Programs	Catalog 2000-2001
of Study (Pg 3)

Physical Therapist Assistant
Program #5540
The purpose of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program (PTA) is to graduate students with the knowledge, clinical competency, and integrity to positively impact their patients and profession. As an integrated two-year curriculum, the program offers the students the opportunity to earn an Associate of Science degree with immediate entry into a rewarding career upon successful completion of the licensure exam.
The OTA program prepares students for careers as members of the health care team who provide direct patient care under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. The PTA provides treatment to patients with various diagnoses to relieve pain and/or improve function via therapeutic application of heat, cold, light, water, electricity, sound, massage, exercise, gait, and functional activity.
PTAs are licensed professionals who work in settings where Physical Therapists are employed. They work in hospitals, private practices, rehabilitation centers, school systems, sports teams, home health agencies, and other qualified facilities.
The PTA program is a 74 credit hour AS degree program, which trains and qualifies graduates to work in the physical therapist assistant field. This is a limited access program; students are admitted to the program by a selective admission process with 18 students accepted once a year. Students seeking admission must first be admitted to the college and complete prerequisite courses.
The PTA program is offered on the Winter Haven campus. Classes are scheduled Monday through Friday and include both day and evening hours. Program requirements are rigorous. Students must make the program commitment their first priority to ensure success.

Accreditation
Polk Community College has achieved accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education of the American Physical Therapy Association. Graduates of the PTA program are eligible to take the National Physical Therapist Assistant Examination for licensure as registered Physical Therapist Assistants.

Admission Criteria
The following are minimum requirements for consideration for admission into the Physical Therapist Assistant Program.

1. Acceptance to Polk Community College as a credit student with all required admission documents received by the Registrar. 2. At the time of application, an overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.00 or higher. 3. At the time of application and admission, a GPA of 2.00 or higher in all prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or better in each course. 4. Completion of any required college prep courses. 5. Completion of the following prerequisite courses at the time of application: ENC 1101 MAT 1033 BSC 2085C College Composition I Intermediate Algebra (or MAC courses) Anatomy and Physiology I 6. Completion of the following prerequisite course work that may be in progress during the application semester: HSC 1531 PHI 2600 HSC 1000 BSC 2086C HSC 2554 Medical Terminology Ethics Introduction to Allied Health Anatomy and Physiology II *Human Disease *May be taken before entering program or during first year/Fall semester. 7. Verification of at least 50 volunteer/observation/employment hours in a physical therapy setting. 8. Submission of a complete and accurate Physical Therapist Assistant Program application to Student Services during the application period of November 1 to February 15 for the following Fall class.

Applications Are Available During This Period At Student Services.
The application must contain all the above listed requirements in order for it to be sent to the Selection Committee. Therefore, it is Imperative that a student wishing to be considered for a position in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program meet with an academic advisor to assure compliance with the above requirements.

Additional Program Requirements
The following requirements are to be completed prior to the first summer clinical affiliation:

A. Physical Examination and Essential Functions B. Immunization and Communicable Disease Screenings C. Current CPR Certification D. AIDS Certification E. Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) background checks F. Signed Affidavit attesting to the noncommittance of specific criminal acts. The Program Manager will provide information regarding the completion of these additional program requirements during orientation.

Selection Criteria
Admission to the PTA program is based on the following criteria with the maximum points for each criterion indicated:

1. Academic standing and performance in the prerequisite courses: 65 points 2. Interview: 10 points Students are evaluated on their communication skills and knowledge of the profession. In addition to the personal interviews, the student's written communication on his/her application will contribute to the points earned in this category. 3. Demonstrated interest in and exposure to physical therapy: 20 points Exposure to physical therapy may be obtained as a volunteer, observer, or employee and exposure to a variety of settings (at least four) is recommended. These hours should be documented and verified by a licensed physical therapist or physical therapist assistant on the verification form available in Student Services. Although only 50 hours are required, additional exposure to the physical therapy profession is strongly recommended. Points in this category will be assigned based on the number of hours as well as exposure to different Physical Therapy settings. To be eligible for the maximum allowed points in this category; students MUST have a minimum of four (4) exposure settings, and a maximum of 160 hours. 4. Polk Community College's service area: 5 points A student who has completed his/her prerequisite work at the college will receive up to five (5) points to ensure that PCC is addressing the needs of students in its service area. The number of points will depend upon the courses and credit hours completed at PCC.

