College of Technology

Department of Health Professions

Anne Delaney, Chair

Special Degree and Certificate Requirements

The Health Professions Department of the University of Montana-Missoula seeks to prepare students to be health practitioners who are technically competent and who are effective in a variety of clinical, agency and community settings. The Health Professions Department offers four Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degrees, one Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree, and two certificate programs with courses and learning experiences that contribute to understanding the health needs of individuals and society. Clinical affiliations and on-site experiences are essential elements of all programs; local communities, their agencies, and organizations are a valuable resource and provide cooperative learning experiences in health delivery systems. The goals of the Health Professions Department are:

  1. To provide programs of study which integrate a variety of health-related disciplines to prepare students for careers in health professions.
  2. To contribute to the liberal education of students through courses designed to provide an understanding of human health, fitness and health delivery systems.
  3. To meet the continuing education needs of health professionals.

The Health Professions Department offers A.A.S. degrees in Medical Assisting, Registered Nursing (ASRN), Radiologic Technology, Respiratory Care, Surgical Technology and certificates in Practical Nursing (PN) and Pharmacy Technology. Admission to a specific Health Professions (HP) program requires documented completion of the general health core curriculum as required by the specific HP program to which the student is applying. The general health core curriculum is different for each HP program and is listed in the specific program description in this catalog. A general health core curriculum course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times. Any general health core course required for an HP program must be taken prior to acceptance into the program. Additional requirements for admission to each of the HP programs vary and are also listed in the specific program descriptions.

Students enter the University of Montana-Missoula as prehealth majors and select courses from the general health core curriculum after conferring with an HP advisor. Assessment of writing for placement in writing courses follows University guidelines and is offered during orientation and at various times during the semester. Math placement is determined by a placement test such as COMPASS. Placement testing assures that students are enrolled in the appropriate course to ensure success in writing and math studies.

Admission into a health program requires a completed application for the specific program to which the student is applying, with documented completion of the program specific general health core curriculum. For program specific admission requirements and grade point average (GPA) expectations, please refer to the individual program descriptions or contact the specific HP Program Director.

Applications can be obtained on the respective HP Program webpage. Students must submit a separate application to each HP program they desire admission to. If a student is accepted to multiple programs, the student can only accept admission to one HP program and must decline admission to the other program(s). Deadlines for applications are April 1 and November 1.

Students provide proof of the following health requirements prior to beginning the clinical portion of HP programs:

  1. Tuberculosis testing using the purified protein derivative (PPD) or chest x-ray (positive results will require a physician’s letter before a student can continue in clinical settings).
  2. Hepatitis B vaccine (HBV) for clinical experiences with potential exposure to blood-borne pathogens. A three-injection series is required and may be obtained at Curry Health Center or other health care providers. Students are urged to begin this series as soon as notified of acceptance into an HP program. An acceptable level of hepatitis B immunity must be demonstrated by a post vaccination titer test performed by a medical laboratory.
  3. American Heart Association adult, child and infant CPR certification for health care providers.
  4. Eye exams are required for surgical technology students due to work with lasers in surgery.
  5. Respiratory care students must pass neonatal resuscitation (NRP) prior to their neonatal clinical experience. Respiratory care students are also required to have a physical exam, a tenpane drug screen, and a police backgrounds check prior to entering clinical experiences.
  6. Medical Assisting student must complete First Aid certification.

Many licensing bodies/employing institutions in health care have increasingly stringent requirements and background checks as conditions for licensing or employment. If students have a concern about this they should contact the licensing board for their specialty (contact information may be obtained from appropriate HP Program Director).

Course Fees and Supplies

Most programs in the Health Professions Department include courses with course fees and special supplies requirements. To obtain a complete listing of these additional items and costs, call the College of Technology Admissions Office at 406- 243-7865.

Health Professions Core Curriculum

The core curriculum is different for each HP program and is listed in the specific program description Some program courses may not be offered in all semesters. Consult the HP Program Director or Program Advisor regarding which courses to take and when to enroll.

There are other courses which will enhance HP program studies and improve a student’s ability to provide quality health care. Students may take these additional courses prior to acceptance to a HP program. Courses should be selected with the assistance of an approved HP program advisor, as taking too many courses may adversely affect financial aid. Theses courses include, but are not limited to:

Medical Assisting-A.A.S. Degree

Jacqueline (Jacki) Elam, Program Director

Students in Medical Assisting are trained in front office administrative skills and back office clinical skills to assist healthcare practitioners in administering to the needs of patients. Students gain skills in scheduling, medical office accounting systems, medical coding and billing, transcription, phone triage and are trained to assist with medical examinations and treatment and to work as a team member in the medical office environment. Students learn to take medical histories and obtain vital signs, give medications and injections (under supervision), draw blood, perform diagnostic tests and office laboratory procedures, sterilize instruments and maintain equipment. Additionally, medical assisting students are exposed to the principles of medical ethics and medical legal issues facing health care providers. Students successfully completing the program are awarded the Associate of Applied Science degree.

Students entering the Medical Assisting program must have earned a “C” or better in all courses of the health core curriculum listed below. A course may be attempted a maximum of two times. As some courses are offered fall or spring semester only, it is important to obtain advising with the Program Director each semester prior to registering for the next semester. Students may apply for either autumn or spring semester program admission.

