Course Descriptions
Health Science
Listed alphabetically. + Prerequisite required
- Anatomy & Physiology (Semester) +
- Certified Nursing Aid (Semester) +
- Dental Anatomy & Physiology (Semester)
- EKG/ECG
- Health Science Theory (Semester) +
- Introduction to Dental Science (Semester)
- Medical Assistant (Year)
- Medical Microbiology (Semester) +
- Medical Terminology (Semester)
- Pathophysiology (Semester) +
- Pharmacy Technician (Year) +
- Phlebotomy (Semester)
- Practicum in Health Science (Year)
- Principles of Biomedical Science
Anatomy & Physiology (Semester) +
- Level 4 Course (11-12)
- Prerequisite: Biology AND 1 other science credit AND Principles of Health Science
- Course: 0810CT or 8100A/B; Credit: 1
- Length: 18 weeks at Ben Barber (1 semester) or 36 weeks on home campus (2 semesters)
- Students will study the structures and functions of the human body systems. Students will do a comparative study of mammals with an in depth mammalian dissection. Human development, maintenance of homeostasis, transport systems and energy processes will also be topics of study. As part of the laboratory investigative process, students will be active in the dissection of prepared specimens. Note: Course can be used as an additional science credit for graduation. This course will count toward graduation honors GPA.
Certified Nursing Aid (Semester) +
- Level 4 Course (12)
- Prerequisite: Health Science Theory AND any Level 3 Healthcare Therapeutic Course AND selection process
- Course: 1471CT; Credit: 1
- Length: 18 weeks at Ben Barber
- This course, approved by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services, is designed to prepare students for a nursing-related career in a variety of healthcare facilities. Students must provide physical proof of their Social Security card, successfully complete this course, and pass the state written and skills performance exams to be listed in the Texas Registry. They must present two forms of identification per the testing provider Prometric. The following is accepted for high school students: A combination of High School ID with photo and signature AND Birth Certificate with names on both documents matching is acceptable. The classroom portion of the course will be taught at the Ben Barber campus and the clinical experience will be held off campus in a variety of healthcare facilities. Students are expected to perform skills as a nursing aide that may include baths, hand and foot care, adult diapering, and other daily hygiene care to residents while in clinical training. Students will be provided transportation to the clinical site. All students will be required to utilize this transportation. Students should be prepared to submit to a criminal background check, drug screening, TB testing, and to present proof of current immunizations including current flu shots. Some clinical facilities may require proof of completion of the COVID-19 vaccine while attending their site. Course Fees: A $25.00 activity fee to help cover the cost of Liability Insurance, TB test, Urine drug screening, background checks and patch. A $30-$50 fee to purchase a set of scrubs to wear at clinical placement. Possible Certification: +Certified Nursing Assistant*
Dental Anatomy & Physiology (Semester)
- Level 2 Course (10-12)
- Prerequisite: Introduction to Dental Science
- Course: 1461CT; Credit: 1
- Length: 18 weeks at Ben Barber (1 semester)
- A course designed for exploration of the physiology of the head, neck, oral, and dental anatomy. Students will identify and describe functions of anatomical structures, including the bones, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels of the head and neck as well as their relationship to the corresponding body systems. Students will also identify and describe oral, head and neck pathologies, conditions, diagnostic tools, treatments, and professions. While this course is identified as dental, it is well suited for all students interested in pursuing any of the professions involved with the head and neck such as dentistry, otolaryngology, optometry, radiology, audiology, neurology, reconstructive/plastic surgery.
EKG/ECG
- Level 3 Course (11-12)
- Prerequisite: Principles of Health Science AND another Level 3 course AND Selection Process
- Course: 1426CT; Credit: 1
- Length: 18 weeks at Ben Barber (1 semesters)
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This course introduces electrocardiographic devices and their use in testing electrical impulses from the heart. Students learn how to record EKGs, vital signs, cardiac rhythms and stress tests. Also, individuals learn how cardiac emergencies affect EKG changes. The Nationally Registered Certified EKG Technician (NHA) designation demonstrates to colleagues, patients, employers and the public at large that certified individuals have the cardiovascular diagnostic and technical knowledge and proficiency required of the electrocardiogram professional in health care settings. To obtain your National Credentials, you must pass the examination with a score of 80% and meet the NHA eligibility requirements. Categories covered in class include:Cardiac Anatomy & Physiology, Interpretation of rhythms, Wave Interpretation and EKG Operations, Patient Positioning and Safety, Lead Placement and EKG Procedures, Law and Ethics, Legal Terminology Relating to Medical Care, Confidentiality, and Patient Interaction, HIPAA Compliance and OSHA. While enrolled in class, students will be required to perform 10 live EKGs on other same sex peers under direct supervision of the teacher. Possible Certification: +EKG/ECG Technician*
Please note that students who choose to enroll in the EKG/ECG course are not eligible to take the Phlebotomy course.
