Division of Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies

Transcription

1 An Introduction to the Admissions Process for HEALTH SCIENCE PROGRAMS Division of Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies at HILLSBOROUGH COMMUNITY COLLEGE

2 The provisions of the booklet are not to be regarded as an irrevocable contract between the student and the College or the Division of Health, Wellness and Sports Technologies. The College and the Division reserves the right to make and designate the effective date of changes in college policies and other regulations at any time such changes are considered to be desirable or necessary. Office of the Dean, Health, Wellness and Sports Technologies Hillsborough Community College 2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS HCC Vision and Mission Page 5 Introduction Page 6 Admission Checklists Page 10 Health Science Programs Open Enrollment or Limited Access Page 13 Program Costs Page 15 Selection Criteria Restricted Access Programs Page 17 Tips To Help You Succeed in the Admissions Process for Limited Access Health Sciences Programs Page 21 Acceptable Math Courses for Limited Access Programs Page 24 Students Applying from Other Institutions Page 25 Program Expectations of Students Page 28 Program Acceptance Restricted Access Programs Page 30 Program Information Page 34 Cardiovascular Technology Page 35 Counseling and Human Services Page 36 Counseling and Human Services Degree Page 38 Family Health and Support Worker ATD Page 39 Dental Assisting Page 40 Dental Hygiene Page 43 Diagnostic Medical Sonography Technology Page 46 Emergency Medical Services Page 50 Paramedic Page 52 EMT Basic Page 53 3

4 Nuclear Medicine Page 54 Nursing Page 57 Nursing Basic Day Page 60 Nursing Basic Evening/Saturday Page 61 Nursing Transition LPN to ADN Page 62 Nursing Transition Paramedic to ADN Page 63 Opticianry Vision Care Programs Page 64 Opticianry Degree Page 66 Optical Management Degree Page 67 Eye Care Technician Page 68 Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician Page 69 Visual Assessment-ATD Page 70 Radiation Therapy Page 71 Radiation Therapy Degree Page 73 Radiation Therapy Certificate Page 74 Radiography Page 75 Respiratory Care Page 78 Respiratory Care Degree Page 80 CRT Accelerated Articulated Credit Page 81 Sign Language Interpretation Page 82 Directory Page 85 4

5 Vision Hillsborough Community College will deliver education of the highest standards enabling a diverse community of life-long learners to achieve their maximum potential in a global society. Mission Hillsborough Community College, a public, comprehensive institution of higher education, empowers students to excel through its superior teaching and service in an innovative learning environment. Source: HCC Catalog

6 CAREERS FOR THE 21 ST CENTURY Introduction to the Health Sciences Programs at HCC Health and medical technology jobs are readily available today and the trend is expected to continue. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, health care is one of the fastest growing industries with employment opportunities increasing dramatically throughout this century. In a presentation to the State of Florida House Committee on Community Colleges and Workforce in February of 2005, critical shortages were identified in health care professions through the year According to an article provided by the Princeton Review and published by MSNBC September 6, 2006, the health care industry is responsible for 11 million jobs and that number will continue to grow. The U.S. Department of Labor projects that jobs in health care will increase 26 percent by 2008, which translates into 2.8 million new jobs. For those interested in a career in health care, the choices are unprecedented in the nation s history. There are several reasons for the increasing need for health sciences professionals. First, people are living longer; therefore, they require more ongoing and specialized medical treatment. Geriatric health care providers will be in demand in retirement communities, senior citizen centers, acute living facilities, home care settings, hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Florida has the highest percentage of elderly residents in the nation according to the FHA Nurse Staffing Issues in Florida Surveys, Expansion of new technology, organ transplantation, and genetic engineering will also continue the increase in the need for professionals in health care fields. Finally, availability of procedures outside of traditional hospital and office settings will greatly impact the industry as more people use outpatient clinics, surgery centers, HMOs, and mobile offices for treatment options. HCC s Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies Division provides health sciences programs that prepare students to meet the increasing demand for professionals in the health care fields! Programs, Degrees, and Certificates: Hillsborough Community College Division of Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies offers College Credit Certificates (CCC), Advanced Technology Diplomas (ATD), Post-Secondary Adult Vocational Certificates (PSAV); and Associate in Science (AS) and Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degrees. College Credit Certificates are offered in select health sciences fields such as Paramedic, and Radiation Therapy. A PSAV certificate is offered in Dental Assisting. Degrees are 6