Upon award of the A.A.S. degree in Medical Assisting, students are eligible to take the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) national registration exam administered by the American Medical Technologists upon completion of the program. Students are responsible for filing required forms, associated fees, and grade transcripts.

General Health Core Curriculum

to be successfully completed prior to entering the program. A general health core curriculum course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times.

CRT 100 Computer Literacy or competency2
MAT 100 Intermediate Algebra3
MED 154T Beginning Medical Terminology2
SCN 201N Anatomy and Physiology4
WTS 115 Technical Writing3
Total14

Medical Assisting Program Curriculum

First Year A S
ACC 131T Essentials of Accounting 4 -
COM 150S Interpersonal Communications - 3
COM 210E Critical Thinking and Analysis - 3
CRT 108 Word Processing2 -
MED 161T Medical Administrative Procedures 4 -
MED 295T Terminology for Health Professions 3 -
PSY 100S Introduction to Psychology - 3
SCN 202N Anatomy & Physiology- 4
Total 13 13
Second Year A S
MED 153T Insurance Processing3 -
MED 155T Medical Software Applications- 1
MED 201T Medical Assisting Clinical Procedures I 4 -
MED 202T Medical Assisting Internship I 1 -
MED 203T Medical Assisting Procedures II- 3
MED 204T Medical Assisting Internship II - 3
MED 256T Medical Transcription I - 3
PHA 195T Pharmacological Products 3 -
PSY 185 Human Development- 3
Total11 13

Pharmacy Technology-Certificate

Mary McHugh, Program Director

In the Pharmacy Technology Program at the University of Montana-College of Technology, students are prepared to function in hospital-based pharmacies and retail pharmacies. The two semesters of the program include classroom, lab, and clinical site learning opportunities. Lab and internship hours allow students to integrate their classroom knowledge into the practical setting. Students are required to rotate to clinical sites and some may be outside the Missoula area.

The Pharmacy Technology Program is an Autumn entry program. Applicants to the Pharmacy Technology program must complete the program specific application packet and have earned a “B” or better in all health core courses listed below. A course may be attempted a maximum of two times. Once accepted into the program, all students are expected to complete the PHA classes with a B or higher. In addition, a keyboarding speed of 35 WPM is required for all Pharmacy Technician applicants.

After successfully completing the program, students are awarded a certificate of Completion and are well prepared and encouraged to sit for the national technician certification examination offered through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). The Pharmacy Technology program is accredited by the American Society of Health System Pharmacists (ASHP).).

General Health Core Curriculum

to be successfully completed prior to application to the program. A general health core curriculum course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times.:

CRT 100 Computer Literacy or Competence(2)
WTS 115 Technical Writing or WTS 101 English Composition 3
MAT 100 Intermediate Algebra or MAT 117 Probability and Linear Math 3
MED 154T Beginning Medical Terminology 2
Total 8-10

Pharmacy Technology Program Curriculum:

First Year A S
COM 150S Interpersonal Communications 3 -
PSY 110S Organizational Psychology - 3
PHA 100T Introduction to Pharmacy Practice 3 -
PHA 101T Pharmacy Calculations 3 -
PHA 102T Pharmacology 6 -
PHA 103T Hospital and Community Practice* - 6
PHA 105T Internship - 5
Total 15 14

*In order to facilitate access to the laboratory, PHA 103T, Hospital and Community Practice, may be offered during the time period of January through May. The program director will provide a complete schedule at the beginning of the autumn semester.

Practical Nursing-Certificate

Margaret Wafstet, Program Director

The College of Technology offers a Practical Nursing (PN) certificate program and an Associate of Science degree(AS) in Nursing. Applicants for the PN program must have a high school diploma or equivalency, have completed the general health core curriculum courses with a minimum grade of C, except in SCN 201N and 202N which requires a B or higher grade, and possess a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75.

Admission to the program also requires completion of the application which can be obtained on the PN webpage.

Application deadlines are April 1 and November 1. A student may apply while enrolled in the general health core curriculum with acceptance to the program to be determined after the currently completed semester grades are finalized.

The 20 students who meet the selection criteria will be accepted into the nursing portion of the program. Applicants must prove computer literacy either by successfully passing a challenge examination or transferring in an equivalent course or passing CRT 100. Students learn practical nursing skills through independent study, lectures, demonstrations, and practice in a nursing skills lab. Under instructor supervision, students also provide patient care in a variety of health care settings. The program is approved by the Montana State Board of Nursing. Accreditation by the National League for Nursing (NLN) is being sought.

Students must provide proof of the following health requirements to the PN Program Director prior to entry into the clinical portion of the program: tuberculosis testing using the PPD (Purified Protein Derivative) or chest x-ray (positive results will require a physician’s letter before a student an continue in clinical settings); hepatitis B vaccine (HBV), a three injection series that may be obtained at Curry health Center and other health care providers, and CPR training for health care providers.

Many licensing bodies/employing institutions in health care have increasingly stringent requirements and background checks as conditions for licensing or employment. If students have a concern about this, they should contact the licensing board for nursing at dlibsdnur@mt.gov.