Health Science Theory (Semester) +
- Level 3 Course (10-12)
- Prerequisite: Biology AND Principles of Health Science
- Course: 1411CT; Credit: 1
- Length: 18 weeks at Ben Barber (1 semester)
- The Health Science Theory course is designed to provide for the development of advanced knowledge and skills related to a wide variety of health careers. Students will employ hands-on experiences for continued knowledge and skill development. Students will effectively demonstrate leadership skills, form a healthcare team, and practice safety guidelines. Students will use legal and ethical guidelines in healthcare to develop professional guidelines to prepare them for upper-level certification classes. Students will gain a working knowledge of health safety guidelines, OSHA, HIPAA guidelines, rules, and regulations in healthcare. Students will explore employment opportunities in diagnostic, therapeutic, health informatics, support services, and biotechnology research and development. To pursue a career in the health science industry, students should recognize, and learn to reason, think critically, make decisions, solve problems, and communicate effectively. Students should recognize that quality health care depends on the ability to work well with others. Students will earn their CPR certificate through the American Heart Association. This course is a prerequisite for ALL Level 4 Health Science courses (with the exception of Pathophysiology).
Introduction to Dental Science (Semester)
- Level 1 Course (9-12)
- Course: 1465CT; Credit: 1
- Length: 18 weeks at Ben Barber (1 semester)
- An introductory health science course designed to initiate secondary students to the field of dentistry and related topics. At the end of the course, students will be able to discuss the history of dentistry; identify dental related career pathways; explain dental legal and ethical responsibilities; recognize professional healthcare behavior and demeanor; and perform basic routine dental office procedures. The purpose of this course is to establish a foundation for future coursework in dental science and prepare secondary students for a future career in dentistry.
Medical Assistant (Year)
- Level 4 Course (12)
- Prerequisite: Health Science Theory AND Phlebotomy OR EKG/ECG AND Selection Process
- Course: 1413CA/CB; Credit: 2
- Length: 36 weeks at Ben Barber (2 semesters)
- In this course, students will have the opportunity to earn a certification as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA). Medical assistants are responsible for preparing patient rooms, maintaining patient records, and assisting physicians during examinations. They work in a variety of healthcare settings including physician’s offices, hospitals, and clinics. Medical Assistant students practice assisting with minor surgery, perform spirometry, EKG (electrocardiogram), phlebotomy, and performing injections. Students should be prepared to utilize math to perform dosage calculations, utilize medical terminology to analyze anatomy and physiology of body systems as they assist physicians in the examination process (in the field). Students are expected to perform capillary (a fingerstick with a small needle for the purpose of a capillary tube being filled with blood or a glucose check, etc.) and venipuncture sticks (inserting a needle into someone’s vein and them inserting a needle into your vein for the purpose of drawing blood), practice injections (injecting sterile saline into someone else’s muscle or under the skin, as they will practice doing the same to you) as well as EKG’s on each other. Course Fee: A $25.00 activity fee to help cover the cost of Liability Insurance, Urine drug screening, & background checks. Many clinical sites require proof of current immunizations and students should be prepared to submit the appropriate documentation. It is the student’s responsibility to adhere to any further requirements set forth by the clinical site prior to site rotations. Students must provide their own transportation to and from the clinical site. A $30-$50 fee to purchase a set of scrubs to wear at clinical placement.
- Possible Certification: +Certified Medical Assistant Certification*
Medical Microbiology (Semester) +
- Level 3 Course (10-12)
- Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry AND Principles of Health Science
- Course: 8120CT; Credit: 1
- Length: 18 weeks at Ben Barber (1 semester)
- Students will study the relationships of microorganisms to wellness and disease. Students will develop knowledge and skills related to disease prevention by learning the chain of infection, asepsis and standard precautions. Medical Microbiology is a lab based course with at least 40% of the course dedicated to hands-on laboratory activities. Students will learn how to complete basic microbiology laboratory procedures. Students will identify pathogenic and nonpathogenic organisms to assist in the understanding of specific diseases, causative agents and treatment options. Students will also identify drug resistant organisms and new and emerging diseases. Note: Course can be used as an additional science credit for graduation. This course will count toward graduation honors GPA.
Medical Terminology (Semester)
- Level 2 Course (9-12)
- Course: 1443CT; Credit: 1
- Length: 18 weeks at Ben Barber (1 semester)
- Students are introduced to the language of medicine while learning the basics of human anatomy. Students will learn the structure of medical terms and will build upon this foundation through each body system unit of study. Special focus will be on the application and use of medical language and terminology as it pertains to body systems, diagnostics testing, and treatments. Medical Terminology is the level 1 introductory class.
