Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences at Century College
Credential: Associate's | State: MN
Annual Completions: 9
Foundational Health Sciences Degree: Entry-Level Roles with Potential for Growth
Program Analysis
The Associate's degree in General Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences at Century College provides a foundational understanding of the healthcare system and prepares students for a variety of entry-level roles within the rapidly growing health sector. While specific coursework can vary, typical learning outcomes include an introduction to medical terminology, basic anatomy and physiology, healthcare ethics and law, patient care principles, and an overview of different allied health professions. Students often develop critical thinking skills, communication abilities, and a strong work ethic essential for patient-facing roles. This program serves as a stepping stone, offering a broad base that can lead to further specialization or direct entry into the workforce.
Career paths for graduates are diverse, often leading to roles such as Medical Assistant, Patient Care Technician, Health Unit Coordinator, or Administrative Assistant in healthcare settings. With experience, individuals can advance to roles like Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) supervisor, or pursue further education to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or registered nurses (RNs). The median earnings for roles directly accessible with this degree are generally in the range of $35,000 to $50,000 annually for entry-level positions. Mid-career professionals, particularly those who have obtained certifications or gained specialized experience, can expect to earn between $45,000 and $65,000. Senior roles or those requiring further licensure could see earnings exceeding $70,000.
Given the "N/A" for median earnings at the 1-year post-graduation mark and a low completion rate of 9 students per year, a direct Return on Investment (ROI) calculation is challenging. However, the cost of an Associate's degree is typically significantly lower than a Bachelor's or advanced degree, making the financial barrier to entry more manageable. The demand for healthcare professionals remains robust across the nation, driven by an aging population and advancements in medical technology. Allied health roles, in particular, are experiencing consistent growth. Practical advice for prospective students includes researching specific career tracks within allied health that align with their interests, exploring opportunities for certifications that can enhance employability and earning potential, and inquiring about articulation agreements with four-year institutions for those considering further education.
Career Paths
Graduates of Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences at Century College can pursue the following career paths:
- Medical Assistant. Median salary: $40,000, Strong growth outlook.
- Patient Care Technician. Median salary: $38,000, Strong growth outlook.
- Health Unit Coordinator. Median salary: $42,000, Moderate growth outlook.
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Median salary: $35,000, Strong growth outlook.
- Healthcare Administrative Assistant. Median salary: $45,000, Moderate growth outlook.
Skills Gained
Key skills developed in this program:
- Medical Terminology
- Basic Patient Care
- Healthcare Ethics
- Communication Skills
- Healthcare Systems Overview
Frequently Asked Questions about Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences at Century College
Is Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. at Century College worth it?
The value of this program at Century College depends on your career aspirations. While specific post-graduation earnings data is unavailable, graduates can enter various allied health roles like Medical Assistant or Patient Care Technician, typically earning $35,000-$50,000 annually. The program offers a cost-effective entry into the healthcare field, which has strong job growth. For higher earning potential, further education or certification beyond this Associate's degree is often necessary. Consider this program a solid foundation for entry-level positions or as a stepping stone to more advanced healthcare careers.
What jobs can I get with a Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. degree?
With an Associate's degree in General Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences from Century College, you can pursue a range of entry-level positions. Common job titles include Medical Assistant, where you'd assist physicians with patient care and administrative tasks, often earning around $40,000. You could also become a Patient Care Technician ($38,000), assisting patients with daily living activities, or a Health Unit Coordinator ($42,000), managing administrative operations in a healthcare unit. Other possibilities include Certified Nursing Assistant ($35,000) or Healthcare Administrative Assistant ($45,000), depending on specific coursework and any additional certifications obtained.
How much do Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. graduates earn?
While specific 1-year post-graduation earnings for this program at Century College are not provided, graduates typically enter roles with entry-level salaries ranging from $35,000 to $50,000 per year. For instance, Certified Nursing Assistants might start around $35,000, while Medical Assistants could begin closer to $40,000. With a few years of experience and potentially additional certifications, mid-career professionals in these fields can expect to earn between $45,000 and $65,000. Senior roles or positions requiring further licensure, such as an LPN or RN (which would require further education beyond this Associate's), can lead to salaries exceeding $70,000.
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- H-1B Visa Salaries — Employer-reported salary data for visa workers
Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.