PN program graduates are eligible to write the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX) for Practical Nurses. After licensure, graduates typically find employment in hospitals, nursing homes, physician offices and other health care agencies. They work under the supervision of a registered nurse, physician, dentist, osteopath or other health care provider as specified in the State of Montana Nurse Practice Act.

General Health Core Curriculum

to be completed prior to application to the program A general health core curriculum course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times.

 A/S
CHEM 151N General and Inorganic Chemistry 3
CHEM 153 General and Inorganic Chem Lab 1
MAT 117 Probability and Linear Mathematics 3
NUR 195 Introduction to Nursing1
PSY 201 Human Development Through the Life Span 3
SCN 150N Nutrition 2
SCN 201N-202N Anatomy and Physiology 8
WTS 101 English Composition (requires a placement test) 3

Student who have begun the PN program under an earlier catalog will have a slightly different course of study. Please see a program advisor for the correct schedule of courses.

Courses listed below will not be offered until the 2007-2008 school year.

First YearAS
NUR 220 Pharmacology3 -
NUR 221 Fundamentals of Nursing 7 -
NUR 222 Gerontology 2 -
NUR 223 Core Concepts of Adult Nursing - 7
NUR 224 Core Concepts of Maternal/Child Nursing - 3
NUR 225 Nursing Care of Clients with Alterations in Psychosocial Integrity - 2
Total 12 12

Registered Nursing-A.S. Degree

Margaret Wafstet, Program Director

The Associate of Science degree program articulates with the PN program and requires at least two further semesters of full-time study. Applicants must have completed a PN program with the general education courses listed in the practical nursing course of study, have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75, possess and maintain a current unencumbered LPN license, submit three letters of reference from employers or former instructors, produce a proctored essay and possibly come before the interview committee prior to being accepted into the A.S. program. The number of students accepted into the A.S. program is limited to 10 each autumn and spring. Application deadlines are April 1 and November 1. All candidates who meet the admission requirements will be considered. The A.S. degree program is approved by the State Board of Nursing and is seeking NLN accreditation. The requirements for CPR, Hepatitis B vaccination and TB testing are the same as are required for the Practical Nursing student prior to beginning in clinical setting.

There is further skill development in the A.S. degree program, in lecture, lab and clinical settings. The A.S. program allows an LPN to have a career and go to college, as the schedule offers courses online, on weekends and/or in the evening. Upon completion, graduates earn an Associate of Science degree in Nursing (ASRN) and are eligible to write the NCLEX for Registered Nurses. Graduates are prepared for employment as registered nurses in acute care facilities, geriatric care centers, industrial setting, and in public and private health care agencies.

The course of study will be different in the 2008-2009 catalog. Please see a program advisor for the most current sequence of classes.

First Year A S
BIOL 106N Elementary Medical Microbiology - 3
CHEM 151N General and Inorganic Chemistry (required if student has not taken with Practical Nursing curriculum) 3 -
CHEM 153 General and Inorganic Chem Lab (required if student has not taken with Practical Nursing curriculum) 1 -
COM 150S Interpersonal Communication - 3
NUR 240 LPN to RN Transition 2 -
NUR 250 Mental Health Nursing Needs 2 -
NUR 260 Advanced Obstetrics and Pediatrics - 3
NUR 265 Advanced Adult Physiological Needs - 3
NUR 275 Management, Ethics and Internship - 2
SCN 220 Human Physiology (required if student has not taken SCN 202) 4 -
SOC 110S Principles of Sociology - 3
Total 13 17

Radiologic Technology-A.A.S. Degree

Anne Delaney, Program Director

A Radiologic Technologist uses critical thinking and independent judgment to obtain a diagnostic imaging study while maintaining quality patient care and minimizing radiation exposure. Technologists are employed in acute care settings, ambulatory care settings, physicians’ offices, in education, and in management or sales positions. With additional education and training, radiographers may be employed in radiation therapy, computed tomography, mammography, magnetic resonance imaging, diagnostic medical sonography, nuclear medicine, special vascular imaging and cardiac catheterization.

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Radiologic Technology requires students to successfully complete the general health care core curriculum prior to applying to the program. Students admitted to the University of Montana- Missoula may enroll in the general health core curriculum courses. Students must pass SCN 201N-202N with a minimum grade of ‘B’ and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 in the general health core courses to apply to the Radiologic Technology program. Application to the program is required spring semester the year prior to the autumn semester program start. Students may apply while enrolled in the general health core curriculum with acceptance to the program to be determined after spring grades are finalized.

The program classes begin autumn semester each year with four semesters consisting of classroom and clinical education. A ten-week summer clinical rotation is required between the first and second years and consists of 40 hour per week of clinical instruction.

Once accepted in the program, all students are expected to complete SCN 202N and all courses with a RAD rubric with a minimum grade of “B” to continue in the program. Students will be expected to participate in the clinical setting during winter session between autumn and spring semester the second year.

The Radiologic Technology program is approved by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and accredited by the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges. When all requirements for the associate degree are completed, the student will be eligible to take the national certification examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Upon successful completion of this examination, the student becomes a Registered Radiologic Technologist , R.T.(R)ARRT. Students entering the program are required to rotate to clinical sites outside the Missoula area on a periodic basis. These rotations will take place during any term or session of the second year. These sites may include, but are not limited to, Ronan, Hamilton, and Polson, Montana. Transportation and housing are the student’s responsibility.