7 offered in Counseling and Human Services, Dental Hygiene, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Nuclear Medicine, Opticianry and Optical Management, Radiation Therapy, Radiography, Registered Nursing, Respiratory Care, and Sign Language Interpretation. All of these programs are available at the Dale Mabry Campus. HCC s Plant City Campus offers Nursing Basic and EMT programs. In addition to these programs, the division provides Physical Education classes. Health Sciences students excel: Students in the health sciences programs receive an exceptional education experience that combines rigorous classroom and laboratory study with practicums in local hospitals, clinics, medical offices, and related treatment facilities. Graduates are able to sit for their professional license and certification examinations because the programs are nationally accredited and the College is regionally accredited (SACS). Job placement rates and starting salaries are high in health care fields. According to Community College Week Rankings June 19, 2006, HCC ranks 18 th nationally for the total number of Associate s Degrees conferred in Nursing. HCC ranks 20 th in the nation for the total number of Associate s Degrees confirmed for health professions. According to the Tampa Tribune Media Services April 2005, openings for social and human service assistants are expected to increase by 49 percent by Interested? Learn more. Apply! The purpose of this handbook is to give you information on the health science programs at HCC and to assist you in the admissions process for a health sciences program. There are checklists to help you be sure that your application is complete. If you have any interest in pursuing one of the health science programs, you must be willing to make a full time commitment to your studies. These programs require a full time commitment and flexibility. The hours and days required may change during the course of study. Each program requires rigorous study, volunteer commitments and extra work. Process: Interested students must follow a rigorous application procedure to be considered for most of the College s health sciences programs. This booklet will give you information on each program and its admissions criteria. Because of licensure requirements, students with a Certificate of Completion from high school should check with an advisor or counselor to make sure that they are eligible to enroll in a specific program of study. The College s Catalog is the official source of information. You may request a packet of information including an application be sent to you by calling (813) Also visit the College s website ( and the Division s website ( for more information. The Advising Guides were created by Student Services to assist students in fulfilling degree requirements for their chosen major. The Guides should be used in conjunction with the catalog and other College resources and are a supplement to the advising 7

8 process. To review the advising guide for a specific program, go to Select the type of degree, diploma or certificate that is awarded and from the list of programs, select the program of interest. All students should meet with an Academic Advisor or Counselor to discuss their academic plans. You may contact an advisor or counselor on any campus to discuss your situation and to get assistance in the application process. Don t delay. Many of these programs have courses that must be successfully completed (also known as prerequisite courses) before you can apply; have many more applicants than open slots; and have fixed deadlines to apply. To contact an advisor or counselor, you may telephone: Brandon Campus Dale Mabry Campus Plant City Campus Ybor City Campus Most classes are on the Dale Mabry Campus. There are Nursing and Emergency Medical Services classes on the Plant City Campus. You are invited to visit each campus electronically. Go to the College s home page ( and select Dale Mabry or Plant City. Equal Access/Equal Opportunity/Educational Equity: Hillsborough Community College is dedicated to providing equal opportunity in all of its programs and facilities, including those affiliated within the Division of Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies. HCC does not discriminate in the admission and treatment of students on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, marital status or any other bias. The College does not discriminate in the admission and treatment of students and shall make reasonable effort to assure that each student is protected from harassment or discrimination. Summary: Information contained in this packet is the most current available at the time of printing concerning the admission and selection of health sciences students. However, HCC reserves the right to change or amend these processes or procedures as is necessary and will strive to notify potential applicants. Students are encouraged to consult with an Academic Advisor or Counselor to ensure they are taking the correct prerequisite course(s) and meet all application criteria. This booklet is written to assist individuals in determining whether or not they have an interest in pursuing admission into the health sciences programs as well as how to apply and what is required to apply. However, it is not the definitive source of information on admissions. Your interest in Hillsborough Community College s Health Sciences Programs is appreciated. We look forward to receiving, reviewing your application, and welcoming you into the program you choose. 8

9 On behalf of the Program Managers, faculty and staff within the Division; and the Student Services staff including Counselors, Academic Advisors, Recruiters and Admissions staff; the Office of the Dean of Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies extend to you best wishes in pursuing your education and career goals. We welcome your questions and comments. Thank you for your interest! Office of the Dean Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies January

10 CHECKLIST Health Sciences Programs Are you ready to apply? Use this checklist to be sure! If you are an HCC student, a prospective HCC student, or a student from another institution, including a student currently enrolled in a health sciences program who wishes to transfer to the same program at HCC use the convenient checklists to make sure your application is complete and timely. HCC admissions: Submit an online HCC application. If you have not attended HCC previously, you must add the $20 application fee to your nursing or health science application fee of $53. In that case, submit a $73 dollar check or money order payable to HCC when you submit your Nursing or Health Science application. Health Sciences/Nursing application restricted admissions (All of the following criteria are required by some health science programs. Some health sciences programs may require some of the following. Check the requirement of each program that you have an interest in possibly pursuing): Health Sciences or Nursing application completed which must be printed from the health sciences website at $53.00 accompanying application Official high school transcript in sealed envelope mailed to Hillsborough Community College, Attention: Health Sciences Admissions, Dale Mabry Campus, P.O. Box 30030, Tampa, Florida If you have attended other colleges, universities, vocational or technical schools you must submit or have submitted an official transcript from each school. If you mail your transcript(s), include the original unopened envelope(s) and mail to Hillsborough Community College, Attention: Health Sciences Admissions, Dale Mabry Campus, P.O. Box 30030, Tampa, Florida Enclose a self addressed stamped post card to be notified of receipt Prerequisite courses completed prior to application deadline Placement tests completed within two (2) years of the date of application and achieved minimum score No convictions for specific crimes (see Program Acceptance Restricted Access Programs in this booklet for listing of convictions that prohibit admission) Complete Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) background check authorization form Meet requirements of articulation agreements 10

