The Nursing Assistant program at Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) is a well-rounded offering that caters to both aspiring healthcare professionals and those looking to advance their career. The program is divided into two key components: the Basic Healthcare Worker course and the Nursing Assistant course. These courses are designed to provide foundational knowledge and hands-on experience to prepare students for the Florida Board of Nursing certification exam. The program is accredited and recognized across the state, ensuring that graduates receive a solid educational foundation to begin their careers in healthcare.
Course Structure and Format
The program is structured into two separate courses: the Basic Healthcare Worker course, which must be completed first, and the Nursing Assistant course. The Basic Healthcare Worker course introduces students to the healthcare environment, covering essential topics like legal responsibilities, infection control, and employability skills. Upon completion, students progress to the Nursing Assistant course, which emphasizes hands-on training and patient care skills through interactive activities, simulated labs, and clinical rotations.
The program offers flexibility with hybrid learning options, allowing students to choose between traditional classroom settings or a combination of online and in-person coursework. This flexibility makes it easier for working students or those with personal obligations to attend. The clinical component requires students to complete a 40-hour off-site rotation, providing valuable real-world experience.
Program Schedule and Duration
FSCJ's Nursing Assistant program is typically offered during the spring and summer terms, with classes held twice a week in the evenings. This part-time schedule is ideal for students balancing work, family, or other responsibilities. The combination of both courses typically takes a few months to complete, ensuring students receive a comprehensive education without sacrificing too much time away from other commitments.
Program Cost and Financial Aid
The total cost of the program is $1,228, which includes both courses. The Basic Healthcare Worker course costs $429, while the Nursing Assistant course is priced at $799. FSCJ offers several financial aid options for eligible students. Financial assistance is available through programs like the Elizabeth Baptista Carrero Future CNA Scholarship, CareerSource's TANF/SNAP programs, and the Goodwill A-Step Program. Additionally, students can take advantage of FSCJ’s payment plans, allowing for installment payments leading up to the start of the course.
Required Materials and Resources
In addition to tuition, students are required to purchase scrubs, a stethoscope, a blood pressure cuff, and a wristwatch. FSCJ partners with Meridy’s for scrub orders, offering an easy online portal for students to purchase their uniforms. Online course materials and textbooks are also necessary, and students are expected to purchase a Cengage Unlimited subscription to access essential resources like MindTap and eTextbooks.
Accreditation and Certification Preparation
The FSCJ Nursing Assistant program is fully accredited and meets all requirements to prepare students for the Florida Board of Nursing certification exam. Upon successful completion of the program, students will receive a certificate of completion, along with a sharable digital badge. This badge can be used to enhance professional profiles, signaling qualifications to potential employers. The program is designed to ensure students are not only ready to pass their certification exam but also equipped with the skills needed to excel in the healthcare field.
Overall, FSCJ’s Nursing Assistant program is a comprehensive, flexible, and affordable option for students looking to begin or further their careers in healthcare. With hybrid learning options, extensive financial aid opportunities, and a robust curriculum that includes clinical experience, this program stands out as a top choice for prospective students in Jacksonville and the surrounding areas.
