Volunteer State Community College

The one-semester Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) Technical Certificate program is the required course of studies designed to prepare students for advanced positions as professional medical care providers in a pre-hospital setting such as an ambulance service. These are prerequisite courses required by the State of Tennessee EMS rules and regulations for persons considering entry into the Paramedic Technical Certificate program. The AEMT duties include the recognition, assessment, and management of medical, trauma, and environmental emergencies under the direction of the medical control physician or medical director. The courses follow the current National Emergency Medical Services Education Standards. Students who successfully complete the course work and clinical components of the program are eligible for the Tennessee Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) Licensing Examination. The program has an application and selection process. To be admitted to the program, students MUST be 18 years old, and submit an acceptable background check, a "passing" drug screen, and acceptable placement scores or completion of all Learning Support competencies in Reading. Students should be physically able to perform heavy lifting or strenuous activity for extended periods and must demonstrate the ability to perform these tasks during classroom and clinical periods. Students must have successfully completed the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program or have a current Tennessee EMT license prior to enrollment in the AEMT program.

The one-semester Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Technical Certificate program is the required course of studies designed to prepare students for entry-level positions as professional medical care providers in a pre-hospital setting. These are prerequisite courses required by the State of Tennessee EMS rules and regulations for persons considering entry into the Advanced Emergency Medical Technician Technical Certificate program. EMT duties include the recognition, assessment, and management of medical, trauma, and environmental emergencies under the direction of the medical control physician or medical director. The courses follow the National Emergency Medical Services Education Standards. Students who successfully complete the course work and clinical components of the program are eligible for the Tennessee EMT Licensing Examination. The program is open to all students meeting admission requirements for the College based on the admission or readmission status the applicant is seeking. To be admitted to the program students MUST be 18 years old and submit an acceptable background check, a "passing" drug screen, and acceptable placement scores or completion of all Learning Support competencies in Reading. Students should be physically able to perform heavy lifting or strenuous activity for extended periods of time and must demonstrate the ability to perform these tasks during classroom and clinical periods.

The College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree as a career ladder for persons who have successfully completed their Paramedic program of study. A total of 36 hours from the Paramedic Technical certificate may be applied to the required degree hours. This degree is designed to assist Health Sciences workers with their general and continuing education. For more information refer to the Health Sciences Associate of Applied Science Degrees section in the catalog. Specific core credits may be earned by current enrollment in appropriate health sciences courses. In addition to the 15 credit hours of General Education core courses currently required for an A.A.S degree, students will complete 3 required courses and 2 elective courses from those listed in the institution's catalog.

The Paramedic Technical Certificate Program is designed to prepare competent entry level graduates in emergency medical care to serve in emergency care settings such as an ambulance service. Using the most current National Emergency Medical Services Education Standards, discussions include the application of advanced patient assessment, problem recognition, and advanced treatment modalities for medical, trauma, and environmental emergencies. Clinical exposures in local hospitals and EMS Services assure appropriate experience in dealing with emergencies for all age groups including pediatrics and geriatrics.

The Criminal Justice Technical Certificate is a multi-disciplinary program offering students a competitive edge when seeking employment for entry level positions in criminal justice field. Students completing the certificate may apply to coursework toward the AAS or AS/AA degree in Criminal Justice.

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree is for students wanting to complete an associate degree and find employment after graduation, with no intention of transferring to a four-year university or college. The AAS is a multi-disciplinary degree program with courses in criminal law, investigation, corrections, terrorism, policing, and report writing; preparing students for entry level careers in the criminal justice field. Fast track options available.

The Criminal Justice Technical Certificate is a multi-disciplinary program offering students a competitive edge when seeking employment for entry level positions in criminal justice field. Students completing the certificate may apply to coursework toward the AAS or AS/AA degree in Criminal Justice.

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree is for students wanting to complete an associate degree and find employment after graduation, with no intention of transferring to a four-year university or college. The AAS is a multi-disciplinary degree program with courses in criminal law, investigation, corrections, terrorism, policing, and report writing; preparing students for entry level careers in the criminal justice field. Fast track options available.

The Criminal Justice Technical Certificate is a multi-disciplinary program offering students a competitive edge when seeking employment for entry level positions in criminal justice field. Students completing the certificate may apply to coursework toward the AAS or AS/AA degree in Criminal Justice.

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree is for students wanting to complete an associate degree and find employment after graduation, with no intention of transferring to a four-year university or college. The AAS is a multi-disciplinary degree program with courses in criminal law, investigation, corrections, terrorism, policing, and report writing; preparing students for entry level careers in the criminal justice field. Fast track options available.