11 Copies of supporting documents such as certificates and licenses (if required) Be at least 18 years old by the first day of the start of the program Interview with Program Manager (Diagnostic Medical Sonography applicants only) Deliver complete package to HCC Dale Mabry Health Sciences Drop Box located on the 1 st floor of the Student Services Building or send by regular mail, making sure you allow plenty of time for it to be received by the deadline date Drug screen and physical examination may be required after contingent selection but before class begins. Did you keep a copy of all documents submitted? If you are currently enrolled in a health sciences program at another institution and wish to transfer to HCC and be enrolled in the same health sciences program: 1. You must meet all criteria and standards specified in the Transfer Student section of this manual. 2. You must make an appointment with the program manager and bring the following documents: Final official transcript of all college credits Course descriptions, module outlines and syllabi Letter from the Director/Dean (program administrator) of the transfer school stating that the student is/was in good standing 3. In addition to the process above, transfer students must: Submit an online HCC application. If you have not attended HCC previously, you must add the $20 application fee to your nursing or health science application fee of $53. In that case, submit a $73 dollar check or money order payable to HCC when you submit your Nursing or Health Science application. Official high school transcript in sealed envelope mailed to Hillsborough Community College, Attention: Health Sciences Admissions, Dale Mabry Campus, P.O. Box 30030, Tampa, Florida You must submit an official transcript from each school of higher education you have attended. If you mail your transcript(s), include the original unopened envelope(s) and mail to Hillsborough Community College, Attention: Health Sciences Admissions, Dale Mabry Campus, P.O. Box 30030, Tampa, Florida Health Sciences or Nursing application completed which must be printed from the health sciences website at Completed Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) authorization form $53.00 accompanying application Prerequisite courses completed If an applicant uses a CLEP score for one or more prerequisite courses, an original copy must be attached to the application. However, the applicant will be given credit for satisfying the prerequisite. 11

12 Placement tests completed within two (2) years of application and achieve minimum score (for specific program only) No convictions for specific crimes (see Program Acceptance Restricted Access Programs in this booklet for listing of convictions that prohibit admission) Meet requirements of articulation agreements Copies of supporting documents such as certificates and licenses (if required) Be at least 18 years old by the first day of the start of the program Deliver complete package to HCC Dale Mabry Health Sciences Drop Box located on the 1 st floor of the Student Services Building or send by regular mail on or before the deadline Did you keep a copy of all documents submitted? Drug screen and physical examination may be required after contingent selection but before class begins. HCC Dental Hygiene clinical 12

13 HEALTH SCIENCES PROGRAMS OPEN ENROLLMENT OR RESTRICTED ACCESS? What is the difference? Open enrollment: An open enrollment program requires the student to register for each course through the HCC web site or through telephone registration. The dates for registration are published in the College catalog, website and credit course schedule. A student may register for the course of his or her choice assuming there are no unpaid fees or loans; transcripts and/or other documents have been received; and the student is qualified to enroll. There are no additional application forms or special processing for open enrollment health sciences programs. A student who is qualified, registers early, and pays tuition can be reasonable sure of reserving their seat in the class if it is offered. Occasionally, a specific number of slots in a health sciences class may be restricted to applicants who are sponsored by a specific entity and there may be situations where an applicant has priority over other applicants based on his or her employment by a local community of interest. However, in all instances, applicants must meet minimum program standards. Within the health sciences at the time of the printing of this document, the open enrollment programs include all Counseling and Human Services programs, all Opticianry and Vision Care programs, the Emergency Medical Technician program and the Sign Language Interpretation Program. Documents required for open enrollment health sciences programs must be on file in the Office of Admissions and Records at the campus where the courses are offered. Restricted access: A program that is restricted access (also called limited access) is a program that requires the prospective student to apply for the program using a special application in addition to the HCC admissions application. The applications are available at the division s website ( Some of these programs have courses that must be taken before the applicant may apply; have specific deadlines for application; and have many more applicants than there are open slots for new students. There is additional application fees associated with restricted access programs and there is a background check, a drug screen and, depending upon the program, other requirements and prohibitions. A program may also require that its students be able to fulfill requirements identified in any articulation agreement. Occasionally, a specific number of slots in a health sciences class may be restricted to applicants who are sponsored by a specific entity and there may be situations where an applicant has priority over other applicants based on his or her employment by a local 13