General Health Core Curriculum

To be successfully completed prior to application to the program. A general health core curriculum course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times.:

CRT 100 Computer Literacy or competence2
MAT 100 Intermediate Algebra 3
SCN 175T Integrated Sciences 3
SCN 201N Anatomy and Physiology 4
Total 12

Radiologic Technology Program Curriculum

First YearA S
WTS 115 Technical Writing 3 -
COM 160A Oral Communications- 3
RAD 110T Introduction to Radiology and Patient Care 3 -
RAD 111T Radiological Procedures I 3 -
RAD 121T Radiographic Imaging I - 4
RAD 151T Radiographic Clinical Education I - 4
RAD 211T Radiological Procedures II- 3
SCN 202N Anatomy and Physiology 4 -
Total 13 14
Summer Session 
RAD 161T Radiographic Clinical Education II 10
Total10
Second Year A S
PSY 110S Organizational Psychology - 3
RAD 122T Radiographic Imaging II3 -
RAD 141T Radiographic Protection 2 -
RAD 245T Radiographic Analysis- 2
RAD 251T Radiographic Clinical Education III 6 -
RAD 261T Radiographic Clinical Education IV - 6
SCN 195T Science Learning- 1
Total 11 12

Respiratory Care-A.A.S. Degree

Robert Wafstet, Program Director

Respiratory Care is an allied health speciality. It is an important part of modern medicine and health care.

Respiratory Care encompasses the care of patients with respiratory problems in the hospital, clinic, and home. Respiratory therapists, as members of a team of health care professionals, work to evaluate, treat, and manage patients of all ages with respiratory illnesses and other cardiopulmonary disorders in a wide variety of clinical settings. Respiratory therapists must behave in a manner consistent with the standards and ethics of all health care professionals. In addition to performing respiratory care procedures, respiratory therapists are involved in clinical decision-making (such s patient evaluation, treatment selection, and assessment of treatment efficacy) and patient education The scope of practice for respiratory therapy includes but is not limited to:

Starting salaries are excellent with premiums paid for evening, night, and weekend shifts. Jobs are plentiful throughout the United States. Graduates are eligible to take the credentialing examinations administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) which lead to the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential. Licensure requirements in the state of Montana also are met by successful completion of the NBRC Entry Level (CRT) examination.

The program is 4 ½ semesters in length which includes the Health Care Core and a summer session. Approximate cost for in-state residents is $11,400 and for out-of-state residents, $22,000.

The Respiratory Care program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), 35 East Wacker Drive, Suite 1970, Chicago, IL 60601, (312) 553-9355. Graduates receive the degree of Associate of Applied Science in Respiratory Care. Students accepted to the program are required to rotate to clinical sites outside the Missoula area on a periodic basis. These rotations take place during the spring semester, summer session and autumn semester of the second year. These sites may include, but are not limited to: Kalispell, Ronan, Polson, Butte, Billings, Bozeman, Hamilton, Lewiston, Idaho and Spokane, Washington. Transportation and housing are the student’s responsibility.

Program Admission Requirements

  1. Completion of all general health core courses with a minimum 2.75 GPA in the core courses.
  2. Minimum grade of B minus in SCN 201N and SCN 202N.
  3. Previous health care experience is preferred. Applicants are required to “job shadow” a Respiratory Care practitioner in the workplace. Consult the Respiratory Care Program Director for details.
  4. Submit completed application packet to the HP Administrative Assistant by April 1 for autumn entry into the program.

Note: If a student has not completed the general health core courses until the end of summer session, he/she should still apply in spring semester and request a provisional acceptance contingent upon successful completion of general health core courses during the summer session.

General Health Core Curriculum

to be successfully completed prior to application to the program. A general health core curriculum course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times.

CRT 100 or equivalent 2
MAT 100 Intermediate Algebra or MAT 117 Probability and Linear Math3
PSY 110S Organizational Psychology 3
SCN 201N-202N Anatomy and Physiology 8
WTS 115 Technical Writing or WTS 101 English Composition 3

Respiratory Care Program Curriculum

Autumn EntryAS
RES 120T Ethics and Health Care Communication 2 -
RES 129T Patient Care and Assessment 4 -
RES 131T Respiratory Care Fundamentals 6 -
RES 133T Respiratory Care Pharmacology 3-
RES 150T Respiratory Care Laboratory I 1 -
RES 231T Respiratory Critical Care - 4
RES 232T Respiratory Pathology and Disease - 3
RES 235T Cardiopulmonary Anatomy and Physiology - 3
RES 250T Respiratory Care Laboratory II - 2
RES 255T Clinical Experience I - 5
Total 16 17
Summer Session 
RES 260T Respiratory Care Laboratory III 1
RES 265T Clinical Experience II 6
Total 7
Autumn Semester A
RES 241T Perinatal and Pediatric Respiratory Care 3
RES 242T Respiratory Management1
RES 252T Respiratory Care Review 2
RES 270T Respiratory Care Laboratory IV 2
RES 275T Clinical Experience III 7
Total 15

Surgical Technology-A.A.S. Degree

Debbie Fillmore, Program Director

Students in the Surgical Technology program are educated to be surgical technologists who work as part of the surgical team to ensure the operative procedure is conducted under optimal conditions. The ST is responsible for three phases (preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative) of patient care with minimal direction. All surgical team members must adhere to the principles of asepsis and the practice of sterile technique. The ST normally functions in a sterile capacity, passing instruments, equipment and supplies to the surgeon during the surgical procedure but may also perform many non-sterile duties throughout the workday.

