Proprietary schools, colleges, and universities all offer this program. If you want to study at a proprietary school, you can prepare for this program of study by completing your high school degree or getting a GED. If you want to study at a college or university, you can prepare for this program by taking the following courses: four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Certificate programs that require only a high school diploma and GED sometimes also ask that you complete some general education or basic health science courses. Program requirements vary, but sometimes you need to complete these courses before you apply. Other times you can take them during your first term of study. These courses may include the following:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Basic Natural Sciences with lab
• Critical Thinking and Analysis
• English Composition
• Historical Perspectives
• Human Thought and Behavior
• Humanities
• Medical Terminology

You also need certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including neonatal resuscitation.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

• Child Development and Parenting
• Health Education
• Healthcare Occupations
• Home Health Care
• Healthcare Sciences Work Experience
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Psychology