14 community of interest. However, in all instances, applicants must meet minimum program standards. In HCC s health sciences division, the restricted access programs are Dental Assisting, Dental Hygiene, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Paramedic, Nuclear Medicine, Nursing, Radiation Therapy, Radiography and Respiratory Care. Applications for the restricted access health sciences programs are handled by the Health Sciences Admissions Office located on the Dale Mabry Campus, first floor of the Student Services Building. One type of enrollment verses another type of enrollment does not mean that a program is better than another. What is important in this process is that you determine what program(s) you wish to pursue and then to be sure that you have all of the information you need to make a decision and then have the information and tools you need to apply. And when you apply, you follow all of the procedures to ensure that your application is complete and received on or before the due date. If you have any questions concerning the process for admissions and what the procedures are for applying after reviewing the information in this handbook, please contact a counselor or advisor. HCC Respiratory Care students and instructor 14

15 PROGRAM COSTS Tuition: Health sciences credit classes cost per hour are the same as any other HCC credit course with the exception of Dental Assisting. Dental Assisting is a Post- Secondary Adult Vocational (PSAV) program and the cost for PSAV classes is calculated differently from credit courses. For specific information on the credits for each course and the tuition costs, refer to the current College catalog. The catalog is available online at the College s website: Tuition is paid each term, and the amount of tuition owed is a total of the number of credit hours that the student is enrolled in for that term times the hourly tuition cost. The exception is Dental Assisting and the costs for this program are calculated on a clock hour formula. Other required costs: Books, uniforms, laboratory and other fees are additional expenses that are required and are paid by the student. Books and fees occur each term. These costs are significant. Financial aid: Federal, State and institutional financial aid is available for qualified students. Applicants should contact their campus Financial Aid Office for the appropriate forms and processing procedures. Interested students may also access this information at Scholarships: Scholarships are another option to explore. Hospitals and health care institutions, local and national employers, professional organizations, and private individuals have created scholarships through foundations including the HCC Foundation to assist students in health sciences programs. Contact an HCC Counselor for further information on these opportunities. Wings: The Wings Program is a special services program designed and administered to assist AS, AAS, and Certificate Program students who are receiving a Pell Grant. Assistance may include textbook vouchers, partial tuition and partial childcare assistance. Contact the Wings Coordinator at for further information. 15

16 Estimate of Program Costs for Specific Programs In the Division of Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies The following is an estimate of costs to the students for each program PROGRAM Counseling and Human Services Dental Assisting Dental Hygiene Diagnostic Medical Sonography Emergency Medical Services: AAS Degree TUITION (Including all courses except prep, if needed) BOOKS (Including all courses, except prep, if needed) LAB FEES $ $2250 $75 $100 UNIFORMS, NAME BADGE, INSTRUMENTS, CPR, PHYSICAL EXAM, IMMUNIZATIONS, Misc. $ $500 $800 $100 $400 CERTIFICATION EXAMS, LICENSE FEES $ $1320 $1000 $ (uniforms, physical, $1090 CPR, instruments, supplies) $ $1400 $280 $300-uniforms Board Cert.-$600 $ (only non- EMT and Paramedic courses) EMT: Uniform-$45 Stethoscope-$25 Immunization/physical-$150 EMT-CCC Paramedic-CCC Nuclear Medicine Nursing: Basic Transitional Optical Man. AAS $ $200 $ 50 Paramedic: Uniform-$60 $ $450 $450 Stethoscope-$25 Immunization/physical-$150 $5487 $1650 $140 $550 (uniforms, CPR radiation badges, physical) $ $ $ $2200 $2200 $ $750 $600 $550 (includes $105 lab kit) $550 (includes $105 lab kit) $ 75 $ 85 Natl. Board and St. license $260 $400 $400 Opticianry AAS ATC-Visual Assess CCC-Eye Care Tech CCC-Ophth. Lab Radiation Therapy (AS) Radiation Therapy Certificate $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $300 $30 distance learning fee for each online course $ $2200 $250 $550 (uniforms, CPR, radiation badge, physical) $ $1100 $165 $550 (uniforms, CPR, radiation badge, physical) Radiography $ $2550 $175 Uniforms, radiation badge, lead markers, physical-$550 Respiratory Care $ $2400 $550 $1150 (scrubs, CPR, stethoscope, scissors, $ $2400 $550 physical, ins., cert. and pin) Respiratory Care- Tran Sign Language Interpretation Costs Estimated for Academic Year-The tuition (based on in-state costs), fees, and expenses listed are only estimates and subject to change ***Transportation, Parking, and Insurance (if applicable) are expenses that are the responsibility of the student. ***The HCC application fee is $20, The Nursing or Health Science application Fee is $53, the drug test is $35, Experiential Credit is $15 (if applicable), the application for degree is $10, and a transcript fee is $5. 16 Natl. Certs-$300 St. License-$850 License Fee-$155 ARRT Exam-$150 Fl. License- $140 ARRT Exam-$150 Fl. License- $140 $410 $ $1733 $330 $85-fingerprinting if needed $160 NBRC exam, and Fl. License $355 optional-registry exam $390

