Associate in Applied Science - Biomedical Equipment Technician

at MSM Group - Spokane Community College USA

Echocardiography is an Allied Health profession specifically concerning the diagnosis and treatment of patients with cardiac and peripheral vascular disease. The technologist performs examinations at the request or direction of a physician. Through subjective sampling and/or recording, the technologist proceeds with the examination to create an easily definable foundation of data from which a correct anatomic and physiologic diagnosis may be established for each patient.

The primary role of the cardiovascular sonographer is to obtain recordings of ultrasound images of the heart and related structures for the physician to interpret. The various types of ultrasound equipment require a highly skilled operator to obtain the imaging information or other data required. The cardiovascular sonographer must obtain appropriate clinical history, cardiac-related physical findings, and pertinent laboratory data in order to adapt the imaging techniques to obtain comprehensive and diagnostic echocardiographic information.

Learning Outcomes

• Perform high quality noninvasive cardiovascular tests on patients, while tailoring the examinations to bring out abnormalities present. Develop skill in performing m-mode, two-dimensional and doppler echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, exercise tolerance testing, ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring and pacemaker reprogramming and monitoring.
• Quantitate, subjectively evaluate and interpret data collected to assist the physician in arriving at a diagnosis.
• Develop clinical understanding of the anatomy, physiology, pathology, diagnosis and treatment of the major adult and pediatric cardiac diseases and deformities.
• Communicate effectively in a professional manner with physicians, patients and members of health teams.

Cosmetology is a diverse field that offers a variety of employment opportunities. SCC's Cosmetology program provides the education and training needed to successfully compete in today's job market. Upon successful completion of the 1,600-hour program, students are prepared to take the Washington State Examination of Cosmetology. After passing this exam, they will be qualified to receive a license for Cosmetology.

This program includes hair cutting, trimming of facial hair, hair styling, permanent waving, chemical relaxing, tinting and bleaching, and temporary superfluous hair removal; artificial hair; manicuring and pedicuring of natural nails; basic skincare and theory of diseases and disorders of the scalp, skin, hair, and nails; and anatomy as it relates to cosmetology. In addition, safety and sanitation measures are stressed throughout the program. Students also must complete a first aid class. Students will be given review testing and simulated performance evaluations in preparation for the state licensing examination.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate and formulate entry level haircutting techniques.
• Demonstrate and formulate entry level hair color techniques and practices.
• Demonstrate basic manicuring.
• Demonstrate basic skin care.
• Demonstrate and formulate entry level chemical texturizing services.
• Work with minimum supervision in a salon.
• Recognize the importance of, and practice good public relations with customers, employers, and fellow employees.
• Skillfully use tools and equipment safely and in a sanitary manner.
• Demonstrate the ability to successfully complete the state required practical examination for licensure.
• Demonstrate the ability to successfully complete the state required written examination for licensure.

This program prepares individuals for employment in medical offices. Spokane is a major regional center for medical care offering many opportunities for employment. Positions are available in medical clinics, medical insurance companies private physician’s offices, and many other healthcare settings.

Students completing the Medical Office Specialist degree also earn the medical Clerical Certificate and the Medical Reception Certificate, which are embedded in the degree.

Completion of two courses (MSEC 120 and MSEC 121) within the Medical Office Specialist degree allow students to earn and apply for the Peace Studies Certificate at SCC.

Learning Outcomes

• Receive patients and visitors.
• Appropriately manage telephone and electronic communications.
• Schedule appointments and procedures including office, diagnostic, and surgical procedures.
• Apply legal and ethical standards.
• Develop keyboarding skills and use of computer applications.
• Create and maintain patient records.
• File, rebill, and troubleshoot insurance claims for the medical office to include government, PPO, and HMO insurance.
• Code using CPT and ICD-10-CM coding systems.
• Perform typical medical office financial activities using applicable software.
• Correlate knowledge of general anatomy and medical terminology to perform administrative medical assistant duties, as above.

The Criminal Justice curriculum is made up of courses and a carefully selected group of general education requirements designed to prepare each student for a career in the field of criminal justice. These courses prepare students with theory and practical skills in the areas of criminal law, investigations, interview, communications, human relations, and other criminal justice topics.

