The Pre-Professional Health program at Northeast Community College is designed for students interested in pursuing a health science career in the following emphases so they may complete an Associate of Science or Associate of Arts degree prior to transferring to another school to complete their bachelor’s degree.
Associate of Science Degrees:
- Pre-Dietetics
- Pre-Medical Assisting
- Pre-Medicine
- Pre-Pharmacy
- Pre-Radiologic Technology
- Pre-Respiratory Care
- Pre-Surgical Technology
Associate of Arts Degrees:
- Pre-Dentistry
- Pre-Dietetics
- Pre-Medicine
- Pre-Mortuary Science
- Pre-Pharmacy
- Pre-Radiologic Technology
- Pre-Respiratory Care
- Pre-Surgical Technology
The following programs offer a collaborative educational pathway for students aspiring to enter these health fields. In partnership with Southeast Community College, students complete general education and academic support courses through Northeast, while specialized courses are delivered online by Southeast Community College (SECC). Clinical experiences are arranged in cooperation with Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk, and other area hospitals, providing hands-on training in real-world healthcare settings.
- Pre-Professional Radiologic Technology
- In addition to courses and clinical experience, a radiation technology job shadowing experience is also required by Southeast Community College prior to being accepted in the program. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science degree from Southeast Community College and become eligible to take the national examination of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), leading to the designation R.T. (R) (ARRT).
- Pre-Professional Respiratory Care
- Students may complete over 30 credit hours at Northeast to qualify for admission into the SECC program. Application is made during the final semester of completing pre-requisite courses. By applying for the distance program at SECC, you are able to complete the program within the Northeast geographic area. In the SECC Respiratory Care distance program, all course work is done online. Laboratory and clinical education is arranged by agreement with area hospitals and care facilities. SECC admits students in July for this eighteen-month program.
- As a graduate of the program, you will earn an Associate of Applied Science degree from Southeast Community College and are eligible to take the national examinations and apply for a license from the State Health Department.
- Pre-Professional Surgical Technology
- The program provides a planned course of classroom study and clinical practice in operating room techniques and principles of asepsis. As a graduate of the program, you will earn an Associate of Applied Science degree from Southeast Community College and will be eligible to take the National Certification Examination for certified surgical technologist status.
Why Students Choose This Program
At Northeast Community College, you’ll find a wide range of course options, giving you the chance to explore your interests and customize your education. Plus, with small class sizes, you’ll get more personal attention from instructors and have a better opportunity to engage in discussions and collaborate with other students.
Students complete foundational courses through Northeast Community College, allowing them to stay local and avoid the costs of relocating. Many courses are also available online, giving students the flexibility to balance their education with work or personal commitments. By starting at Northeast, students save on tuition by completing essential foundational courses at a lower cost—building a strong academic base before transferring to a four-year institution and ultimately reducing the overall cost of their degree.
Northeast Community College has developed articulation agreements with many four-year colleges and universities, ensuring smooth credit transfers for students pursuing a bachelor's degree. For students planning to transfer, it's important to work closely with academic advisors at both Northeast and the transfer institution, utilizing the Transfer Guide to make informed course selections that align with your transfer goals.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
The Pre-Health programs at Northeast Community College give students a well-rounded foundation for success in health related areas. With a mix of interactive coursework and practical projects, students gain the skills they need for both continued education and future careers. The courses focus on critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving, so students are well-prepared to succeed when they transfer to a four-year college. Students in the Pre-Professional Surgical Technology, Pre-Professional Respiratory Care, and Pre-Professional Radiologic Technology programs will complete laboratory and clinical education with area hospitals and care facilities.
The program includes a diverse range of courses designed to provide students with a foundational knowledge, including:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Behavioral and Social Sciences
- Comprehensive Medical Terminology
Program Details
Associate of Arts, 2 years (60-64 credits)
Associate of Science, 2 years (60-69 credits)
Courses are offered in-person, online or in a hybrid format.
The application for admission at Northeast is free. Apply for admission, and learn more about your next steps.