Selection Process
The PTA Selection Committee selects candidates for program admission. The selection is based on the total points earned in the selection criteria.
Positions are filled by the most qualified applicants.
When selected for a position in the PTA program, the applicant must enter during the designated term or lose his/her position. Positions unclaimed will be given to alternates.

Program Cost
The approximate cost of the program is $6,800. This cost includes course fees, books, and uniforms.

Potential Earnings
Physical Therapist Assistants salaries range from $21,888 -$38,000 depending on the region or type of setting.

Licensure Examination
Following completion of academic and clinical work, graduates of the program will be able to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination for the Physical Therapist Assistant. The exam is administered by the Professional Examination Service Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (PES/FSBPT), 475 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10115, (212) 367-4200.

Florida Licensure
Most states require licensure in order to practice, therefore, graduates need to apply for Florida licensure upon successful completion of the PTA program graduation requirements. They are responsible for requesting information from the state licensing agency and completing requirements for licensure. To obtain this information regarding the Florida Board of Physical Therapy Practice you may write or call the Board office or visit their Internet Web Site.
Department of Health
Board of Physical Therapy
2020 Capital Circle SE BIN # C05
Tallahassee, FL 32399-3255
Telephone (850) 488-0595 FAX (850) 414-6860
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/mqa/physical/ptnew.htm

Program Sequence
The program sequence is as follows (assuming only the completion of prerequisite courses):

First Year Fall Semester		Credits Required
PHT 1128C PHT 1250C HSC 2554	Functional Anatomy and Kinesiology I Introduction to Basic Patient Care * Human Diseases *May be taken before entering program	4 5 3
Spring Semester
PHT 1129C PHT 1213C PHT 2220C	Functional Anatomy and Kinesiology II Physical Therapy Principles and Procedures Therapeutic Exercise in Physical Therapy I	4 5 2
Summer Semester
PHT 1801L	Physical Therapy Clinical Education I	4
Second Year Fall Semester
PHT 2252C PHT 2221C PHT 2810L PHT 2931	Orthopedic Disabilities and Rehabilitation Therapeutic Exercise in Physical Therapy II Physical Therapy Clinical Education II Trends in Physical Therapy	4 2 4 2
Spring Semester
PHT 2253C PHT 2820L PHT 2930	Neurological Disabilities and Treatment Physical Therapy Clinical Education III Clinical Correlations in Physical Therapy	3 5 2

Program Curriculum

		Credits Required
General Education Requirements			17
Communications ENC 1101	College Composition I	3
Mathematics MAT 1033	Intermediate Algebra or higher	3
Humanities PHI 2600	Ethics	3
Social Sciences PSY 2012	General Psychology	3
Natural Sciences BSC 2085C	Human Anatomy and Physiology I	5
Program Requirements			57
BSC 2086C HSC 1531 HSC 1000 HSC 2554 PHT 1128C PHT 1129C PHT 1250C PHT 1213C PHT 2252C PHT 1801L PHT 2810L PHT 2820L PHT 2930 PHT 2931 PHT 2220C PHT 2221C PHT 2253C	Human Anatomy and Physiology II Medical Terminology Introduction to Allied Health Human Diseases Functional Anatomy and Kinesiology I Functional Anatomy and Kinesiology II Introduction to Basic Patient Care Physical Therapy Principles and Procedures Orthopedic Disabilities and Rehabilitation Physical Therapy Clinical Education I Physical Therapy Clinical Education II Physical Therapy Clinical Education III Clinical Correlations in Physical Therapy Trends in Physical Therapy Therapeutic Exercise in Physical Therapy I Therapeutic Exercise in Physical Therapy II Neurological Disabilities and Treatment	5 2 1 3 4 4 5 5 4 4 5 2 2 2 2 3
Total Program Hours________________________________________________________________________________ 74

Power Generation Process Technology
Program #5740
This program is designed to prepare individuals for employment in the Power Generation or process industry. Participants learn all phases of the industry including how to operate, maintain, and repair all types of power plant and process industry equipment including steam turbines, gas turbines, diesel engines, generators, pumps, boilers, pressure vessels, pollution control equipment, and other equipment. Graduates may find employment in research and development facilities, industrial equipment manufacturing firms, or sales and service fields.
Students scoring below required levels on state mandated placement tests in English, reading, and mathematics are required to enroll in and complete the appropriate College Preparatory course(s) before enrolling in some program requirement courses.

