad foundation in basic medical assisting skills including skills lab and practicum hours in a medical setting under the supervision of clinic personnel and the college program director. Both clinical and administrative components of the role are addressed. Basic medical assistant training and education consist of learning experiences in communication skills and patient relations, medical law and ethics, patient intake, medical record and privacy practices, examination room procedures, assisting with minor surgery procedures, clinical lab skills and general clinic office practices including basic medical coding and billing.

The Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) Program is a two-year program which provides clinical and didactic education in the field. Upon graduation the student receives an associate of applied science degree. The program is designed to prepare the student to take the American Society of Clinical Pathologist (ASCP) examination for medical laboratory technicians after graduation. This examination certifies the applicant as a registered medical laboratory technician, MLT (ASCP).

The Nursing Assistant Certificate of Proficiency provides the student the knowledge and skills training to successfully complete requirements to be eligible to take the Certified Nursing Assistant Examination to become a CNA in Arkansas. This program will prepare you for state certification as a Nursing Assistant in Arkansas.

The curriculum includes assisting residents with dressing, ambulation, feeding, bathing, toileting, perineal and oral care. It also covers basic range of motion exercises and restorative care.

Certified Nursing Assistants work in numerous settings in the health care field, including but not limited to long term care facilities, assisted living facilities, hospitals, clinic and doctor’s offices. They work under the supervision of medical staff such as physicians and registered nurses.

The Phlebotomy Technician Certificate of Proficiency introduces the student to basic laboratory techniques and prepares students to perform entry level tasks in a laboratory setting and to perform venipunctures and dermal punctures. This program provides excellent preparation for other Allied Health programs and is beneficial to individuals currently employed in the Allied Health profession or currently enrolled in another Allied Health program. Upon completion of the required courses, the student is eligible to take the Phlebotomy Certificate Examination offered by the American Society of Clinical Pathology, PBT (ASCP). Students must be 18 years or older in order to enroll in the phlebotomy practicum as well as to be certified as a phlebotomy technician.

The certificate program admits students twice a year: April 15 (application deadline) for an August start, and Oct. 15 (application deadline) for a January start. Classroom instruction is coordinated with clinical experience in the nursing care of patients at the local hospital and nursing homes. Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses. The PN program is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and traditionally has a 100 percent pass rate on the NCLEX-PN. The PN program also is ranked second in Arkansas by www.practicalnursing.org.

The Radiologic Technology Program is a two-year program providing clinical and didactical education in the field. Upon graduation, the student will receive an Associate of Applied Science degree, as well as eligibility to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Examination for Radiographers. This examination certifies the applicant as a Registered Technologist, RT (R), ARRT.

The radiographer is an important member of the health care team, working closely with the radiologists and physicians and other health care team members. The patient is always the number one concern.

Surgical technologists are health professionals who are an integral part of the team of medical practitioners providing surgical care to patients in a variety of settings.

This individual works under the supervision of a surgeon to ensure that the operating room environment is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.

A surgical technologist possesses expertise in the theory and application of sterile and aseptic technique and combines the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures and implementation tools and technologies to facilitate a physician’s performance of invasive therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.

North Arkansas College’s Surgical Technology Program prepares graduates to function in the operating room as members of the surgical team in delivering patient care and assuming appropriate responsibilities before, during, and after surgery. The curriculum combines classroom and laboratory instruction with actual surgical suite experience. Successful completion of the program prepares the graduate to write the National Certification Examination to become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), which is a requirement for graduation from the program.

Surgical technologists are health professionals who are an integral part of the team of medical practitioners providing surgical care to patients in a variety of settings.

This individual works under the supervision of a surgeon to ensure that the operating room environment is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.

A surgical technologist possesses expertise in the theory and application of sterile and aseptic technique and combines the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures and implementation tools and technologies to facilitate a physician’s performance of invasive therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.

The Associate of Applied Science in Automation and Systems Integration Technology is designed to prepare students for a career in the varied fields that require highly-skilled technicians to install, maintain, and repair the technology intensive electronic equipment used in business and industry today. Positions that require this level of skill are as unique as the business or industry involved. These positions have many different titles including Automation Technician, Maintenance Technician, and Industrial Electrician. The salaries for these positions remain high and the demand continues to grow. Entry level Technician positions can grow to lifelong careers in business and industrial management. Regardless of the job title, the primary responsibilities of these positions are to keep the highly technical and computerized machines of business and industry working productively. Some of these positions see routine challenges while other industries provide constantly varying opportunities.