The Associate of Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.) In Surgical Technology requires students to successfully complete the general health core curriculum classes prior to applying to the program. Students admitted to the University of Montana-Missoula may enroll in the general health core curriculum courses. The surgical technology-specific courses begin spring semester. Students must apply to the ST program by November 1. Student may apply while enrolled in the general health core curriculum with acceptance to the program to be determined after fall grades are finalized. Once accepted to the program, a student must complete each surgical technology-specific course with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (2.0) in order to continue in the ST program. A student is expected to become a member of the Association of Surgical Technologists (www.ast.org). A student anticipating program completion will write the National Certification Exam. A student who successfully completes the ST program is awarded an A.A.S. degree in Surgical Technology. The credential of Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) will be awarded to a student upon passing the National Certification Exam and graduation from the ST program.

Students are required to rotate sites during the clinical portion of their education. During the last semester of the program, internships may be outside the Missoula area. Transportation and housing are the student’s responsibility.

The University of Montana-Missoula College of Technology surgical Technology Program also has Outreach campuses in butte and Billings. Students on those campuses take the general health core curriculum courses on their respective campuses. The surgical technology-specific courses begin spring semester. Students must apply to the ST program by November 1. Students may apply while enrolled in the general health core curriculum with acceptance to the program to be determined after fall grades are finalized. The classroom portion of the ST program curriculum is delivered online in web-based format from the Missoula campus. Lab and clinical courses are conducted on each Outreach campus. Outreach students are required to travel to Missoula to write the National Certification Exam and to participate in Commencement exercises. Prospective students may contact the Outreach Office at 406-243-7871 for more information regarding the ST Program on the Butte and Billings campuses. The ST program is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), 1361 park St., Clearwater, FL 33756; phone 727-210-2350, www.caahep.org.

General Health Core Curriculum

to be successfully completed prior to application to the program. A general health core curriculum course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times.

WTS 115 Technical Writing or WTS 101 English Composition3
CRT 100 Computer Literacy or equivalent 2
MAT 100 Intermediate Algebra or MAT 117 Probability and Linear Math 3
MED 154T Beginning Medical Terminology 2
PSY 100S Introduction to Psychology 4
SCN 201N Anatomy and Physiology 4

Surgical Technology Program Curriculum:

First Year S
BIOL 106N Elementary Medical Biology 3
SCN 202N Anatomy and Physiology 4
SUR 101T Introduction to Safe Patient Care 3
SUR 102T Surgical Procedures Lab I2
SUR 154T Surgical Pharmacology 3
Total 15
Second Year A S
SUR 200T Operating Room Techniques 5 -
SUR 201T Surgical Procedures I 4 -
SUR 202T Surgical Procedures Lab II 2 -
SUR 203T Surgical Lab Practicum I 4 -
SUR 204 Ethical Dimensions in Health Professions 3 -
SUR 205T Surgical Procedures II - 5
SUR 206T Surgical Lab Practicum II -5
SUR 290T Surgical Internship - 5
Total 18 15

Courses

U = for undergraduate credit only. R after the credit indicates the course may be repeated for credit to the maximum indicated after the R. Credits beyond this maximum do not count toward a degree.

Nursing (NUR)

U 101 Introduction to Nursing 1 cr.Offered each semester.  This online course is a prerequisite to the Practical Nursing program.  Student will be presented with an introductory level of the core concepts of nursing practice and other issues such as the legal concerns and ethical/cultural issues that face professional nurses on a consistent basis.

U 103 Fundamentals of Nursing 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring.  Prereq., SCN 201N-202N, MAT 117, WTS 101, SCN 150N, PSY 100s, CHEM 151 with lab, and acceptance into the practical nursing program.  Introduces the student to basic principles and psychomotor skills to provide a framework for developing initial competencies in patient care.  Campus lab experience is used initially.  Off campus clinical experience in a long term care setting completes the hands on portion.  Successful students are qualified to apply for certification as certified nurse assistants.

U 151 Drug Administration and Calculations 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., WTS 101, MAT 117, SCN 201N-202N, SCN 150N, PSY 100S, CHEM 151 with lab, and acceptance into the practical nursing program. Apothecary, metric, and household conversion factors and their application in solving dosage problems. On campus lab experience in administering medications by all routes.

U 154 Pharmacology I 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., MAT 117, SCN 201N-202N, SCN 250N, PSY 100S, CHEM 151 with lab, and acceptance into the practical nursing program. Fundamental principles of pharmacology as a possible means to meet human needs. Identification of broad medication categories using the prototype approach. Pharmacologic actions, uses, nursing implications, and client teaching for medications are addressed within the context of the nursing process.

