Michigan has one of the best medical education systems in the nation. Allied Heath degrees such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, X-ray technician are offered by several Michigan community colleges and universities. Prospective students can pursue certificates, associates or bachelor degrees in Allied Health related fields. In most cases, Allied Health professionals must also obtain certification or licensure in their chosen field before being able to practice.
Purpose of an Allied Health Professional
The majority of Allied Health fields are generally designed to be support positions that assist physicians and nurses with carrying out their work. Examples of this type of job would be dental hygienist or medical receptionist. Depending on the field, however, some practitioners may work directly to help patients in a one on one basis. One example of this would be a dietitian.
Michigan Community College Programs in Allied Health
There are 28 public community colleges in Michigan. Many of these colleges offer programs in Allied Health fields including physical therapist assistant, medical laboratory technician and more. You can review a list of community colleges at the Michigan Community College Associations website to locate a program that fits your specific needs. Kellogg Community College, for example, offers several areas of specialization within Allied Health fields. Community College offers Certificate of Development in several areas such as EMT training and medical billing and coding. North Central also offers Certificate and AAS programs.
Michigan University Programs in Allied Health
Eastern Michigan University now offers several programs in Allied Health fields, including a Bachelor's of Science degree in therapeutic recreation and a Bachelor's of Science in dietetics. Eastern Michigan University also offers a Bachelor's degree in health administration. Michigan State University also offers a strong dietetics program which is widely considered one of the best in the nation.
Cost Of an Allied Health Program
The cost of pursuing training in an Allied Health field will depend on several factors. Will it require a certificate, or a degree? If a certificate, then your cost can be greatly lowered by attending a small community college. If it requires a degree, then your costs will be higher. Of course, all tuition costs have been rising rapidly across the country, and Michigan is no exception. For the most current information on the cost of a program you are considering, contact the schools financial aid officer or bursar.
Benefits of a Career in Allied Health
Those that possess the necessary skills and credentials to work in a health related field will not only find that it is it personally rewarding, but that it is also a career that offers many other benefits. Health professionals are in great demand across the country, and they are generally very paid well for the services they provide. Employment can be found with hospitals, health departments, private clinics, physician's offices, as well as with some government agencies, depending on the area of specialization.
Tags: Allied Health, Allied Health fields, Health fields, also offers, Community College
