Kristi Cutsinger
NCMC Director of Health Sciences

North Central Missouri College offers a variety of health science programs for students seeking to enter the healthcare field or expand their current skills and qualifications, according to Kristi Cutsinger, director of health sciences at NCMC.

Cutsinger said the college provides options for those starting a new career path as well as those looking to build on existing experience.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 1.9 million healthcare openings are projected each year, on average, because of industry growth and replacement needs. While many people first think of doctors and nurses, Cutsinger noted there are many other career opportunities in healthcare.

NCMC offers associate degree programs in pharmacy technician, paramedic, medical assistant, medical laboratory technician, occupational therapy assistant, respiratory care, radiologic technology, surgical technology and diagnostic medical sonography.

The college also offers certificate programs in pharmacy technician, medical coding and billing, and computed tomography.

Most health science programs require a combination of online or in-person coursework, along with mandatory labs and clinical rotations at healthcare facilities. Some programs also require students to travel two to three days each semester to another campus, including the Savannah campus.

Depending on the program, Cutsinger said the coursework may offer flexibility for working adults completing their degree.

Persons interested in learning more about health science opportunities at NCMC may schedule an appointment with Cutsinger to discuss questions about the programs. She can be contacted by email at kcutsinger@pirates.ncmissouri.edu.

More information is also available on the NCMC website by selecting “Menu,” then “Degrees, Certificates & Programs,” followed by “Degrees & Certificates” and “Nursing & Health Science.”