U 155 Adult Physiological Needs I 4 cr. Offered spring and summer. Prereq., SCN 201N-202N, SCN 150N, MAT 117, WTS 101, PSY 100S CHEM 151 with lab, and acceptance into the practical nursing program. Coreq., NUR 151, 154.. Application of nursing theories and skills to meet the basic human needs of adult clients experiencing common, recurring actual or potential health deviations. All classroom and clinical lab components must be satisfactorily completed to pass this course. Supervised clinical laboratory includes the care of the adult client in the acute setting with emphasis placed on the use of nursing assessments, the nursing process, and communication skills to enable the student to assist in identifying needs, planning, providing, and collaboratively evaluating care.

U 160 Childbearing Family Needs 3 cr. Offered spring and summer. Prereq., all second semester nursing classes and acceptance into the practical nursing program. Meeting basic human needs of the childbearing family unit and children from one month of age to adolescence. The continued application of growth and development and communication theories within the framework of the nursing process. A supervised clinical laboratory experience is provided to help the student identify and meet the needs of the childbearing family or child in acute care and outpatient settings. Classroom and clinical lab components must be satisfactorily completed in order to pass this course.

U 165  Adult Physiological Needs II 4 cr.  Offered spring and fall.  Prereq. all courses in the second semester of the practical nursing program.  Coreq., NUR 160, NUR 166.  Continued application of nursing theories, principles, and skills to meet human needs of adult clients experiencing more complex, recurring actual or potential physiological, mental or emotional health deviations.  The nursing process provides the framework to synthesize aspects of communication, ethical/legal issues, cultural diversity, and optimal wellness. Supervised clinical laboratory includes care of the adult client in the acute care setting.  Assessment, problem solving and critical thinking skills enable the student to plan, provide, and evaluate care.  The clinical lab and classroom portions must be satisfactorily completed to pass this course.

U 166 Clinical Capstone Experience 2 cr.  Offered intermittent.  Prereq., all first semester nursing courses and consent of instr.  Capstone course that allows the student to work collaboratively with an identified LPN preceptor, performing the role expectations for care in that workplace setting.

U 170 Nursing Review 2 cr. Offered intermittently.  Prereq., Enrollment in all second semester nursing courses and consent of instructor.  Preparation for the national test for LPN licensure.

U 154  Pharmacology II  2 cr.  Offered spring and fall.  Prereq., All courses in the first semester nursing and concurrent enrollment in NUR 160 and 165.  Continuation of NUR 154.  Continues the study of medication prototype groups to meet human needs.  The nursing process as a framework for understanding actions, use, nursing implications, and client teaching continues as a major conceptual theme.

U 196T Independent Study 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently.

U 240 LPN to RN Transition 2 cr. Offered autumn and summer. Prereq., admission to the registered nursing program. Focus on the role transition from LPN to RN in relation to the concepts and principles of holistic nursing care. Focus is on the continuing development of roles and responsibilities of the RN as defined by the scope of practice standards, nursing theory and conceptual models.

U 250 Mental Health Nursing Needs 2 cr. Offered spring and summer. Prereq., admission to the registered nursing program and current unencumbered LPN license. Principles and practices related to the holistic nursing care of individuals and families across the lifespan. Focus on the continued development of the nursing process to address psychosocial needs. Concepts include the helping relationship, specific mental health illnesses, crisis intervention, and specific nursing therapies related to treatment.

U 254 Pharmacology II 2 cr. Offered spring and summer. Prereq., NUR 154. Continuation of NUR 154. Continues the study of medication prototype groups to meet human needs. The nursing process as a framework for understanding actions, use, nursing implications, and client teaching continues as a major conceptual theme.

U 255 Adult Physiological Needs II 4 cr. Offered spring and summer. Prereq. all courses in the second semester of the practical nursing program. Coreq., NUR 160, NUR 254. Continued application of nursing theories, principles, and skills to meet human needs of adult clients experiencing more complex, recurring actual or potential physiological, mental or emotional health deviations. The nursing process provides the framework to synthesize aspects of communication, ethical/legal issues, cultural diversity, and optimal wellness. Supervised clinical laboratory includes care of the adult client in the acute care setting. Assessment, problem solving and critical thinking skills enable the student to plan, provide, and evaluate care. The clinical lab and classroom portions must be satisfactorily completed to pass this course.

U 260 Advanced Obstetrics and Pediatrics 3 cr. Offered autumn and summer. Prereq., NUR 240 and NUR 250, admission to the registered nursing program, and current unencumbered LPN license. Presentation of concepts and principles related to the registered nurse providing nursing care for childbearing families and children who are experiencing complex alterations in the functional dimension of health. Focus on the use of the nursing process in assessment and application of advanced concepts in the care of the child-bearing family, or a child with more complex health care problems form birth through adolescence. Exploration of special needs and complications during the perinatal experience, and altered functioning, special needs and disease processes manifested in children.