This program provides two tracks or emphases to an Associate of Applied Science degree. The traditional track, the Emphasis in Electronics, starts with basic electronics theory and principles, schematic diagram interpretation, and use of basic test equipment. This is followed by the detailed exploration of the operation of electronic devices and circuits during the first year of the program. The second year expands to include hands-on troubleshooting, programming and operation of industrial equipment like microcontrollers, programmable logic controllers (PLC), drive systems, and robotics. The goal of this track is to prepare a student to develop into a technician with very strong hardware and software skills.

The Electronics Technology Technical Certificate is a milestone toward the AAS degree with an Emphasis in Electronics. It indicates the student has demonstrated proficiency in the basic electronics foundational courses and will be prepared to continue into the application and troubleshooting courses in the second year.

The Electronics Technology Certificate of Proficiency is the first step toward the AAS degree with an Emphasis in Electronics. It includes courses that will introduce a student to electronic principles and instrumentation as well as some of the ways technology is used in manufacturing process.

The Associate of Applied Science in Automation and Systems Integration Technology is designed to prepare students for a career in the varied fields that require highly-skilled technicians to install, maintain, and repair the technology intensive electronic equipment used in business and industry today. Positions that require this level of skill are as unique as the business or industry involved. These positions have many different titles including Automation Technician, Maintenance Technician, and Industrial Electrician. The salaries for these positions remain high and the demand continues to grow. Entry level Technician positions can grow to lifelong careers in business and industrial management. Regardless of the job title, the primary responsibilities of these positions are to keep the highly technical and computerized machines of business and industry working productively. Some of these positions see routine challenges while other industries provide constantly varying opportunities.

This program provides two tracks or emphases to an Associate of Applied Science degree. The traditional track, the Emphasis in Electronics, starts with basic electronics theory and principles, schematic diagram interpretation, and use of basic test equipment. This is followed by the detailed exploration of the operation of electronic devices and circuits during the first year of the program. The second year expands to include hands-on troubleshooting, programming and operation of industrial equipment like microcontrollers, programmable logic controllers (PLC), drive systems, and robotics. The goal of this track is to prepare a student to develop into a technician with very strong hardware and software skills.

The Manufacturing Technology Technical Certificate is designed to provide training necessary to obtain a position in the Machine Tool Technology Industry. Students will learn safety in the work place, the basics of blueprint reading, technical math skills, G and M Code interpretation, computer numeric controlled (CNC) machinery set up and operation, machine tool routine maintenance, decision making and problem solving skills and managing a career in the manufacturing technology industry. In addition, students practice job planning and management, quality and inspection, process adjustment and improvement, technical communication, properties of metals and computer programs related to machining. Students completing this degree are eligible to take NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) certifications which are desired by industry employers.

The Manufacturing Technology Certificate of Proficiency is designed to provide training necessary to obtain an entry level position in the Machine Tool Technology Industry. Students will learn safety in the work place, the basics of blueprint reading, basic technical math skills, manual M and G code writing, computer numeric controlled (CNC) machinery set up and operation, machine tool routine maintenance, decision making and problem solving skills and managing a career in the manufacturing technology industry. This course is stackable with courses offered in the next semester allowing completion of a technical certificate.

The Automotive Service Technology (AST) Program, based on the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) curriculum developed by the National Automotive Technical Education Foundation (NATEF), prepares students for careers in the automotive service industry. Students concentrate on seven major areas of automotive service with emphasis on preparation for the associated ASE Certification examinations. Additionally, students learn proper shop management procedures through extensive lab assignments in the AST Department’s live shop. The certificate can be used as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology. Students are strongly encouraged to purchase a basic set of tools after the first semester in the AST program. Almost all dealerships and independent repair facilities require technicians to have their own tools and are reluctant to hire technicians who do not. A number of tool manufacturers (Snap On, SK, MAC, etc.) provide significant educational discounts to students. Information on these discount purchase programs is available from AST program instructors.