This technical certificate program prepares the student for employment in the field of child care and early education. Students who receive CDA (Child Development Associate) Credential through TECTA (Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance) are given an opportunity to strengthen their skills and knowledge in curriculum development for young children and receive necessary training for CDA renewal.

This technical certificate program is designed to prepare students in practical firefighting operations and fire service management. The emphasis in the curriculum is on history and theory, used when appropriate, to assist firefighters to cope with current problems in the field.

The Department of Communication offers several degree programs. Communication is the study of human interaction in interpersonal, group and public settings. The Associate of Science in Journalism is a two-year program for students planning to continue their education to earn a bachelor's degree in journalism or related fields. Below are a few examples of possible careers for those with a degree in Journalism and the associated salary information.

Communication: Radio/TV provides a training facility for students to learn hands-on in a Radio or TV station. The Associate of Art and Associate of Science in Communication: Radio/TV is a two-year program for students planning to continue their education to earn a bachelor's degree in Radio/TV or related fields. Below are a few examples of possible careers for those with a degree in Communication: Radio/TV, and the associated salary information.

The Cyber Defense Concentration will focus on topics in cyber security and digital forensics. The students will learn how to fortify computer networks in order to prevent security breaches from cyber terrorists or other intruders. In addition, students will learn how to recover data using digital forensics techniques. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing within a hands-on lab environment along with real world internship experiences. Required courses are: Digital Forensics, Network Security and Principles of Information Assurance.

Students in the Networking Concentration will complete coursework and hands-on experiences in planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of networks of different sizes. In addition to networking skills, students will also complete Computer Science coursework in security, operating systems, server management, and programming, in combination with other technology courses. Certifications applicable to this concentration may include Network+, A+, and Cisco CCNA, among others. Required courses are A+ Hardware & Software, Windows Server Administration and Network Security.

This concentration is a preparation for a career as a programmer or software engineer. Emphasis is placed on issues related to knowing how to use the features of object programming languages like java, the design and implementation of classes and objects, the process of developing and maintaining software. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing along with real world internship experiences. This concentration may include preparation for the Oracle certified Associate (Java Programmer Certification). Required courses are Programming II OR Computer Science II, and one other approved geographically appropriate Programming course.

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Information Technology prepares students for positions in the workplace through the use of various systems, applications, languages and products. The program consists of a common core of General Education and Computer Information Technology major core courses, combined with subject-specific courses designed to address skills within the concentration area. These subject-specific courses focus on those skill-sets identified by employers as essential in today's workplace and, where appropriate, will prepare students for industry-recognized certification examinations. The concentrations are designed to ensure that students have the proper experience, training, and skills to begin work in the chosen field upon successful completion of the chosen program of study.

Computer Science spans the broad range from theory through programming to cutting-edge development of computing solutions. Computer science offers a foundation that permits graduates to adapt to new technologies and new ideas. The work of computer scientists falls into three categories: 1.) designing and building software; 2.) developing effective ways to solve computing problesm such as storing information in databases, sending data over networks or providing new approaches to security problems; and 3.) devising new and better ways of using computers and addressing particular challenges in areas such as robotics, computer vision, or digital forensics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, more IT jobs are available in the United States today than at the height of the dot.com bubble and are expected to be ammong the fastest-growing occupations over the next decade. Computer science requires solid preparation and study in mathematics.

The Cyber Defense Concentration will focus on topics in cyber security and digital forensics. The students will learn how to fortify computer networks in order to prevent security breaches from cyber terrorists or other intruders. In addition, students will learn how to recover data using digital forensics techniques. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing within a hands-on lab environment along with real world internship experiences. Required courses are: Digital Forensics, Network Security and Principles of Information Assurance.

Students in the Networking Concentration will complete coursework and hands-on experiences in planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of networks of different sizes. In addition to networking skills, students will also complete Computer Science coursework in security, operating systems, server management, and programming, in combination with other technology courses. Certifications applicable to this concentration may include Network+, A+, and Cisco CCNA, among others. Required courses are A+ Hardware & Software, Windows Server Administration and Network Security.

This concentration is a preparation for a career as a programmer or software engineer. Emphasis is placed on issues related to knowing how to use the features of object programming languages like java, the design and implementation of classes and objects, the process of developing and maintaining software. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing along with real world internship experiences. This concentration may include preparation for the Oracle certified Associate (Java Programmer Certification). Required courses are Programming II OR Computer Science II, and one other approved geographically appropriate Programming course.