		Credits Required
General Education Requirements			18
Communications ENC 1101	College Composition I	3
Mathematics MAC 1105	College Algebra	3
HUMANITIES PHI 2100	Logic	3
SOCIAL SCIENCES INP 1301	Human Relations in Business and Industry	3
NATURAL SCIENCES CHM 1025C	Introduction to Chemistry	4
HEALTH HLP 1081	Wellness Concepts	2
Program Requirements			49
CGS 1061C ETI 1813 ETI 1879C ETI 2875C ETI 2876C ETI 2878C EET 2566C ENC 2210 ETI 1870C ETI 2871C ETI 2872C ETI 2873C ETI 2877C MAC 1114 PHY 2001C	Introduction to Computers and Information Systems Introduction to Chemical/Process Plant Technology Mechanical Concepts Steam/Gas Turbines and Diesels Water Treatment and Equipment Plant Protection Systems Basic Electricity Systems Introduction to Technical/Professional Writing Power Generation I Power Generation II Power Generation III Power Generation IV Environmental Protection Trigonometry Basic Concepts of Physics	3 3 3 3 3 3 4 3 3 4 3 4 3 3 4
ELECTIVE			1
Total Program Hours________________________________________________________________________________68

Radiography (Radiologic Technology)
Program #5570
The Radiography Program fosters and supports creative and positive learning experiences within an atmosphere of academic excellence and continuous improvement. Our goal is to provide every student with the knowledge, skills and professional attributes necessary to succeed as radiographers.
The Radiography Program provides its students an organized curriculum that includes courses in general education and radiologic education preparing students for careers as members of the health care team. The radiographer is a licensed professional who is primarily responsible for applying ionizing radiation to demonstrate portions of the human body on a radiograph, fluoroscopic screen or other imaging modalities to assist the physician in the diagnosis of disease and injury. Radiographers work in hospitals, private practices, rehabilitation centers, home health agencies, and other qualified facilities.
Students are admitted to the Radiography program by a selective admission process. Twenty students are accepted once a year to a class beginning in January. Students seeking admission must first be admitted to the college and have completed or be in the process of completing prerequisite courses. Students applying to the program must complete the prerequisite courses prior to entering the program. Students are required to provide documented proof that they are free of contagious diseases prior to placement in health care facilities for professional practice. In addition, federal, state and local requirements regarding "substance abuse" shall apply.
The Radiography program is offered on the Winter Haven campus. Classes are scheduled Monday through Friday and include both day and evening hours, with minimal weekend rotations.

Accreditation
Polk Community College has achieved accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiography. Graduates of the Radiography program are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists examination for certification as Radiographers. This examination carries national certification and allows the student to apply for state licensure.

Admission Criteria
The following are minimum requirements for consideration for admission to Radiography:

	1. Acceptance to Polk Community College as a credit student with all required admission documents received by the Registrar. 2. At the time of application, an overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.00 or higher. 3. At the time of application and admission, a GPA of 2.00 or higher in all prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or better in each course. 4. Completion of any required college prep courses. 5. Completion of the following prerequisite courses by the January start date:   BSC 1084C HSC 1531 HSC 1000 Basic Anatomy and Physiology Medical Terminology Introduction to Allied Health 6. Submission of a complete and accurate Radiography Program application to Student Services during the application period of May 1 to September 15 for the following January class. Applications are available in Student Services.
The application must contain ALL of the above listed requirements in order for it to be sent to the Selection Committee. Therefore, it is IMPERATIVE that a student wishing to be considered for a position in the Radiography Program meet with an academic advisor to assure compliance with the above requirements.
Additional Program Requirements Admission requirements that are completed after the selection process has been finalized include:
	A. Physical Examination and Essential Functions B. Immunization and Communicable Disease Screenings C. Current CPR Certification D. Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) background checks E. Drug Screening F. Signed Affidavit attesting to the noncommittance of specific criminal acts. The Program Manager will provide information regarding the completion of these additional admission requirements with the acceptance letter.
Selection Criteria Admission to the program is based on the following criteria with the maximum points for each criterion indicated:
	1. Academic standing and performance in the prerequisite courses: 40 Points
Students having grades posted for all prerequisites will be given preference in the academic standing
	2. Program requirements completed other than RTE courses: 40 Points 3. Resident of Polk, Highlands or Hardee Counties: 5 Points 4. Relevant medical experience: 5 Points 5. Completion of prerequisite courses with a grade posted: 10 Points
Selection Process
	1. The Selection Committee meets in the fall term to select candidates for program admission. The selection is based on total points earned in the selection criteria as indicated above. 2. Positions are filled by the most qualified applicants. 3. When selected for a position in the program, the applicant must enter during the designated term or lose his/her position. Positions unclaimed are given to alternates. Previous selection does not mean automatic selection for a later class as a new application is required. 4. Applicants selected must complete any prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or better by the January start date.