U 265 Advanced Adult Physiological Needs 4 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., NUR 240, admission to the registered nursing program, current unencumbered LPN license. Focuses on the role of the registered professional nurse as care provider, teacher, manager, and advocate in meeting the more complex medical and surgical needs of adults across the lifespan. Utilizing the nursing process students will advance their learning in advanced physical assessment including comprehensive history, physical and psychological assessment of signs and symptoms, pathologic changes and psychosocial variations of the patient. Differential nursing diagnosis and treatment of more complex pathological conditions of the adult will also be explored.

U 266 Clinical Capstone Experience 2 cr. Offered intermittent. Prereq., all first semester nursing courses and consent of instr. Capstone course that allows the student to work collaboratively with an identified LPN preceptor, performing the role expectations for care in that workplace setting.

U 269 Nursing Trends and Issues 3 cr. Offered intermittently. Prereq., PSYC 100S, all first semester nursing courses and concurrent enrollment in NUR 255 and 160 or consent of instr. Transition from the student role to that of the graduate nurse. Communication skills in the workplace, ethical/legal issues and professional responsibilities are included. Leadership and management roles are examined. Skills necessary to obtain and retain employment are stressed. A practice examination to assess readiness for the NCLEX licensure exam is administered.

U 270 Nursing Review 2 cr. Offered intermittently. Prereq., Enrollment in all second semester nursing courses and consent of instructor. Preparation for the national test for LPN licensure.

U 275 Leadership, Management, and Internship 1 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq. or coreq., completion of NUR 260 and NUR 265. Focuses on the principles of professional nursing management, leadership and ethics. Students develop knowledge and skills in decision making as well as in the management areas of planning, organizing, staffing, directing and controlling. Emphasis is on the use of leadership knowledge and skills in affecting change. Integration of knowledge of ethical factors as they relate to health and illness.

U 295T Special Topics 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

Pharmacy Technology (PHA)

U 100T Introduction to Pharmacy Practice 3 cr. Offered autumn. Introduction to pharmacy practice as a career. Includes history and personnel relating to pharmaceutical services and ethical standards of the occupation. Introduction to federal and state laws regulating pharmacy practice with emphasis on Montana State Pharmacy Law regulating pharmacy technicians. Preparation, maintenance, and storage of pharmacy records. Basic concepts of computer operations with emphasis on software designed for use in pharmacy. Development of skills necessary for the pharmacy technician to communicate effectively in the following ways: 1) as a representative of the profession of pharmacy, 2) as an intermediary between the pharmacist and patient, and 3) as an intermediary between the pharmacist and other health care professionals.

U 101T Pharmacy Calculations 3 cr. Offered autumn. Calculations used in pharmacy practice; includes various systems of weights and measures, dosage determinations, percentage preparations, reducing and enlarging formulas, dilution, and concentration.

U 102T Pharmacology 6 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., admission into Pharmacy Technology program. Study of the properties, reactions, and therapeutic value of the primary agents in the major drug classes.

U 103T Hospital and Community Practice 6 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., PHA 100T, PHA 101T. Practices in hospital and community pharmacy settings. In addition to lectures, students receive hands-on experience in dispensing prescriptions, computer order entry, labeling, patient profiles, non-sterile compounding, and sterile IV admixture preparation. Guest speakers and video presentations supplement lectures and skills practice. Good communication skills are emphasized.

U 105T Pharmacy Technology Internship 5 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., PHA 100T, 101T, 102T. Training and experience in a variety of hospital and community pharmacy settings under supervision of a pharmacist. Emphasizes practical experience in outpatient dispensing, inpatient dispensing, unit-dose systems, IV admixture systems, bulk and sterile compounding, purchasing and inventory control, and effective communications.

U 154T Basic Pharmacology I 2 cr. Offered autumn. Fundamental principles of pharmacology and the implications of medication use. Includes the law as it pertains to drug use, dosage forms, routes of administration, as well as the pharmacologic actions and uses of drugs.

U 164T Basic Pharmacology II 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., PHA 154T. Continuation of PHA 154T.

U 195T Special Topics 1-6 cr. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

U 196T Independent Study 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently.

Radiologic Technology (RAD)

U 110T Introduction to Radiology and Patient Care 3 cr. Offered spring. Introduction to the field of radiology and its mix of technical equipment, lab work, hospital environment, patient care and team work.

U 111T Radiographic Procedures I 3 cr. Offered spring. Preparation in the procedures associated with radiology in standard radiographic environments.

U 121T Radiographic Imaging I 4 cr. Offered spring. Introduction to fundamental physics principles underlying radiology and diagnostic ex-ray production. Topics include electromagnetic waves, electricity and magnetism, electrical energy, and power and circuits as they relate to radiography. Factors of image quality and exposure methods: density, contrast, recorded detail, distortion, technique charts, manual and automatic exposure control, and tube rating charts.

U 122T Radiographic Imaging II 3 cr. Offered summer. Use of image receptor systems and processing principles used in radiology.

U 131T Radiographic Physics 3 cr. Offered autumn. Introduction to fundamental physics principles underlying radiology and diagnostic x-ray production. Topics include electromagnetic waves, electricity and magnetism, electrical energy, and power and circuits as they relate to radiography.

U 151T Radiographic Clinical Education I 4 cr. Offered spring. Introduction to patient management and basic radiographic procedures in the clinical setting. Emphasis on mastering positioning of the chest and extremities, manipulating equipment, and applying principle of ALARA.