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Information Technology prepares students for positions in the workplace through the use of various systems, applications, languages and products. The program consists of a common core of General Education and Computer Information Technology major core courses, combined with subject-specific courses designed to address skills within the concentration area. These subject-specific courses focus on those skill-sets identified by employers as essential in today's workplace and, where appropriate, will prepare students for industry-recognized certification examinations. The concentrations are designed to ensure that students have the proper experience, training, and skills to begin work in the chosen field upon successful completion of the chosen program of study.

Computer Science spans the broad range from theory through programming to cutting-edge development of computing solutions. Computer science offers a foundation that permits graduates to adapt to new technologies and new ideas. The work of computer scientists falls into three categories: 1.) designing and building software; 2.) developing effective ways to solve computing problesm such as storing information in databases, sending data over networks or providing new approaches to security problems; and 3.) devising new and better ways of using computers and addressing particular challenges in areas such as robotics, computer vision, or digital forensics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, more IT jobs are available in the United States today than at the height of the dot.com bubble and are expected to be ammong the fastest-growing occupations over the next decade. Computer science requires solid preparation and study in mathematics.

The Cyber Defense Concentration will focus on topics in cyber security and digital forensics. The students will learn how to fortify computer networks in order to prevent security breaches from cyber terrorists or other intruders. In addition, students will learn how to recover data using digital forensics techniques. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing within a hands-on lab environment along with real world internship experiences. Required courses are: Digital Forensics, Network Security and Principles of Information Assurance.

Students in the Networking Concentration will complete coursework and hands-on experiences in planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of networks of different sizes. In addition to networking skills, students will also complete Computer Science coursework in security, operating systems, server management, and programming, in combination with other technology courses. Certifications applicable to this concentration may include Network+, A+, and Cisco CCNA, among others. Required courses are A+ Hardware & Software, Windows Server Administration and Network Security.

This concentration is a preparation for a career as a programmer or software engineer. Emphasis is placed on issues related to knowing how to use the features of object programming languages like java, the design and implementation of classes and objects, the process of developing and maintaining software. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing along with real world internship experiences. This concentration may include preparation for the Oracle certified Associate (Java Programmer Certification). Required courses are Programming II OR Computer Science II, and one other approved geographically appropriate Programming course.

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Information Technology prepares students for positions in the workplace through the use of various systems, applications, languages and products. The program consists of a common core of General Education and Computer Information Technology major core courses, combined with subject-specific courses designed to address skills within the concentration area. These subject-specific courses focus on those skill-sets identified by employers as essential in today's workplace and, where appropriate, will prepare students for industry-recognized certification examinations. The concentrations are designed to ensure that students have the proper experience, training, and skills to begin work in the chosen field upon successful completion of the chosen program of study.

The Cyber Defense Concentration will focus on topics in cyber security and digital forensics. The students will learn how to fortify computer networks in order to prevent security breaches from cyber terrorists or other intruders. In addition, students will learn how to recover data using digital forensics techniques. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing within a hands-on lab environment along with real world internship experiences. Required courses are: Digital Forensics, Network Security and Principles of Information Assurance.

Students in the Networking Concentration will complete coursework and hands-on experiences in planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of networks of different sizes. In addition to networking skills, students will also complete Computer Science coursework in security, operating systems, server management, and programming, in combination with other technology courses. Certifications applicable to this concentration may include Network+, A+, and Cisco CCNA, among others. Required courses are A+ Hardware & Software, Windows Server Administration and Network Security.

This concentration is a preparation for a career as a programmer or software engineer. Emphasis is placed on issues related to knowing how to use the features of object programming languages like java, the design and implementation of classes and objects, the process of developing and maintaining software. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing along with real world internship experiences. This concentration may include preparation for the Oracle certified Associate (Java Programmer Certification). Required courses are Programming II OR Computer Science II, and one other approved geographically appropriate Programming course.

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Information Technology prepares students for positions in the workplace through the use of various systems, applications, languages and products. The program consists of a common core of General Education and Computer Information Technology major core courses, combined with subject-specific courses designed to address skills within the concentration area. These subject-specific courses focus on those skill-sets identified by employers as essential in today's workplace and, where appropriate, will prepare students for industry-recognized certification examinations. The concentrations are designed to ensure that students have the proper experience, training, and skills to begin work in the chosen field upon successful completion of the chosen program of study.

Computer Science spans the broad range from theory through programming to cutting-edge development of computing solutions. Computer science offers a foundation that permits graduates to adapt to new technologies and new ideas. The work of computer scientists falls into three categories: 1.) designing and building software; 2.) developing effective ways to solve computing problesm such as storing information in databases, sending data over networks or providing new approaches to security problems; and 3.) devising new and better ways of using computers and addressing particular challenges in areas such as robotics, computer vision, or digital forensics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, more IT jobs are available in the United States today than at the height of the dot.com bubble and are expected to be ammong the fastest-growing occupations over the next decade. Computer science requires solid preparation and study in mathematics.