Program Cost
The approximate cost of the program is $4500. This cost includes course fees, books, and uniforms.

Potential Earnings
Radiographers may work part time or a full time (40 hours) work week Entry level radiographers can expect an hourly
rate of pay between $10 - $12 with additional pay for shift differential.

Certification Examination
Following the completion of all requirements for graduation from the Radiography Program, graduates are eligible to sit for the national registry examination administered by the American Registry for Radiologic Technologists. The examination is offered January, March, and July of each year. The cost for first time examinees is $125. After successful completion of this exam, the graduate will be a Registered Technologist in Radiography and may use the designation R.T.(R)(ARRT).

Florida Licensure
The State of Florida requires that all persons practicing radiography hold a state license. All graduates who have successfully completed the ARRT examination may apply for and receive the state license. The cost is $115 payable to the Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Radiation Control.
Program Curriculum

		Credits Required
General Education Requirements			19
Communications ENC 1101	College Composition I	3
Mathmatics MAT 1033	Intermediate Algebra or higher	3
Humanities PHI 2600	Ethics	3
Social Sciences	Social Science approved for General Education	3
Natural Sciences BSC 1084C	Basic Anatomy and Physiology	5
Health HLP 1081	Wellness Concepts	2
Program Requirements			58
CGS 1061C HSC 1000 HSC 1531 RTE 1000 RTE 1111 RTE 1418 RTE 1458 RTE 1503 RTE 1513 RTE 1613 RTE 1804 RTE 1814 RTE 2061 RTE 2385 RTE 2458L RTE 2523 RTE 2762 RTE 2782C RTE 2824 RTE 2834 RTE 2844 RTE 2854	Intro to Computers and Information Systems Introduction to Allied Health Medical Terminology Orientation to Radiologic Technology Radiographic Nursing Procedures Principles of Radiographic Exposure I Principles of Radiographic Exposure II Radiographic Positioning I Radiographic Positioning II Radiographic Physics Radiographic Clinical I Radiographic Clinical II Radiographic Management Seminar Radiation Biology and Protection Radiographic Quality Assurance Radiographic Positioning III Cross-Sectional Anatomy Radiographic Pathology Radiographic Clinical III Radiographic Clinical IV Radiographic Clinical V Radiographic Clinical VI	3 1 2 1 2 2 3 3 3 3 2 3 4 2 2 3 1 2 3 4 4 5
Total Program Hours_________________________________________________________________________________ 77

Coding Specialist Certificate
Program #8030
Coders are vital members of the Health Information Management (HIM) occupational cluster. Upon successful completion of this certificate program, the student will have the skills to review the health care documentation, determine the appropriate sequencing and classification of code assignment in accordance with Coding Clinic Guidelines. The codes are used for aggregate statistics, research, and reimbursement for services rendered.
This program includes courses recommended by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Student courses will include Fundamental Applications of HIM, Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Terminology, specific courses on assigning International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes, as well Clinical Practicums.
Program Hours
Most courses will be offered Monday through Friday, primarily during the early evening hours.

Work Sites
Coders are employed by various health care organizations such as hospitals, doctors' offices, clinics, governmental facilities, and insurance companies. Experienced coders can work as independent contract coders.

Potential Salaries
Credentialed Coders salaries are influenced by the type of setting, experience and difficulty of the work. Entry level pay for Coders varies from $9.00 to $13.00 per hour in Florida. Experienced coders who earn incentive pay and/or do contract work make salaries in the $35,000 to $60,000 ranges.