17 SELECTION CRITERIA RESTRICTED ACCESS PROGRAMS For restricted access programs, after the deadline for application has passed, the Health Sciences Admissions and Appeals Committee will meet to review the ranking of applicants with complete applications based on their prerequisites grade point average (GPA). If there are not a sufficient number of qualified students to fill class seats, the Health Sciences Admissions and Appeals Committee will apply the same process to applications received after the deadline date (if there is a deadline date) until all vacant slots in each program are filled or there are no more qualified applicants. If there are not enough qualified applicants for a class, the class may be cancelled. Occasionally, a specific health sciences program class is limited to applicants sponsored by a specific entity. It is also possible that a specific number of slots in a program class may be limited to applicants who are sponsored by a specific entity. For example, a community interest group such as the Tampa Fire Department can request a specific number of spaces in a class be reserved for sponsored applicants. Also, there may be situations where an applicant has priority over other applicants based on his or her employment, for example an EMT/firefighter employed by a local community of interest. However, in all instances, applicants must meet minimum program standards. Ranking by grade point average: Applicants are ranked by grade point average, which is calculated using the grades of the prerequisite courses required for admission to a particular Health Sciences Program. The calculation will include prerequisite grades earned from other institutions. If an applicant has completed a required course with a Pass/Fail grade, then there will be no grade used for that course in the calculation; however, the applicant will have satisfied the requirement. Selections are made based on the highest grade point averages (GPA) and the number of seats available in each individual program. In the event there are fewer seats remaining than the number of applicants with identical GPAs, the following criteria are used to determine program admittance: 1. Applicants with the highest college cumulative grade point average in all courses taken excluding preparatory course work. 2. If students have identical college cumulative GPAs, then preference will be given to the student who has earned more total college credits. 3. Applicants for admissions consideration into the Paramedic Program will have their GPA calculations made from the grades earned in the EMT-B coursework. If there are no grades available for the EMT-B coursework, selection will be made based upon the GPA of other college level courses taken which must equal or exceed six (6) credits. If the program does not require prerequisite courses, applicants will be ranked based on their overall grade point average excluding preparatory course work. Selections will be 17

18 made based on the highest overall grade point averages and the number of seats available in each individual program. If two or more students have identical college cumulative GPAs, then preference will be given to the student who has earned more total college credits. Alternates are designated for each program in the event students that are selected decline. Alternates are determined in the same manner as selects to the program. If an applicant uses a CLEP score for one or more prerequisite course, the GPA will be calculated on the actual grades earned in classes, and total college credits will be calculated on actual college classes. An original copy must be attached to the application. However, the applicant will be given credit for satisfying the prerequisite. Repeating/withdrawing from prerequisite courses: Applicants may have 2 attempts per prerequisite course taken after 1997 on their academic record without being penalized. After two attempts, penalties are as follows: Minus.2 from the prerequisite GPA for each course attempted a 3 rd time Minus.6 from the prerequisite GPA for each course attempted a 4 th time Minus 1.2 from the prerequisite GPA for each course attempted a 5 th time Minus 2.4 from the prerequisite GPA for each course attempted a 6 th time Withdrawals, academic withdrawals and other non-calculated grades are considered attempts: The State of Florida statute prohibits HCC from allowing a student to retake a course when the student has taken the course previously and received a C or higher grade. In addition, HCC will transfer in a course from another institution, but if the student has taken that course before and received a grade of C or higher, the more recent grade will not be used in any grade point calculation. (Specific Authority (1) FS; Law Implemented (9) FS. History New , Amended , , and Through the Florida Department of Education, Community Colleges; Withdrawal and Forgiveness Rule 6A ) Health/medical insurance: The College, Division, or Program does not provide health and medical insurance for students. The student is responsible for all costs associated with any medical procedure and for maintaining health and medical insurance while enrolled in the program. Some clinical education settings will require that all students attending the facility provide proof of medical insurance. All students are strongly encouraged to check their own personal health insurance policy to ensure coverage for illness or injury resulting from clinical participation. CPR Certification: Admission to certain health sciences programs requires the applicant to provide proof of a two (2) year, health care worker cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification from an agency that provides a two-year certification, such as the American Heart Association s BLS Healthcare Provider course, Hillsborough Community College s Continuing Education CPR for Healthcare Workers course, or , or an equivalent course. Online CPR courses are not accepted. Health sciences students are required to provide proof of successful 18

