Commencement Career Center in San Antonio offers a comprehensive nursing assistant training program designed to prepare students for the Texas State Nursing Certification Examinations. This program stands out for its hands-on training approach, blending classroom instruction with real-world experience to ensure that graduates are fully equipped to enter the healthcare field. The program spans four weeks and covers a wide range of essential topics, including medical terminology, patient care techniques, and handling complex health conditions. The curriculum emphasizes both lecture-based learning and practical skills training.
Class Structure and Schedule
Students can choose between two convenient class schedules to accommodate their needs: morning classes from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, or evening classes from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. This flexibility makes the program accessible to a variety of students, including those working or with other responsibilities. The course is structured over a four-week period, balancing theoretical knowledge with 40 hours of clinical externship at a long-term care facility, where students apply their newly learned skills in a supervised, real-world setting.
Comprehensive Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to introduce students to key aspects of healthcare, such as body mechanics, infection control, dementia care, and patient positioning. Students will also learn how to handle day-to-day tasks, like bathing and transferring patients. The clinical externship offers invaluable experience in caring for patients in actual healthcare settings, allowing students to gain confidence and competence in their abilities. This combination of classroom and clinical training ensures students graduate with the skills they need to excel in their careers.
Requirements and Admissions
To enroll, applicants must be at least 18 years old and physically capable of completing the program's clinical phase. A high school diploma or GED is not required, but students without either must pass a basic entrance exam. Prospective students must also undergo a background check and clearance through DADS for any findings related to abuse, neglect, or misuse of a resident's property.
Financial Aid and Payment Plans
Commencement Career Center offers a variety of financial assistance options, including in-house financing with customizable payment plans. Additionally, the school partners with external lenders to provide financial aid to students who qualify. This helps reduce the financial burden and allows more students to pursue their education without worrying about upfront costs.
Accreditations and Approval
The program holds a Certificate of Approval from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) and is also approved by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. These accreditations ensure that the program meets high standards of educational quality and compliance with state regulations.
Job Placement Services
Graduates of the program benefit from job placement assistance, which is a key focus at Commencement Career Center. While employment is not guaranteed, the school provides resources and guidance to help students find jobs in healthcare after graduation. The staff encourages students to actively participate in job placement activities, which enhances their chances of securing employment quickly after completing the program.
Overall, Commencement Career Center offers a well-rounded and accredited nursing assistant program that blends flexibility, comprehensive training, and strong post-graduation support. With a balance of classroom learning and hands-on experience, this program equips students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the healthcare field.