Certification Exam
Graduates passing the certification exam are designated Certified Coding Specialist (CCS). Coders are certified by the AHIMA.

Admission Criteria
The following criteria are required prior to admission to the Coding Specialist Program:

	1. Acceptance to Polk Community College as a credit student with all required admission documents received by the Registrar. 2. At the time of application, an overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.00 or higher. 3. At the time of application and admission, a GPA of 2.00 or higher in all prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or better in each course. 4. Completion of any required college prep courses. 5. Completion Of The Following Prerequisite Courses By The August Start Date:
	CGS 1061C Introduction to Computers and Information Systems BSC 2085C Anatomy & Physiology I HSC 1531 Medical Terminology
	6. Pre-admission consultation with the HIM Program Manager. 7. Submission of a complete and accurate application for the Coding Specialist Program to Student Services by the application deadline of June 30, for the following fall class. Applications are available in Student Services. The application must contain ALL of the above listed requirements. |> The HIM Program Manager can be reached at 297-1010 ext. 5370.

Coding Certificate Curriculum

Program Requirements		Credits Required
CGS 1061C* BSC 2085C* HSC 1531* BSC 2086C* HSC 2532* HSC 2554* HIM 1000C* HIM 1222C* HIM 2234C* HIM 2295C* OST 1335* HIM 2817L	Intro to Computers and Information Systems Anatomy & Physiology I Medical Terminology Anatomy and Physiology II Advanced Medical Terminology Principles of Disease Fundamental Applications of HIM Basic ICD-9-CM Coding Guidelines & Principles Advanced ICD-9-CM Coding & Reimbursement CPT Coding Principles & Reimbursement Business Communications Coding Application Practicum	3 5 2 5 2 3 3 3 3 4 3 1
Total Hours__________________________________________________________________________________________ 37
*These courses are common to the following programs: Health Information Technology and Coding Specialist.

Emergency Medical Technology Certificate
Program #8130
The Emergency Medical Technician is a member of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team delivering out-of-hospital emergency care under the direction of an emergency physician. EMTs are a mainstay with public health and community service agencies operating emergency vehicles that respond to emergency rescue calls and other life-threatening situations. The EMT's primary responsibilities are to safely care for victims of accident or sudden illness by stabilization of the patient's condition and safely transporting the patient to the hospital emergency department.
The goal of the Emergency Medical Technology Certificate is to graduate students who have demonstrated the necessary knowledge, technical skill, and professional attitude and behavior to implement safe, effective and appropriate care as entry level Emergency Medical Technicians.
The program is designed to prepare individuals for initial employment as an EMT. Instruction includes current knowledge, techniques and development of professional attitudes practiced by an EMT providing out-of-hospital emergency medical care. This is an intensive 276 contact hour course that requires careful planning of school, work and home schedules to accomplish. Students are advised to contact the program manager for additional information and scheduling details. This certificate course is a program consisting of lecture, lab and clinical components.
Students are expected to demonstrate competency in basic, emergency medical care skills, knowledge and to display a professional attitude.

Prerequisites
First Responder Credit from other colleges will be transferred. First Responder certificates from other institutions will require verification with a score of 70% or higher on the First Responder "Credit by Exam." Successful completion of this exam provides PCC credit for EMS 1059 and EMS 1059L.

Accreditation Status
The State of Florida, Bureau of EMS, accredits the EMS instructional program.

Certification Cost
The approximate cost is $650.00. In addition to the cost of the program prerequisites, this includes course fees, lab fees, books, uniforms and other estimated costs.

Program Hours
The EMT course is offered in the evenings on Tuesday/
Thursday or Monday/Wednesday. Substantial out of class work is required to complete the certificate. Students must plan carefully.

Working Hours
The EMT performs in various settings, in conjunction with other emergency service providers, including Law Enforcement and Fire Department personnel.

Potential Salaries
Salaries range from $18,000 - $25,000 depending upon the agency of employment.

Certification Examination
Successful completion of EMS 1159 and EMS 1159L qualifies students to take the Florida State Examination for EMT's and the National Registry of EMT's.

