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How to choose a health care program

Choosing any educational program is a big decision! A majority of healthcare programs involve a large commitment of time, energy, and resources. The following tips are designed to assist you when researching healthcare educational programs.

Questions to think about and ask yourself when researching programs to make sure the program meets your needs

1. What kind of healthcare do I want to do once I complete a program?
   There are many different options to choose from for careers in healthcare. Some examples are caring for patients, management, administrative, technology and service positions.
2. How long will it take to complete the program?
   Depending on the healthcare program you choose, programs can range from a few weeks to years.
3. Do I need to be a full-time or part-time student? Do I prefer to go to school during the week or weekends? At night or during the day?
   The program you choose to fit with your lifestyle may offer full-time and part-time schedules. The program may also offer classes with some flexibility to attend during the week, weekend, or on-line courses.
4. When is a good time for me to start in a program?
   Some considerations may be your personal health, finances and family.

Questions to ask of the programs you are researching

1. Is the college accredited? Is the program I am researching accredited?
   A college or program is granted accreditation when the Accrediting body for the profession has determined the college or program meets applicable standards. Be aware that even if a college is accredited, the program you are researching may not be accredited. Some employers may require that a new graduate is from an accredited school and in addition, an accredited program. Also, some healthcare professions require an individual to be a graduate from an accredited program in order to take the licensure or certification exam.
2. What is the passing rate for the licensure or certification exam for the last three years?
   Some healthcare programs require a licensure or certification exam upon completion of the program. This information may be helpful when researching other programs and determining which program you want to attend.
3. How many new graduates of the program find positions within 6 months of graduation? Does your school assist with job placement?
   Some schools have a career center that assists their students with finding positions upon graduation. This information may be helpful when researching other programs and determining which school you want to attend.
4. What hours and times are the program offered?
   The program may offer classes on-campus, at satellite locations or on-line allowing some flexibility to attend during the day, at night or on the weekends.
5. What is the college and programs' philosophy?
   This information may be helpful in determining if the program matches with your beliefs and values.
6. How much does the program cost? What are the related costs?
   Tuition and related costs (i.e. parking, books, etc.) vary from program to program. You may want to talk with an Admissions Representative to find out the details regarding the full cost of the program.
7. Is there financial aid available?
   You will want to check with the school's financial aid department to find out what options may be available to you.

Questions to ask potential employers once program research is completed

1. Does your organization hire new graduates into this career?
2. If yes, what are the job requirements?
3. What type of schedules are available for this position (i.e. hours, weekends, shifts, etc.)?
4. What is the minimum starting pay for this position?