Students in this field are encouraged to seek academic counseling. Only a portion of this two-year AAS degree is transferable to four-year institutions. Students interested in four-year degrees should inquire at the college to which they plan to transfer for specific information.

Credits from the police academy training can apply toward meeting the course requirements of this program.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply their knowledge and skill toward successful completion of any criminal justice related job screening process.
• Apply their knowledge and skill toward successful completion of basic training in the criminal justice service industry.
• Apply their knowledge and skill to efficiently and effectively complete criminal justice field work.

The Automotive Collision and Refinishing Technician program teaches the skills necessary to succeed in the automotive collision repair industry.  Instruction is primarily in a shop situation where field conditions are simulated.  Students are able to learn by demonstration and direct hands on experience.

Students are instructed in a wide range of skills, including welding, sheet metal repair and replacement, fabrication and restoration techniques, frame and unibody repair, as well as repair and replacement of structural components.

The refinishing portion of our program provides students with a comprehensive education in modern refinishing techniques and materials, as well as material and damage estimation. Students will learn all phases of substrate preparation, color matching and application of the latest paint materials including water born products.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the characteristics of metal and the principles of metal correction.
• Repair damaged bodies, frames, suspensions and sheet metal; remove and replace glass.
• Refinish complete vehicles and spot damaged areas with the latest in refinishing products and equipment.
• Estimate damage costs.
• Understand automotive electrical principles and minor services.
• Weld (wire feed) to industry standards.
• Understand basic shop operation.
• Understand hazardous waste management.
• Demonstrate shop safety practices.

Mechanical Engineering Technology prepares students for advanced mechanical drafting and design using both CAD drafting and Solid Modeling techniques.  The course of study prepares students to work in engineering teams for large and small manufacturing firms, consulting engineering firms, testing, and research companies.

Students learn the design and manufacturing processes required for a product to be developed from the initial concept to final production.  Students not only learn to draft using CAD and Solid Modeling techniques, but also get "hands-on" practical experience in 3D Printing, engineering design projects, and by learning fabrication processes used in industry.  Coursework includes design and assembly techniques as well as shop practice techniques and shop safety.  The course of study includes advanced disciplines of engineering technology such as math, physics, electrical theory, manufacturing, project management, and/or optional studies as available in statics, the strength of materials, chemistry, etc.

Learning Outcomes

• Use the systems, symbols, language and mechanics of the drafting field.
• Skillfully apply computers and engineering office software for documentation, communication, design, and drafting.
• Identify, solve, and apply engineering calculations relevant to a full drafting and design project.
• Work productively in a team environment and/or as an independent drafter/designer when required.
• Work with the sense of responsibility and accuracy required in the field of engineering design and drafting.
• Develop individual and full sets of drafting projects including shop drawings, assembly drawings, schematics, and construction plans using 2-D CAD and 3-D CAD solid modeling.
• Create accurate solid model computer files to transfer to rapid prototypes, CNC use, shop drawings, or engineering designs.
• Identify and select appropriate materials and processing of materials used in industry for a design project.
• Demonstrate basic shop practices in woods, metals, plastics, and composites, including machining, fabrication/welding, assembly and testing for design prototypes.
• Demonstrate global awareness of the impact of efficiency, effectiveness, cost, and sustainability in design.
• Create, track, and maintain an engineering design project from inception through scheduling, drafting, prototyping, costing, and documentation.

The associate in applied science degree in Natural Resource Management prepares students to work in the forestry area. This program is conditionally accredited by the Society of American Foresters. Two additional options are available: Parks and Recreation or Wildlife Fisheries. The Parks and Recreation option prepares students for park maintenance and/or interpretive positions.  The Wildlife/Fisheries option prepares students to perform field sampling as well as habitat restoration work.

All students must complete an internship of at least 400 hours to complete the degree.  Second year: Student may remain in the main program which is forestry based, or they may select one of the two options for an AAS degree which requires a total of 105 credits.

