As demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow across North Carolina, Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute (CCC&TI) is introducing a new Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Health Sciences degree. The new program is designed to prepare students for a variety of healthcare careers while also helping meet the workforce needs of local and regional healthcare providers.
The new program offers students a flexible pathway into the healthcare field, whether they plan to enter the workforce after graduation or continue their education in advanced health sciences programs. By combining foundational coursework with opportunities to earn stackable credentials, the program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s evolving healthcare environment.
Students will build essential skills using current healthcare technologies, train alongside interdisciplinary teams, and develop specialized competencies that prepare them for careers in a variety of healthcare settings. The program also allows students to earn industry-recognized credentials along the way, creating opportunities for career mobility and continued professional growth.
Graduates of the program may pursue careers in healthcare administration, clinical support positions such as nurse aide or phlebotomist, or transfer credits toward bachelor’s degree programs and other advanced health sciences degrees.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare remains one of the nation’s fastest-growing employment sectors, making the need for well-trained professionals greater than ever. CCC&TI’s A.A.S. in Health Sciences was developed to help address that demand while providing students with greater flexibility in pursuing healthcare careers.
“The A.A.S. in Health Sciences is designed to cast a wide net for students who are interested in healthcare but aren’t yet sure which path they want to take,” said Dr. Kristin Belisle, Dean of Health Sciences Programs at CCC&TI. “It’s also a great option for high school students to earn credits through the Career and College Promise (CCP) program, giving them a head start on a college degree at no cost, before they even graduate from high school.”
Dr. Belisle also shared that the program is a great way for students to begin their education if they are waiting for entry into competitive programs or if they have credits earned toward another health sciences degree. “The A.A.S. in Health Sciences provides an opportunity to apply already earned credits toward a degree and continue moving forward,” continued Belisle. “It’s a win-win for everyone—students gain flexibility and a valuable credential, community partners benefit from a stronger workforce pipeline, and the college expands access and supports student success.”
The program is also ideal for students who want to explore a variety of healthcare careers before selecting a specialty, complete general education requirements for advanced health sciences programs, earn stackable credentials while working toward a degree, or prepare for continued education in a variety of healthcare fields.
Enrollment is now open for the Associate in Applied Science in Health Sciences program at CCC&TI. Fall semester begins on Aug. 17
“Healthcare providers throughout our region continue to need skilled, compassionate professionals,” Belisle said. “By expanding access to healthcare education and creating flexible pathways for students, CCC&TI is investing in the future of our communities while helping students build meaningful, rewarding careers.”
For more information about the Associate in Applied Science in Health Sciences program or to apply visit www.cccti.edu or call 828-726-2200 (Caldwell) or 828-297-3811 (Watauga.)