A nurse putting on gloves

How to Start Your Medical Career

Your Guide to Choosing the Healthcare Certificate to Launch Your Career

In 2022 Healthcare workers are extremely in demand, but where do you start? It’s no secret that in order to start a career in healthcare, you need to first take a variety of courses that help you prepare for the work you’ll be doing. Luckily, at Advanced College, we help students in Stockton, South Gate, and Salida get the certificates they need to begin their careers in healthcare. Continue reading below to learn more about the certificates we offer, and when you’re ready, sign up for your first class today.

Why should I Get Certified?

It is a benefit to become certified in your field. Some employers only hire certified professionals, and other employers will pay more for certified medical fields. Being certified means you have passed a test that allowed you to prove you have the basic skills and mastery of that field. Some fields will require that you get certified and renew your certification every few years as well. Something to take into consideration before you pick your program is what state certifications are required (if any) and if you would like to work all over the US, then what certifications are required nationally.

nurse drawing blood from patient

Phlebotomy

Standard Occupational Code (SOC): 31-9097 

The phlebotomy certificate is a great healthcare certificate to start your career in the medical field. This program is designed to give you basic knowledge about blood collection and other specimen procedures. Additionally, this healthcare certificate can also teach you how to prepare patients for blood draws, complete routine lab tests, and more. If you’re looking for a quick healthcare certificate program that will teach you the essentials, this is the perfect choice for you.

Job Titles You Could Be Hired For with a Phelbotomy Certificate: 
Phlebotomist, Phlebotomy Technician, Registered Phlebotomist

Dental Assistant

Standard Occupational Code (SOC): 31-9091 

The dental assistant certificate is another great healthcare certificate to consider. This program offers a variety of courses that cover topics such as patient care and communication, anatomy and physiology, radiology, and more. Additionally, upon completion of this healthcare certificate, you’ll be able to take the Dental Assistant National Board (DANB) certification exam. Passing this exam allows you to work as a dental assistant in any state in the U.S.

Job Titles You Could Be Hired For with a Dental Assistant Certificate: 
Dental Assistant 

female dental assistant smiling at camera
2 nurses

Medical Assistant

Standard Occupational Code (SOC): 31-9092

Looking to work in a hospital or doctor’s office setting? The medical assistant certificate is another great healthcare certificate program to consider if you’re looking for a career in healthcare. This healthcare certificate offers a variety of courses that cover topics such as medical terminology, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology, EKG interpretation, and more. Additionally, upon completion of this healthcare certificate program, you’ll be able to take the National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) exam. Passing this exam allows you to work as a medical assistant and start your new career in the healthcare field.

Job Titles You Could Be Hired For with a Medical Assistant Certificate: 
Medical Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Clinical Assistant, Doctor’s Assistant  

Vocational Nursing

Standard Occupational Code (SOC): 29-2061

If you’re looking for a healthcare certificate program that will allow you to work as a nurse, then the vocational nursing certificate is your best option. This healthcare certificate offers a variety of courses that cover topics such as pharmacology, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, patient care concepts, and more. Additionally, upon completion of this healthcare certificate program, you’ll be able to take the National Council Licensure Examination-Vocational Nursing (NCLEX-PN) exam. Passing this exam allows you to work as a vocational nurse and start your new healthcare career.

Job Titles You Could Be Hired For with a Vocational Nursing Certificate: 
Charge Nurse, Clinical Licensed Practical Nurse (CLINIC LPN); Clinic Nurse; Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN); Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN); Office Nurse; Pediatric Licensed Practical Nurse (PEDIATRIC LPN); Private Duty Nurse

nurse with a female patient

Start Your Medical Career Today

Now is the time to start your career in healthcare, and Advanced College is here to help! Explore our website to learn more about the courses you can take and what you will study. Looking for more than just a certificate? We also have associate degree programs. in Surgical Technology, and Healthcare Management. Contact your local campus and speak with Admissions for more help about each program and where to start your learning journey.

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