Description:
This program provides students with the opportunity to explore three different tracks: nursing, dental or veterinary. The first year introduces the students to careers in health sciences. Students study anatomy, physiology, nutrition, diet therapy, and complete a medical research project through field trips, demonstrations, and classroom instruction. The second year prepares the student in basic health science skills, body mechanics, aseptic techniques, and medical terminology. Students are placed in clinical experiences of their choice during the second semester. The Health Science Careers Program also serves as a foundation for further education in a technical school or college.
Curriculum:
Year 1:
Principles of Biomedical Science (first semester)
In the introductory course of the PLTW Biomedical Science program, students explore concepts of biology and medicine to determine factors that led to the death of a fictional person. While investigating the case, students examine autopsy reports, investigate medical history, and explore medical treatments that might have prolonged the person’s life. The activities and projects introduce students to human physiology, basic biology, medicine, and research processes while allowing them to design their own experiments to solve problems.
Human Body Systems (second semester)
Students examine the interactions of human body systems as they explore identity, power, movement, protection, and homeostasis in the body. Exploring science in action, students build organs and tissues on a skeletal Maniken®; use data acquisition software to monitor body functions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary action, and respiration; and take on the roles of biomedical professionals to solve real-world medical cases
Year 2:
Medical Interventions
Students follow the life of a fictitious family as they investigate how to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Students explore how to detect and fight infection; screen and evaluate the code in human DNA; evaluate cancer treatment options; and prevail when the organs of the body begin to fail. Through real-world cases, students are exposed to a range of interventions related to immunology, surgery, genetics, pharmacology, medical devices, and diagnostics.
Certifications:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
First Aid & CPR
Dental X-ray/Infection Control
Certified Residential Medication Aide
Dual Enrollment:
Central Maine Community College
Suggested Integrated Academic Credit:
English
Science
Career Opportunities:
Personal Support Specialist (PSS)
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Dental Aide
Veterinary Aide
Physical Therapy Aide
Rehabilitation Aide
Requirements:
16 Years Old
11th Grade Reading & Writing Level
Positive Attendance History