Pathophysiology (Semester) +
- Level 4 Course (11-12)
- Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry AND a Level 2 or 3 Health Science Course
- Course: 8125CT; Credit: 1
- Length: 18 weeks at Ben Barber (1 semester)
- This course is designed to allow students to study systemic disease processes and how human systems are affected. Emphasis is placed on the patient assessment to establish the etiology, signs and symptoms, recommended diagnostic testing, resulting in proper patient diagnosis, treatment interventions which lead to a positive patient prognosis and outcome. Prevention of system specific diseases will also be addressed along with how aging affects complications of disease. Students will differentiate between normal structures versus abnormal pathology and physiology. Laboratory investigations will include microscope mastery and mammalian dissections for comparative anatomy. Safety protocols will be established prior to any lab activity to ensure student safety for all. Note: Course can be used as an additional science credit for graduation. This course will count toward graduation honors GPA.
Pharmacy Technician (Year) +
- Level 4 Course (12)
- Prerequisite: Health Science Theory AND any Level 3 Healthcare Therapeutic Course AND Selection Process
- Course: 1421CA/CB; Credit: 2
- Length: 36 weeks at Ben Barber (2 semesters)
- The curriculum will place emphasis on the pharmaceutical,mathematics, and dispensing process knowledge and laboratory skills required of health care workers while offering students the opportunity to add an industry certification to their professional portfolio. Students will be involved in lectures and will have the opportunity to participate in a simulated laboratory clinical pharmacy setting leading to the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) national certification test for Pharmacy Technician. Students who enroll in this course. In order to test for the Pharmacy Technician Certification, a valid federal Identification card will be required. Course Fee: A $30-$50 fee to purchase a set of scrubs to wear at clinical placement. Possible Certification: +Pharmacy Technician
Phlebotomy (Semester)
- Level 3 Course (11-12)
- Prerequisite: Principles of Health Science AND another Level 3 course AND Selection Process
- Course: 1424CT; Credit: 1
- Length: 18 weeks at Ben Barber (1 semester)
-
The Phlebotomy course is an 18-week program designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career as Phlebotomy Technicians. Phlebotomy is a crucial medical procedure involving the collection of blood specimens and venipunctures, which require inserting a needle into a patient's vein. This course equips students with the fundamental knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in this field and become certified Phlebotomy Technicians. This comprehensive program provides both theoretical instruction and hands-on training, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges and responsibilities of a Phlebotomy Technician. The course is open to students in grades 11 and 12 and has specific prerequisites, including successful completion of a Level 3 course and Medical Terminology.
Venipuncture Practice: To develop essential skills, students will not only learn how to perform venipunctures but will also undergo the experience of having venipunctures performed on themselves. This practical approach enhances their empathy and understanding of patient perspectives.
Non-Blood Specimen Collection: In addition to blood collection techniques, students will learn how to collect non-blood specimens, broadening their skillset and versatility as Phlebotomy Technicians.
Please note that students who choose to enroll in the Phlebotomy course are not eligible to take the EKG/ECG course.
Practicum in Health Science (Year)
- Level 4 Course (12)
- Prerequisite: Health Science Theory AND any Level 3 Healthcare Therapeutic Course AND Selection process
- Course: 1431CA/CB; Credit: 2
- Length: 36 weeks at Ben Barber (2 semesters)
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This is an internship program for specific health professions. It is designed for those students who desire further study in a specific health specialty. Students are responsible for individualized study supervised by coordinator and clinical supervisor(s). Students are encouraged to participate in Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), a co-curricular youth organization. Students are directed regarding participation in community service and in HOSA competition/activities. Students will learn multiple advanced practice skills as well as completing multiple research-based projects dealing with various topics related to healthcare. Students will be expected to provide their own transportation to and from the internship sites. Students should be prepared to submit to a criminal background check, drug screening, TB testing, and to present proof of current immunizations including current flu shot and valid Social Security card (for select clinical sites). The classroom portion of this course will be taught at the Ben Barber campus. Course Fee: A $25.00 activity fee to help cover the cost of Liability Insurance, Urine drug screening, and background checks. Many clinical sites require proof of current immunizations and students should be prepared to submit the appropriate documentation. It is the student’s responsibility to adhere to any further requirements set forth by the clinical site prior to site rotations. A $30-$50 fee to purchase a set of scrubs to wear at clinical placement.
Principles of Biomedical Science
- Level 1 Course (9-12)
- Course: 1400CT; Credit: 1
- Length: 18 weeks at Ben Barber (1 semester)
- Principles of Biomedical Science (PBS) serves to provide foundational knowledge and skills in fields such as biology, anatomy & physiology, genetics, microbiology, and epidemiology as well as engage students in how this content can be applied to real world situations, cases, and problems. Through both individual and collaborative team activities, projects, and problems, students will tackle real-world challenges faced by biomedical professionals in the field. They will work with the same tools and equipment used in hospitals and labs as they engage in relevant hands-on work. Students will develop skill in technical documentation to represent and communicate experimental findings and solutions to problems. In addition, students will explore how connections to other disciplines such as computer science and engineering shape the future of medicine and practice collaboration techniques that will help them connect with professionals across any field. This course is weighted.