The Cyber Defense Concentration will focus on topics in cyber security and digital forensics. The students will learn how to fortify computer networks in order to prevent security breaches from cyber terrorists or other intruders. In addition, students will learn how to recover data using digital forensics techniques. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing within a hands-on lab environment along with real world internship experiences. Required courses are: Digital Forensics, Network Security and Principles of Information Assurance.

Students in the Networking Concentration will complete coursework and hands-on experiences in planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of networks of different sizes. In addition to networking skills, students will also complete Computer Science coursework in security, operating systems, server management, and programming, in combination with other technology courses. Certifications applicable to this concentration may include Network+, A+, and Cisco CCNA, among others. Required courses are A+ Hardware & Software, Windows Server Administration and Network Security.

This concentration is a preparation for a career as a programmer or software engineer. Emphasis is placed on issues related to knowing how to use the features of object programming languages like java, the design and implementation of classes and objects, the process of developing and maintaining software. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing along with real world internship experiences. This concentration may include preparation for the Oracle certified Associate (Java Programmer Certification). Required courses are Programming II OR Computer Science II, and one other approved geographically appropriate Programming course.

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Information Technology prepares students for positions in the workplace through the use of various systems, applications, languages and products. The program consists of a common core of General Education and Computer Information Technology major core courses, combined with subject-specific courses designed to address skills within the concentration area. These subject-specific courses focus on those skill-sets identified by employers as essential in today's workplace and, where appropriate, will prepare students for industry-recognized certification examinations. The concentrations are designed to ensure that students have the proper experience, training, and skills to begin work in the chosen field upon successful completion of the chosen program of study.

Computer Science spans the broad range from theory through programming to cutting-edge development of computing solutions. Computer science offers a foundation that permits graduates to adapt to new technologies and new ideas. The work of computer scientists falls into three categories: 1.) designing and building software; 2.) developing effective ways to solve computing problesm such as storing information in databases, sending data over networks or providing new approaches to security problems; and 3.) devising new and better ways of using computers and addressing particular challenges in areas such as robotics, computer vision, or digital forensics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, more IT jobs are available in the United States today than at the height of the dot.com bubble and are expected to be ammong the fastest-growing occupations over the next decade. Computer science requires solid preparation and study in mathematics.

The Cyber Defense Concentration will focus on topics in cyber security and digital forensics. The students will learn how to fortify computer networks in order to prevent security breaches from cyber terrorists or other intruders. In addition, students will learn how to recover data using digital forensics techniques. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing within a hands-on lab environment along with real world internship experiences. Required courses are: Digital Forensics, Network Security and Principles of Information Assurance.

Students in the Networking Concentration will complete coursework and hands-on experiences in planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of networks of different sizes. In addition to networking skills, students will also complete Computer Science coursework in security, operating systems, server management, and programming, in combination with other technology courses. Certifications applicable to this concentration may include Network+, A+, and Cisco CCNA, among others. Required courses are A+ Hardware & Software, Windows Server Administration and Network Security.

This concentration is a preparation for a career as a programmer or software engineer. Emphasis is placed on issues related to knowing how to use the features of object programming languages like java, the design and implementation of classes and objects, the process of developing and maintaining software. Students will also develop strong critical thinking skills and will learn by doing along with real world internship experiences. This concentration may include preparation for the Oracle certified Associate (Java Programmer Certification). Required courses are Programming II OR Computer Science II, and one other approved geographically appropriate Programming course.

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Information Technology prepares students for positions in the workplace through the use of various systems, applications, languages and products. The program consists of a common core of General Education and Computer Information Technology major core courses, combined with subject-specific courses designed to address skills within the concentration area. These subject-specific courses focus on those skill-sets identified by employers as essential in today's workplace and, where appropriate, will prepare students for industry-recognized certification examinations. The concentrations are designed to ensure that students have the proper experience, training, and skills to begin work in the chosen field upon successful completion of the chosen program of study.

This technical certificate program is one year (twelve months) and is composed of didactic and clinical instruction. It is designed and organized to promote the personal and professional growth of each student. The main objectives of the program are to prepare the student to function in the dental setting and to academically qualify for the Dental Assistant National Board certification examination and the Tennessee Board of Dentistry registry examination. The program in Dental Assisting is accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation, a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation and the United States Department of Education.