The Certificate of Proficiency in Gas Engine Repair and Brake Technology emphasizes troubleshooting techniques in a step by step procedure throughout the program of study. Students will demonstrate procedures in the troubleshooting and maintenance of gasoline engines and brake systems. Safe removal and reinstallation procedures for clutch, transmission and drivetrains are emphasized. Courses in this certificate can be applied towards the Technical Certificate in AST or as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology.

The Collision Repair Technology Certificate, based on the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) curriculum developed by the National Automotive Technical Education Foundation (NATEF), prepares students for careers in the collision repair industry. Students learn to use hand and power tools to prepare and finish paint-damaged surfaces, repair and replace metal, glass and electrical components, straighten and repair damaged frames, use modern collision estimating and parts look up software and perform basic electrical/electronic troubleshooting and repair of the complex systems in today’s automobiles. The Certificate can be used as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology.

The Collision Repair Technology Certificate of Proficiency quickly prepares the student for entry level positions in Collision Repair Technology. The CRT Certificate of Proficiency may be applied towards the Technical Certificate in CRT or as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology.

The Truck Driving Certificate of Proficiency provides students the knowledge and skills training to successfully complete requirements for the Arkansas Class A Commercial Driving License (CDL). The program is five weeks of classroom time and 10 weeks of an internship swith the company of a student's choice. Students must maintain a 75-percent average for all portions of the course. Overall program objectives are:

To train drivers to be competent in the safe operation of a truck for hire or in private business.
To teach students federal, state, and local laws relating to safe operation of commercial trucks
To teach students portions of the Interstate Commerce Act that pertain to the truck driving profession
To train students in all non-driving activities required by the trucking industry
To teach students the importance of employee-employer relationships relating to job security and customer service.

The Associate of Science in Business Degree is for the student who plans to major in business and transfer to a four-year institution. Course work totaling 62 hours is required for the A.S. in Business degree. The curriculum requires a demonstration of competency in communications (oral and written) and mathematics and a mastery of skills and knowledge against specified performance standards in specific areas or disciplines. Remedial/developmental education courses are used for placement purposes only and cannot be used to fulfill degree requirements. Students planning to transfer should work closely with a North Arkansas College advisor to follow the prescribed selection of courses and other requirements, needed for transfer into a bachelor’s program.

The Office Management Certificate Program prepares students for careers in clerical, general secretarial and administrative assistant careers. Students will learn to operate computers and other office machines, become proficient with common business software, and develop good work and organizational habits. This program emphasizes the development of personal attitudes and traits that enable students to work harmoniously with employers and co-workers. The certificate can be applied toward the AAS in Office Management or to satisfy one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology.

The success of a business often depends on the efficient management of the flow of goods across the global marketplace -a process that grows increasingly complex The Logistics and Supply Chain Certificate equips students to handle this complexity by combining logistics and operations management training and provides a practical understanding of procurement, operations, and logistics. The certificate can be applied toward the AAS in Logistics and Supply Chain or to satisfy one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS Degree in General Technology.

The success of a business often depends on the efficient management of the flow of goods across the global marketplace - a process that grows increasingly complex. This degree equips students to handle this complexity by combining logistics and operations management training and provides a practical understanding of procurement, operations, and logistics.

The Certification Welding Certificate of Proficiency documents advanced welding skills demonstrated by students in achieving industry standard welding certifications. Courses in this certificate can be used as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS degree in General Technology.

The Certificate of Proficiency in Gas Metal Arc Welding provides concentrated training to develop advanced skill techniques in MIG and Flux Core Welding. Students will also perform inspection on equipment (drive rollers, contact tips, and gauges) and accessories (clothing, hand tools, and base metal) on a daily basis to ensure safe operation techniques. Courses in this certificate can be applied towards the Technical Certificate in Welding or as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology.

The Certificate of Proficiency in Shielded Metal Arc Welding emphasizes advanced techniques in MIG and Flux Core Welding. Proper operation of FCAW and GMAW equipment will be emphasized. Courses in this certificate can be applied towards the Technical Certificate in Welding or as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology.

The Welding Certificate of Proficiency provides concentrated training to develop welding skills as expeditiously as possible. Only welding courses are included in the certificate. Courses in this certificate can be applied towards the Technical Certificate in Welding or as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology.