Certificate Curriculum

		Credits Required
Program Requirements
EMS 1059 EMS 1059L EMS 1159 EMS 1159L	First Responder First Responder Lab Emergency Medical Technology Emergency Medical Technology Lab/Clinical	2 1 6 4
TOTAL HOURS_______________________________________________________________________________________13

Engineering Graphics Certificate
Program #8400
This certificate provides a program of study to develop the AutoCAD® skills needed to assist the engineering activities of industry and consultants in planning, design, detailing and rendering. The program is intended to train students in producing and technically interpreting AutoCAD® drawings. Included is engineering graphics, civil and architectural, construction and structural details, fabrication and machined drawings, electronic/electrical drawings, and landscape, as well as solid modeling and 3-dimensional movement applications.

		Credits Required
Program Requirements
EGS 1110C ETD 2320C ETD 2350C SUR 2101C	Engineering Graphics Intermediate Engineering Graphics Advanced Engineering Graphics Surveying	3 4 4 3
Total Hours_______________________________________________________________________________________14

Medical Transcription Certificate
Program #8060
The medical transcriptionist, using a standard format, types the doctor's impressions regarding patient assessment, work-up, therapeutic procedures, clinical course, and prognosis in order to document patient care and facilitate delivery of service. This work requires an excellent understanding of medical terms, human anatomy and physiology, human diseases, dictation and transcription equipment and computer word processing applications.

Program Cost
The current cost of the certificate program including course fees, books, and supplies is approximately $2,250.

Program Hours
Most courses will be offered on Monday through Friday, primarily during the evening hours.

Work Sites
Medical transcription professionals are employed in a variety of settings: hospitals, doctors' offices, clinics, government facilities, insurance companies or veterinary medical facilities. Experienced transcriptionists may work as independent contractors.

Potential Salaries
Beginning pay ranges from $8.00 to $10.00 per hour, plus incentives.

Certification Exam
Transcriptionist's may take the national certification examination with the American Association of Medical Transcription to become certified.

Certificate Curriculum

Program Requirements		Credits Required
BSC 2085C* BSC 2086C* HSC 1000* HSC 1531* HSC 2532* HSC 2554* HIM 1000C* HIM 1012* OST 1143C OST 1611C OST 2144C OST 2612C OST 2613C OST 2940	Anatomy & Physiology I Anatomy & Physiology II Introduction to Allied Health Medical Terminology Advanced Medical Terminology Principles of Disease Fundamental Application of Health Information Management Legal Aspects of Health InformationManagement Microcomputer Keyboarding II Medical Transcription I Microcomputer Keyboarding III Medical Transcription II Medical Transcription III Medical Transcription Practicum	5 5 1 2 2 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 3
Total Hours__________________________________________________________________________________________41
*These courses are common to the following programs: Health Information Technology and Coding Specialist and Medical Transcription.

Office Systems Specialist Certificate
Program #8230
The Office Systems Specialist program prepares students for entry-level positions. Completers are prepared to assist management in typing and transcribing business documents, operating word and information processors, filing, and keeping financial records.
Students scoring below required levels on state mandated placement tests in English, reading, and mathematics are required to enroll in and complete the appropriate College Preparatory course(s) before enrolling in some program requirement courses.
Certificate Curriculum

Program Requirements		Credits Required
ACG 2001 ACG 2450 OST 1142C OST 1143C OST 1335 OST 1601 OST 1711C OST 2144C OST 2402 OST 2723C	Principles of Financial Accounting I Microcomputer Accounting Microcomputer Keyboarding I Microcomputer Keyboarding II Business Communications Machine Dictation & Transcription Word Processing Concepts & Applications Microcomputer Keyboarding III Office Procedures & Management Advanced Work Processing Applications and Systems Management	3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
Total Hours__________________________________________________________________________________________30

