STCC offers high school equivalency class with a medical science focus

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – For the first time, Springfield Technical Community College this fall will offer a course that helps students get their high school equivalency diploma while introducing them to the field of medical science.

Offered through the Springfield Adult Learning Center at STCC, the class, called HiSET/GED to Medical Sciences, prepares students for the high school equivalency test (HiSET/GED). At the same time, students will learn medical terminology. The class will be offered in three sessions this year with the first beginning Sept. 23. To apply, visit the Adult Basic Education page on the STCC website, stcc.edu.

Katrina Doolittle, director of the Learning Center, said HiSET/GED to Medical Sciences might spark interest in a health care career or inspire students to continue taking college classes after earning a high school equivalency diploma.

STCC offers an associate degree in health science, which provides the opportunity to explore specialty areas for a career in health care. The college also offers a number of specialized health programs such as diagnostic medical sonography, dental hygiene, and nursing, among others. 

“Our HiSET/GED to Medical Sciences class will give an introduction to medical science and help students get on the same level as those who are entering health science programs at STCC,” Doolittle said. “They will be prepared when they take their next step and enroll at STCC. This is a terrific option for students who are highly motivated but don’t have their HiSET/GED yet. I’m really excited about it.”

The Springfield Adult Learning Center is offering the new class in response to workforce demands, said Assistant Vice President of Workforce Development David Buonora.

“Health care is a key workforce area in Western Massachusetts, and the college remains committed to responding to the needs of the region’s employers,” Buonora said. “We know that career opportunities in the health care sector will continue to grow over the next several years. We’re focused on finding new ways to prepare students for these careers.”

The class, which is free for eligible students, will be taught online. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, STCC will offer online classes with a mix of on-campus, low-density labs.

The Learning Center at STCC offers a number of other HiSET/GED options:

• Preparation for the High School Equivalency Test Classes (HiSET/GED)
• Technology Classes (Technology, Digital Literacy and Computer Use)
• College and Career Workshops (Advising and Workforce Readiness Preparation)
• Financial Literacy (explore finances, budgeting and investing while in a HiSET/GED Class)
• Book Club (improve your reading skills while reading in small groups)

To apply or find out more information, visit stcc.edu/explore/communityed/adult-learning. For questions, email SALC@stcc.edu or call (413) 755-4300.

About Springfield Technical Community College

Founded in 1967 and located on 35 acres of the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, STCC is a major resource for the economic vitality of Western Massachusetts. As the only technical community college in Massachusetts, STCC offers a variety of career programs unequalled in the state. STCC’s highly regarded transfer programs in business, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, liberal arts, and STEM fields continue to provide the most affordable options for students pursuing a four-year degree. With an annual enrollment of about 7,000 day, evening, weekend, and online students, STCC is a vibrant campus rich in diversity.

For more information about STCC, visit www.stcc.edu. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter (@S_T_C_C) and Instagram (@stccpics).

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

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