19 certification in CPR if requested as a part of the admissions process. Information concerning the type of certification and the deadline for submitting proof will be provided during New Student Program Orientation if not required as a part of the application. High School diploma: Applicants who hold a Certificate of Completion are not eligible for programs with licensure requirements that include a high school diploma (Florida DOE Memo 03-27, House Bill 23-B). International students: International students must be admitted into Hillsborough Community College (HCC) prior to applying for a restricted access health sciences program. Acceptance to HCC includes receipt, appropriate translation and evaluation of foreign transcripts. Contact the Admissions, Registration and Records Office at any HCC campus for information on the HCC International Student Application, process and whether or not you are eligible to apply to a restricted access health sciences program. No preference is given to applicants with degrees: The restricted access health sciences programs do not give admission preference to applicants with earned degrees at any level including associates, baccalaureate, masters, or doctorates. All applicants have the same opportunity for admission according to their grade point average in prerequisites or overall grade point average if there are no prerequisites. Health Sciences Application fee: For programs that require a Health Science Application, the prospective student must pay a fee of $ If you are applying for more than one program at the same time during the same term, in addition to the $53.00 fee, you must pay an additional $10.00 application fee for each additional program for which you apply. If you are applying on more than one application, you must submit the applications at the same time and note on each application that you are applying for more than one program. For example, if you apply for three programs, your application fees will total $73.00 ($53.00 for the first program and two more fee payments totaling $20.00 for two more applications for a total of three program applications). A check or money order made payable to Hillsborough Community College must accompany your Health Sciences and/or Nursing Application. Applicants must include a personal check or money order to pay for the fees. Do not include cash. Fees must be paid and cannot be waived unless the waiver is provided for by the College s administrative rules and/or procedures. Health Sciences Admissions and Appeals Committee: The Committee includes the Dale Mabry Campus Dean of Student Services or designee, Dean of Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies or designee, and a full time counselor. Others may be appointed to the committee by the Dean of Student Services, Dale Mabry Campus or the Dean of Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies. The Dean of Student Services, Dale Mabry Campus will appoint the Chair of the Committee. The Program Manager is an ex-officio member of the Admissions and Appeals Committee and will advise the committee of the needs of the program. After consideration of Linkage candidates (if applicable), appeal contingencies, re-trackers and other considerations, the committee will choose the number of selects and alternates to be made to the program. 19

20 Applicant s responsibility: It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide all necessary documentation, complete and submit the application(s), include all payments and submit all of the required documents on or before the deadline date. Failure to do so will result in the application being incomplete and not considered for admission. HCC does not have a waiting list and does not move applications forward. Individuals with incomplete applications must reapply for the next enrollment period. If all prerequisite requirements will be complete by to the application deadline date, we strongly encourage you to submit your application at least 30 days in advance of the deadline. We will attempt to screen applications for deficiencies although screening is not the college s responsibility. Questions and contact: If you have any questions about the health sciences restricted access admissions process or the status of your application to one of the restricted access health sciences programs; please contact Health Sciences Admissions Office at the Dale Mabry Campus (mflores@hccfl.edu). If you have questions as to whether or not you have completed the required coursework, have satisfied a course substitution or any other questions concerning the process contact an academic advisor or counselor before you apply. HCC Sign Language Interpretation students at Gallaudet University, Washington D.C. 20

21 TIPS TO HELP YOU SUCCEED IN THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS FOR RESTRICTED ACCESS HEALTH SCIENCES PROGRAMS Are there secrets or tricks to getting into the restricted access health sciences programs? No. Planning ahead, attention to detail, and good grades are the three things that you can do to influence the Health Sciences Admissions and Appeals Committee s decision. Admission into a restricted access health sciences program at HCC is done by a committee. The Committee will only review applicants who have submitted complete applications on or before the deadline. When there are more applicants than open slots, the Committee will review a ranking of applicants based on grade point average achieved in the required prerequisite courses; or overall grade point average if there are no prerequisites or if two or more students have the same prerequisite grade point average. Based on the number of slots available, the committee will decide on whether or not an individual will receive an invitation to join the program, a letter advising of alternate status, or a letter denying admission. Admission into many of these programs is very competitive. Tips for a prospective student for one of the health sciences programs include: Restricted access health sciences programs have application deadlines: If your application is late or if any part of your required paperwork is received after the deadline, then you will not be considered by the committee for admission. Many of the programs require you to complete certain prerequisite classes prior to applying for admission: This means that you cannot be enrolled in a required prerequisite course during the term that you apply for the program. If an applicant uses a CLEP score for one or more prerequisite course, the GPA will be calculated on the actual grades earned in classes, and total college credits will be calculated on actual college classes. An original copy must be attached to the application. However, the applicant will be given credit for satisfying the prerequisite. You must have certain scores on a placement test in order to take the prerequisite classes: Before taking any test, you should prepare for it by studying and getting a good night s sleep. Know how your grade point will be calculated: Your grade point will be based on your grades in the prerequisite courses. If two or more applicants have the same grade point average, the overall grade point average will be used to determine ranking. You will be assessed a penalty for enrolling in a prerequisite course more than twice. Withdrawals from a course will be counted as an enrollment. 21