The College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree as a career ladder for persons who have successfully completed their program of study in Dental Assisting. A total of 36 hours from the certificate may be applied to the required degree hours. This degree is designed to assist Health Sciences workers with their general and continuing education. For more information refer to the Health Sciences Associate of Applied Science Degrees section in the catalog. Specific core credits may be earned by current enrollment in appropriate health sciences courses. In addition to the 15 credit hours of General Education core courses currently required for an A.A.S degree, students will complete 3 required courses and 2 elective courses from those listed in the institution's catalog.

The Diagnostic Medical Sonography technical certificate program is designed to prepare the student to become a diagnostic medical sonographer. Sonographers are skilled professionals who provide patient services using diagnostic ultrasound under the supervision of a physician. Upon completion of this competency based program, the student will be eligible to take multiple American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography certification board examinations. The program of study includes didactic, laboratory, and clinical training in the fields of acoustic principles and safety, as well as abdominal, obstetrical, gynecological, vascular, breast, and small parts sonography.

The Medical Assisting Program provides quality didactic and clinical education and instruction for multi-skilled health professionals specifically educated to work in ambulatory settings performing administrative and clinical duties. Duties of the medical assistant generally include, but are not limited to: recording case histories, vital signs, injections, EKG, lab testing, and assisting the doctor in the setup and performance of minor office surgeries. This program is pending accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

This technical certificate is designed to meet the needs of individuals currently working in health care or related fields who need to obtain or upgrade their coding skills for career advancement or certification. A thorough knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology is needed to pursue this certificate.The Medical Coding Technical Certificate is fully integrated into the Volunteer State Community College Associate of Applied Science degree in Health Information Management for those students who wish to continue their studies. Students obtaining the HIM degree after completing the Medical Coding Technical Certificate must update their coding knowledge prior to sitting for the national Registered Health Information Technology (RHIT) Exam. All courses in the Medical Coding Certificate apply toward the HIM degree requirements. This is a three semester certificate which only begins summer semester of each year. Courses must be taken in sequence.

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing prepares students for a career as a registered nurse. Nursing and pre-nursing education courses provide the student with the foundation for skills, attitudes, and knowledge for professional nursing. Graduates are prepared to provide holistic nursing care to persons from various cultures across the life span in a variety of healthcare delivery settings. Graduates will be eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for licensure as a Registered Nurse.

Physical therapist assistant (PTA) programs in Tennessee's state community college system are accredited two-year associate degree programs that prepare graduates to perform selected components of patient treatment and assessment under the direction and supervision of the physical therapist in an ethical, legal, safe, and effective manner. These PTA programs combine general education courses, physical therapy lecture and laboratory courses, and clinical education to produce competent, caring, quality oriented physical therapist assistants who are prepared for taking the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and for entering the field of physical therapy with the required knowledge, skills, and behaviors of an entry-level PTA.

The Radiologic Technology Program prepares students to become Radiologic Technologists (Radiographers). Radiographers work in a variety of Medical Imaging settings including hospitals, clinics, and physicians' offices. Medical Imaging represents the second largest Health Science profession in the nation.

This program prepares students to become Respiratory Therapists at the Advanced Practitioner level. Respiratory Therapists work under the supervision of a physician to assess, treat, and manage all patient populations who have cardiopulmonary-related issues. Therapists are typically employed within the hospital, clinic and home-care setting, and may also be employed within diagnostic labs with further training.

This technical certificate is a two semester program designed to prepare students to enter the workforce as animal handlers/veterinary assistants or laboratory animal caregivers. This certificate is the first step for many students to become Certified Assistant Laboratory Animal Technicians (ALAT) or Certified Veterinary Practice Managers (CVPM).

This two year program provides preparation and training in Veterinary Technology. Vol State has initial accreditation through the American Veterinary Medical Association Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (AVMA-CVTEA). Students graduating from this program are eligible to sit for the National Veterinary Technology Exam required for licensure in Tennessee. Admission to the program is limited and competitive. Applications for admission are due in the Fall for the Spring semester.

The certificate program is offered for students interested in employment as a technician in an integrated multidisciplinary environment. Instruction in mechatronics provides students with the knowledge and hands-on training in electronics, mechanics, and computers to work in a variety of industrial and manufacturing related businesses. The certificate offers opportunities for employment preparation and skills enhancement.

This career pathway provides the academic knowledge and practical experience necessary to prepare students for employment as a highly-skilled mechatronics technician. The concentration is specifically provided for students who are interested in working as a technician in an integrated multidisciplinary environment. Upon successful completion of the program, students will be afforded the opportunity to complete the Level 2 Certification Examination to become a Siemens Certified Mechatronics Systems Associate. This program is designed for students interested in getting into the workforce quickly with the technical skills employers demand.