Paramedic Certificate
Program #8160
The goal of the Paramedic Certificate program is to graduate students who have demonstrated the necessary knowledge, technical skill, and professional attitude and behavior to implement safe, effective and appropriate care as an entry level Paramedic.
The Paramedic is the team leader of the Emergency Medical Services System team delivering out-of-hospital emergency care under the direction of an emergency physician. Paramedics direct and manage patient care aspects of the emergency response team. The response team is commonly composed of public safety and community service agency personnel that respond to traffic accidents, fires, explosions, cave-ins, emergency rescue calls and other life-threatening situations. The Paramedic's primary responsibilities are to safely care for victims of accident or sudden illness by stabilization of the patient's condition using advanced life support skills and equipment and safely transporting the patient to the hospital emergency department. The Paramedic performs these duties, in various settings, in conjunction with other emergency service providers, including Law Enforcement and Fire Department personnel. Paramedics also assist in patient care in hospitals and doctors' offices, with specific instruction and supervision. The actions of a Paramedic can often mean the difference between patient survival or patient death. Successful completion of the prescribed courses and the awarding of a certificate of completion will provide eligibility to take the State of Florida Paramedic Examination or the National Registry Examination for certification as a Paramedic.

Program Description
The Paramedic course sequence is a three-semester sequence consisting of four components each semester: Lecture, Lab, Hospital Clinical, and EMS Clinical. Students are expected to demonstrate competency in advanced, emergency medical care skills, knowledge and to display a professional attitude.
This is a limited admission certificate program that requires that each applicant first be admitted to the college and meet pre-admission requirements. Applicants with the best qualifications are selected during the summer of each year to begin work in the Fall term. Admission requires current certification as a State of Florida Emergency Medical Technician.
This is an intensive 1,200 contact hour program that requires careful planning of school, work and home schedules to accomplish. During the hospital/field phase the student will observe a special calendar, which is not identical with the college's published calendar. Students must attend program activities as assigned. Students are advised to contact the program manager for additional information and scheduling details.
The program is offered in the daytime on an alternating (week to week) schedule to accommodate students who work a 24-on-48-off work schedule. Students who score below required levels on state mandated placement tests in English, Reading, and Mathematics may enroll in one college preparatory course concurrent with Paramedic I. Student requiring more than one college preparatory course will be denied admission until the English, Reading and Mathematics requirements are achieved>

Accreditation
The program is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the EMS Professional.

Admission Requirements
The following are minimum requirements for consideration for admission to the Paramedic Certificate Program. Applicants are admitted once a year and are limited to individuals selected by the Selection Committee.

1. Acceptance to Polk Community College as a credit student with all required admission documents on file. 2. At the time of application and admission to the Paramedic program, an overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.00 or higher. 3. Completion of all but one required college prep courses, if any. 4. Completion of the following prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or better:   EMS 1159 Emergency Medical Technology EMS 1159L Emergency Medical Technology Lab BSC 1084C Basic Anatomy and Physiology 5. Submission of a complete and accurate application for the Paramedic Certificate program to Student Services by the application deadline of June 30 for the following Fall class. Late applications are not considered unless fewer than 14 qualified applications are received by the deadline. Applications are available in Student Services.

The application must contain all the above listed requirements in order for it to be sent to the Selection Committee. Therefore, it is imperative that a student wishing to be considered for a position in the Paramedic program meet with the program manager to assure compliance with the above requirements.

Additional Program Requirements
Additional requirements that are completed after the selection process has been finalized include:

A. Physical Examination and Essential Functions B. Immunizations and Communicable Disease Screenings C. Current CPR Certification (ARC or AHA)

The Program manager will provide information regarding the completion of these additional admission requirements with the acceptance letter.

Selection Criteria
Admission to the Paramedic Certificate Program is based on the following criteria with maximum points for each criterion indicated:
1. GPA of prerequisite courses: 50 points
2. GPA of AS Degree general education courses indicated below that have been completed: 15 points

ENC 1101 College Composition I HUM 2020 Introduction to Humanities PSY 1012 General Psychology HLP 1081 Wellness Concepts

3. Interview with selection committee: 20 points
4. Demonstrated experience in EMS: 15 points
5. Experience in EMS may be obtained as a volunteer or employee. The hours must be documented and will be verified by the program manager.

Selection Process
1. The Selection Committee selects candidates for program admission based on total points earned in the selection criteria as indicated above.
2. The most qualified applicants are selected.
3. When selected for a position in the Paramedic program, the applicant must enter at the designated time or lose his/her position. Positions unclaimed will be given to alternates. Previous selection does not mean automatic selection for a later class, as a new application is required.

Program Cost
The approximate cost of the Paramedic program is $2,000 in addition to the cost of the program prerequisites. The cost includes course fees, books, physical exams, uniforms, and other related cost.