22 Course substitutions: For most programs, if a student has taken a higher level math than the math required for the specific program, that course may be used for the required course. However, there are certain programs that require a specific math course and a higher level math cannot be substituted for the required course. Refer to the specific program eligibility criteria or the checklist at the end of this section in this handbook to determine whether or not a higher level math or statistics course can be applied instead of the required course. If a student has taken a higher level science than the science required for the specific program, the student should meet with an academic advisor or counselor to determine whether or not a course substitution is appropriate. Do not assume that a higher level math or science course will automatically substitute for the required course. All course substitutions must be resolved prior to the health sciences deadline date for admissions. Get all transcripts yourself and include them with the application packet: You must request an official transcript from your high school and from every institution of higher education - college, university, vocational or technical school - you have attended. You are strongly encouraged to have those documents sent to you in a sealed envelope(s); not mailed to Hillsborough Community College. Do not open the envelope(s). Include the sealed envelope(s) with your Health Science/Nursing application. That is the only way you can be sure that the transcript is received by the deadline date or, if no deadline date, when the Health Sciences Admissions and Appeals Committee meets. If the transcript(s) is not received, you will not be considered for admission into the program. Even if you request transcripts be sent directly to HCC before the deadline, you are depending upon the staff of other institutions to send your transcript to HCC by a certain date. That does not always happen. We strongly advise you to take control of the process. Deliver application package or send by regular mail: Do not send your admission packet by certified, registered, or any delivery method that requires a signature. Doing so will only delay receipt of your packet. You are strongly encouraged to put your application package in the specially designated drop box on the second floor of the Dale Mabry Campus. If you want confirmation that the College has received your packet, include a self-addressed, stamped post card. Your application is for one specific class: When you apply, your application is for a specific program s class that begins on a certain date. For example, if you apply for Nursing Basic Fall 2009, then the nursing class you are applying for is the one that begins August 2009 and the deadline for your application is January 15, If you are not admitted to that class, then you must complete a new application including all forms, attachments and fees, and submit the application by the published deadline to be considered for another class admission. There is no waiting list for admissions to any restricted access health sciences program at HCC. 22

23 Keep copies and make notes: When possible, make a copy of your application(s) and other documents. Make a note of the name, date, location, and/or telephone number of individuals you talk to. is an efficient method of communication and it gives you a record of your request and the response. In the event you have to prepare a formal appeal, providing copies and detailed notes will be persuasive. There is an appeal process: If you feel there was an error made, use the appeal process outlined in your denial letter to ensure that your complaint is heard and your situation reviewed. HCC nursing students practice in Laboratory on the Dale Mabry Campus 23

24 i ACCEPTABLE MATH COURSES FOR LIMITED ACCESS HEALTH SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAMS MGF 1202 MGF 1106 MGF 1107 MGF 1119 Nontransfer MAC 1102 MAC 1105 MAC 1114 MAC 1104 MAC 1140 MAC 1147 MAC 2233 MAC 2311 MAC 2312 MAC 2313 STA 2023 Dental Hygiene Diagnostic Medical Sonography EMS Nuclear Medicine Nursing: Basic and Transition Radiation Therapy Radiography Respiratory Care and Respiratory Care Transition 24

25 STUDENTS APPLYING FROM OTHER INSTITUTIONS Hillsborough Community College encourages and welcomes students from other colleges and universities to apply for admission to our health sciences programs. Linkage Program: HCC participates in the Linkage agreement with Manatee Community College, Pasco-Hernando Community College, Polk Community College, and St. Petersburg College. These five schools have a cooperative agreement allowing each other s students to be admitted to specific restricted access programs through a quotabased arrangement. There are specific Linkage rules and procedures that the student must comply with in addition to the admissions rules outlined in this handbook. Consult a current Linkage Handbook to review the rules and procedures and consult with a counselor. HCC health sciences programs that are included in the Linkage System are Dental Hygiene, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Nuclear Medicine, Radiation Therapy, and Respiratory Care. Students pursuing a Linkage program are required to follow the admission process for all other applicants in addition to Linkage requirements. For HCC students interested in pursuing a Linkage program at another institutional partner, the student should contact an HCC Counselor. Students enrolled at one of the participating colleges should contact a counselor at their school to apply for an HCC program. Transferring credit from other institutions to HCC: The student must order official transcripts from high school/ged and all colleges, universities and technical/vocational institutions attended. The student must request that the transcript be sent to HCC or sent to the student in a sealed envelope and the student must deliver the sealed transcripts to the Health Sciences Admissions Office. All transcripts must be received by the health sciences admissions deadline date. Students are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor to determine if they meet the appropriate coursework for their program, if all of their credits will transfer to HCC and if all of their grades will be transferred and calculated. Bring an unofficial copy of all transcripts when meeting with an academic advisor. Students enrolled in a health sciences program at another institution: Students who were enrolled in a health sciences program at another institution and who wish to enroll in the same health sciences (restricted access) program at HCC and be given credit at HCC for completed program coursework in a specific program are governed by the following: A student cannot transfer into the first term of a restricted access health sciences program. 25