Learning Outcomes

• Identify selected forest trees, shrubs, and forbs native to the Pacific Northwest.
• Use various instruments to measure the height, diameter and age of trees and apply this data to volume, site and growth determinations.
• Identify species and habitat needs of common northwest freshwater fish, birds and wildlife.
• Operate hand compasses, level, global positioning systems, and electronic instruments in determining slopes, turning angles, running traverses, locating ownership boundaries, and determining locations.
• Utilize maps and aerial photographs in the management of natural resources, including through the use of geographic information systems.
• Recognize common diseases and insect pests of forest trees and assess their damage.
• Use the computer as a tool for solving natural resources problems.
• Apply field techniques to sample, measure, and monitor wildlife, birds and fish species and their habitat.
• Demonstrate human relationship skills and professional behavior needed for successful job performance.
• Parks maintenance and equipment.
• Recognize and apply the various silvicultural systems and techniques used in ecosystem management.
• Understand concepts of ecology, conservation and management for fish and wildlife species and their habitats.
• Understand concepts involved in soil science including soil management, conservation, and use of soils in forestry and agriculture.
• Maintain and safely operate a chainsaw.
• Write technical reports and give presentations.

Basic and advanced procedures in food preparation are included in the two-year Culinary Arts program. A detailed study is made of the various cooking methods for meats, fish, poultry, vegetables, soups and sauces. Menu terminology and cooking terms are defined and illustrated. Students are given the opportunity to study management factors affecting food cost control, specifications and standards for foods, sanitation, kitchen planning, kitchen equipment, and personnel policies.

Learning Outcomes

• Prepare and serve food in a first class restaurant environment.
• Develop menus listing menu items for a food service operation.
• Practice safe and sanitary work habits in a first class restaurant establishment.
• Produce menu items accurately from standardized recipes.
• Order, purchase and store foods in a commercial kitchen facility.
• Inventory food products.
• Operate commercial kitchen machinery in a safe manner.
• Calculate the costs of a standardized recipe.
• Prepare fine desserts for a first class restaurant.
• Hire and supervise kitchen employees.

Radiologic technologists are an integral part of the allied health team of healthcare workers providing patient care. Their primary duties include producing radiographic examinations that aid the physicians in diagnosing diseases and/or injuries. The radiologic technologist performs examinations at the request of a physician.

The technologist’s primary role is obtaining top quality radiographic images while providing patient care. Radiologic departments can be found in hospitals, freestanding clinics and physician offices. While in the program the students become proficient at performing examinations in general radiography, fluoroscopy, surgery, trauma and intensive care units.

Upon completion and graduation of the program the students are able to take the national registry examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Each required course for graduation must be completed with a grade of 2.0 or better before proceeding to the next quarter. All clinicals must be completed with a grade of 2.5 or better.

National background checks and drug screening are completed at the beginning of the program and if there is a finding, clinical sites may not accept the student. This could prevent program completion, inability to take the national exam, and future employment due to a failed background check and/or drug screening.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will have skills and knowledge for an entry-level radiographic technologist.
• Students will have the skills to effectively utilize good communication skills.
• Students will have the skills to effectively utilize critical thinking and problem solving skills.
• Students will have the skills to become responsible for lifelong learning through continuing education and/or advancement in the field of radiology.

The Administrative Office Management program is an associate degree program that prepares students to assume positions as office managers, supervisors, or as assistants to top executives.  Students will develop administrative skills necessary to participate as part of the management team; assist in planning, organizing, and controlling information related activities; and in leading or directing people to attain the objectives of the organization.  They may handle a wide range of daily responsibilities including the supervision of support services.

This program is recommended to experienced office staff as well as entry-level office workers who are looking to increase their potential for promotion.  Graduates with this degree receive training in a variety of office management functions including those in communications, information resources, and management.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the principles of human resources supervision and administration including the recruiting and hiring process, training and development, motivating the workforce, completing an appraisal, and improving productivity.
• Organize and plan office work and exercise leadership skills that encourage successful teamwork.
• Demonstrate organizational, planning, and project management skills.
• Appreciate the scope of business operations and economic systems.
• Handle multiple deadlines and priorities in an office setting.
• Think critically and act logically to evaluate situations, solve problems, and make decisions.
• Understand the tools used to make business decisions using quantitative data.
• Compile and analyze data, prepare concise reports and presentations, and use information processing technology and software.
• Compose drafts and final responses to inquiries, letters, and questionnaires.
• Handle a variety of internal and external business forms and understand their purpose.
• Acquire comprehensive knowledge of and ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Project, and Outlook software.
• Operate a variety of business machines, including computer equipment, copy machines and scanners, transcribing equipment, facsimiles, printers, telephones, and calculating machines.