The Welding Technology Certificate provides state-of-the-art training on common welding processes (Shielded Metal Arc [SMAW], Metal Inert Gas [MIG], Tungsten Inert Gas [TIG], oxy-acetylene and plasma cutting) and extensive skill building in each welding position. Additionally, American Welding Society (AWS) Certification for structural plate and pressure pipe is available. The certificate may be used as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology.

The Construction Equipment Operation Certificate teaches students how to properly operate and maintain heavy equipment used to excavate and move earth as part of the construction industry. Students spend the majority of class time operating equipment on job sites located within Northark’s service area to develop the skills needed for success. The certificate can be used as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology and is frequently combined with the Certificate of Proficiency in Truck Driving to allow students to work for employers who required employees to hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Students use Northark’s heavy equipment including bulldozers, backhoes, excavator, an earth mover, grader, dump truck and semi-truck to work on projects in the community.

The Construction Technology Certificate provides students with current skills in residential and commercial construction with emphasis on green building techniques and materials. National building, electrical and plumbing codes are covered in each subject area to prepare students for the Arkansas General Contractors licensing examination. Courses are also offered in Energy Audit and Building Analysis to prepare students for jobs in the energy conservation sector. Internships are available for students interested in improving their technical skills and making contacts within the industry. This certificate may be combined with another area of technical specialization to satisfy requirements for the AAS in General Technology. Construction Technology training is accredited with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

The Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Technical Certificate prepares students for careers in the maintenance and installation of residential and commercial HVAC systems. The one-year program prepares students for the American Refrigeration Institute Certification Examination that students must pass to become licensed technicians. The certificate may be used as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology. HVAC internships are available for students interested in improving their technical skills and making contacts within the HVAC industry. HVAC 1001 may be repeated up to three times for credit.

The Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Certificate of Proficiency quickly prepares students for entry-level positions in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. The HVAC certificate of proficiency may be applied towards the technical certificate in HVAC or as one of the technical disciplines required for the AAS in General Technology. HVAC internships are available for students interested in improving their technical skills and making contacts within the HVAC industry.

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Criminal Justice is a two-year degree program designed to lead directly to employment, or career advancement, in the field of criminal justice. Typical careers include law enforcement, probation officer, corrections officer or even social work.

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Criminal Justice is a two-year degree program designed to lead directly to employment, or career advancement, in the field of criminal justice. Typical careers include law enforcement, probation officer, corrections officer or even social work.

EMTs are a critical component of the ambulance team, providing care in patient assessment, treatments, packaging and disentanglement.
The emergency medical technician certificate of proficiency provides entry-level skills for employment by an Emergency Medical Service provider. The student should be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or GED and must have a current AHA Health Care Provider CPR Card. Students who complete EMS 1105 and EMS 1102 are eligible to challenge National Registry and State Exam. The certificate of proficiency can be applied towards the paramedic technical certificate or the AAS-Paramedic.

The classes consist of not only lecture time but also clinical work at a hospital emergency room and ambulance ride time. The student will have flexibility to schedule their emergency room and ambulance rotation. Each student must complete 24 hours in the emergency room with multiple patient contact. The ambulance rotation will include 24 hours ride time and a minimum of six patient contacts.

The Paramedic Certificate at North Arkansas College offers a one-year technical certificate which produces paramedics for advanced hospital care and transportation. This program meets and exceeds the current national DOT standards and curriculum. Graduates are eligible to take the state and national registry tests. Students train in area hospitals as well as on Arkansas paramedic level ambulances.

The Associate of Applied Science Paramedic Degree at Northark is a 2-year program designed to produce Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedics for advanced hospital care and transportation. This program meets and exceeds National DOT Standards and curriculum. Graduates are eligible to take the State and National Registry Tests. The program also provides an opportunity for certified Paramedics to obtain an Associate Degree in Emergency Medical Services.

The Technical Certificate in Digital Media will provide a completion point after two semesters for students working toward and AAS in Information Technology with an emphasis in Digital Media. This certificate will provide skills that can lead to an entry level job in the digital media field.

The Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology, Emphasis in Digital Media prepares students for careers in digital media, including print, web and video formats. The program combines strong technical preparation in current graphical software applications with courses that enhance the student’s creative talents. In this track, students have a choice to specialize in either graphic or web design. Certifications include Adobe Certified Expert (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Flash, Dreamweaver), Apple Certified Professional Final Cut Pro 6 and Adobe Certified Associate (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Flash, Dreamweaver).