26 At least 75% of the credit hours applicable to the program course requirements for any restricted access program must be earned in residence at HCC. The GPA of the prerequisite courses for any transfer student cannot be lower than the lowest GPA of an accepted student in the class. The student must apply in writing to the Dean, Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies at least three (3) months before the beginning date of the semester that the transfer students wishes to begin the program at HCC. The entry date of the program cannot exceed one calendar year (12 consecutive months) from the date of matriculation at the transferring institution. All transfer students must meet the final acceptance requirements of the Division of Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies prior to admission. These standards include but are not restricted to evidence of satisfactory physical health as certified by a licensed physician; successful attendance at the scheduled program orientation or alternative approved by the program manager; CPR certification; assuming and maintaining responsibility for all costs association with any medical procedure and for maintaining health and medical insurance upon entering and while enrolled in the restricted access program; successfully pass a drug screening test prior to final admission to the program; and meet or exceed the background check standards described in this manual. In addition to the above requirements, the student must have: Official transcripts from high school and all colleges/universities/voc or tech centers Course descriptions, module outlines, and syllabi Letter from the Director/Dean (program administrator) of the prior school stating that the student was in good standing Whether or not the student will be admitted and at what point in the curriculum will be determined by the Dean of Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies in consultation with the program manager of the program that the student is applying for. Transfer students must also complete the same process required of any applicant which includes: Submit an online HCC application. If you have not attended HCC previously, you must add the $20 application fee to your nursing or health science application fee of $53. In that case, submit a $73 dollar check or money order payable to HCC when you submit your Nursing or Health Science application. 26

27 Official high school transcript in a sealed envelope mailed to Hillsborough Community College, Attention: Health Sciences Admissions, Dale Mabry Campus, P.O. Box 30030, Tampa, Florida If you have attended other colleges, universities, vocational or technical schools you must submit an official transcript from each school. Include the official transcript(s) in a sealed envelope(s) mailed to Hillsborough Community College, Attention: Health Sciences Admissions, Dale Mabry Campus, P.O. Box 30030, Tampa, Florida Health Sciences or Nursing application complete which must be printed from the health sciences website at Completed Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) authorization form No convictions for specific crimes (see Program Acceptance Restricted Access Programs in this booklet for listing of convictions that prohibit admission) $53.00 fee accompanying Health Sciences or Nursing application Prerequisite courses completed Placement tests completed within two (2) years of the date of application and achieve minimum score (for Paramedic and Dental Assisting programs only) Copies of supporting documents such as certificates and licenses (if required) Be at least 18 years old by the first day of the start of the program (required by certain programs) Deliver complete package to HCC Dale Mabry Health Sciences Drop Box located on the 1 st floor of the Student Services Building or send by regular mail on or before the deadline 27

28 PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS Health sciences programs within the Division of Health, Wellness & Sports Technologies demand certain expectations from students that are not demands made of students in other programs at the College. These demands arise because of the critically important role a health care provider has to his or her clients and because of the demanding schedule the programs require. Clinical sites may require specific substance testing on a routine basis; as a result of a specific incident; or by random selection. FDLE checks may be generated on any student at any time until the student in a restricted access health sciences program is matriculated. In summation, all standards for admission are standards that continue to apply to students throughout the length of the restricted access health sciences program. Full-time commitment: Programs in the health sciences professions require a fulltime commitment from students for approximately 2 years after admission into the program. Each program has an established term-by-term course of study that must be completed. Some programs require only day attendance while others require both day and evening attendance. Refer to the program information in this manual for details on your intended program. However, due to circumstances beyond the program s control, changes in schedules may be made without notice. On time, prepared and professional behavior at all times: Students are expected to arrive on time and be prepared for classes, labs and clinicals, as well as to represent the College in a positive and professional manner in all activities associated with HCC s health sciences programs. Students are also expected to act appropriately when conducting any business on campus. Clinical performance is also a critical area for health sciences students. Someone who is determined to be unsafe in the clinical setting may be barred from continuing in the program. Earn a C or better: Health sciences students must earn a grade of C or higher in each program course requirement. Although this does not apply to general education or elective courses for all programs, it is recommended that students strive to achieve the highest grades possible in all classes. Some programs have more rigorous requirements as outlined in the specific program handbook. 28