Potential Earnings
Paramedic's normally work a 56-hour work week on a 24-hour on and 48 hours off work schedule. Salaries range from $22,000 to $40,000 annually.

Certification Examination
The program prepares students for the National Registry of EMT's Paramedic Exam and Florida's certification exam as a Paramedic.

Certification Curriculum

Program Requirements		Credits Required
EMS 1059 EMS 1059L EMS 1159 EMS 1159L BSC 1084C EMS 2294 EMS 2294L EMS 2295 EMS 2295L EMS 2296 EMS 2296L	First Responder First Responder Lab Emergency Medical Technology EMT Lab/Clinical Basic Anatomy and Physiology Paramedic I Paramedic I Lab/Clinical Paramedic II Paramedic II Lab/Clinical Paramedic III Paramedic III Lab/Clinical	2 1 6 4 5 8 4 8 4 6 4
Total Hours_________________________________________________________________52

Corrections Officer Certificate
Program #8500
This program provides job-related training at the entry level to candidates for correctional officer positions. The curriculum is prescribed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission in accordance with Florida Statutes. This program requires physically and mentally strong, fair-minded and constantly alert individuals.
Upon completion of the program, the student must pass the Florida Criminal Justice State Examination before receiving provisional certification. This certification is required for employment as a correctional officer in either the county or state correctional institutions.
Candidates for this program must submit an application for the program to the Criminal Justice Training Program office.

		Vocational Credits Required
Program Requirements
CJD 0254 CJD 0705 CJD 0710 CJD 0711 CJD 0713 CJD 0750 CJD 0704 CJD 0712 CJD 0741 CJD 0752	First Responder Weapons Legal I Legal III Interpersonal Skills I Interpersonal Skills II Defensive Tactics Communications Emergency Preparedness Correctional Operations	1.5 2.0 2.0 1.5 2.0 1.5 3.5 2.0 1.0 2.0
Total Hours_________________________________________________________________________19

Law Enforcement Certificate
Program #8600
This program provides job-related training at the entry level to candidates for law enforcement officers positions. The curriculum is prescribed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission in accordance with the Florida Statutes. This program requires physically and mentally strong, fair-minded and constantly alert individuals.
Upon completion of the program, the student must pass the Florida Criminal Justice State Examination before receiving provisional certification. This certification is required for employment as a law enforcement officer in local, county, and state law enforcement agencies.
Candidates for this program must submit an application for the program to the Criminal Justice Training Program Office.

		Vocational Credits Required
Program Requirements
CJD 0254 CJD 0705 CJD 0710 CJD 0711 CJD 0730 CJD 0713 CJD 0732 CJD 0704 CJD 0712 CJD 0723 CJD 0731 CJD 0734	First Responder Weapons Legal I Legal II Legal III Interpersonal Skills Traffic Defensive Tactics Communications Vehicle Operation Patrol 2.0 Investigation 2.0	1.5 2.0 2.0 1.5 1.0 I 2.0 1.5 3.5 2.0 1.0
Total Hours_________________________________________________________________________22.0

Linkage Programs

The Linkage System is a cooperative agreement among five community colleges in the Tampa Bay Area: Hillsborough Community College, Manatee Junior College, Pasco-Hernando Community College, Polk Community College, and St. Petersburg Junior College. PCC also has a linkage agreement with Valencia Community College for Dental Hygiene. This system offers PCC students the opportunity to enter identified programs on a quota-based system. Some courses appropriate to the respective programs may be taken at PCC. Students who have been selected for admission to a linkage program at a college out of their district will be required to conform to all program requirements, policies, and procedures of the linkage college, which is the degree granting college.
Additional information on the Linkage Program may be obtained by contacting a Polk Community College counselor.
Linkage Programs are as follows:

Hillsborough Community College   Environmental Science Technology Human Services Medical Sonography Technology Nuclear Medicine Technology Ophthalmic Dispensing Radiation Therapy Technology Respiratory Care  Manatee Community College    Respiratory Care Pasco Hernando Community College   Dental Hygiene St. Petersburg Junior College   Dental Hygiene Funeral Services Health Services Management Respiratory Care Medical Lab Technology Veterinary Technology Valencia Community College   Dental Hygiene