U 161T Radiographic Clinical Education II 10 cr. Offered summer. Additional experience in patient management and more complex patient procedures. Emphasis on positioning of the spine, pelvis, head and neck, and thorax and adapting procedures to meet patient variations.

U 195T Special Topics Variable cr. (R-9) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

U 196T Independent Study 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently.

U 211T Radiographic Procedures II 3 cr. Offered autumn. Knowledge and skills necessary to perform standard and specialty radiographic procedures. Emphasis on radiographic specialty procedures, pathology, and advanced imaging.

U 241T Radiographic Protection 2 cr. Offered autumn. Principles of radiation protection and radio biology. Topics include the effects of ionizing radiation on body tissues, protective measures for limiting exposure to the patient and personnel, and radiation monitoring devices.

U 245T Radiographic Analysis 2 cr. Offered spring. An overview of imaging concepts as a review for the national boards. Topics include a systematic approach for image evaluation, patient care, radiation protection and the physics of radiographic imaging.

U 251T Radiographic Clinical Education III 6 cr. Offered autumn. Experience in patient management specific to fluoroscopic and advanced radiographic procedures. Emphasis on applying appropriate technical factors to all studies and positioning of gastrointestinal and urological studies.

U 261T Radiographic Clinical Education IV 6 cr. Offered spring. Continuation of instruction in all basic radiographic procedures and experience in advanced areas. Emphasis on equipment operation, pathological recognition, pediatric and geriatric variations, and radiation protection requirements.

U 290T Radiology Internship 1 cr. Offered spring. Required internship to be completed during winter session between fall and spring semester of the last year. On the job experience as a radiologic technologist under the supervision of an employer. Students work a minimum of 24 hours per week during the three week intersession.

Respiratory Care (RES)

U 120T Perspectives in Health Care Communications 2 cr. Offered autumn. Introduction to oral and written health communications as well as a brief overview of ethical and legal implications of respiratory care practice.

U 129T Patient Care and Assessment 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., SCN 201N-202N. Introduction to nursing- related knowledge and skills with emphasis on application of microbiology to aseptic technique. Assessment of the respiratory system with cardiopulmonary diagnostic and laboratory tests interpretation.. Medical terminology integrated throughout the course. Peer and instructor review of selected clinical competencies in a laboratory setting.

U 131T Respiratory Care Fundamentals 6 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., acceptance into the Respiratory Care program. Orientation to basic respiratory care science including the application of principles of physics. Emphasis on theory, operation and troubleshooting of equipment used at the entry level of practice. Microbiology in relation to equipment processing, pulmonary rehabilitation and home care included.

U 133T Respiratory Care Pharmacology 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., acceptance into the Respiratory Care Program or consent of instr. Principles of basic chemistry introduced with an application to pharmacology as related to the pulmonary system. Cardiovascular and related pharmacology studied in preparation for ACLS and ventilator management.

U 150T Respiratory Care Laboratory I 1 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., acceptance into the Respiratory Care program. Basic clinical competencies taught in RES 131T are studied in a laboratory setting. Peer and instructor review included. Students earn their BLS certification.

U 231T Respiratory Critical Care 4 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., RES 120T, 129T, 131T, 133T, 150T. Continuation of RES 131T. Physiology, indication, contraindications, and application of mechanical ventilation. Emphasis on patient assessment, monitoring,, stabilization and weaning during assisted pressure breathing. Analysis of the various modes of ventilation, including optimizing the patient-ventilator interface in the adult through various advanced airway techniques. Rhythm strip interpretation in preparation for ACLS..

U 232T Respiratory Pathology and Disease 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., RES 120T, 129T, 131T, 133T, 150T. Special lectures in medicine and disease as related to the cardiopulmonary system. Emphasis on recognition of signs and symptoms of disease and implications for treatment through the study of selected case studies. Neonatal and pediatric diseases included.

U 235T Cardiopulmonary Anatomy and Physiology 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., RES 120T, 129T, 131T, 133T, 150T or consent of instr. Principles of physiologic chemistry are introduced and applied to the macro and micro anatomy of the cardiopulmonary system with a focus on structure and function. Application made to pathology and assessment of patients receiving mechanical ventilation.

U 241T Perinatal and Pediatric Respiratory Care 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., RES 260T, 265T. Study of perinatal and pediatric respiratory care with emphasis on assessment, resuscitation and mechanical ventilation of the neonate and pediatric patient. The theory of Neonatal Resuscitations (NRP) will be presented.

U 242T Respiratory Management 1 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., RES 260T, 265T. Study of respiratory care departmental organization and administration procedures.

U 250T Respiratory Care Laboratory II 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., RES 120T, 129T, 131T, 133T, 150T. A continuation of RES 150T with emphasis on adult critical care. Clinical competencies taught in RES 231T and RES 235T are studied. Peer and instructor review included.

U 252T Respiratory Care Review 2 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., RES 260T, 265T. A review of respiratory care in preparation for credentialing exams. Students must take an Entry Level Self-Assessment Exam, a Written Registry Self- Assessment Exam, and a Clinical Simulation Self-Assessment Exam.

U 255T Clinical Experience I 5 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., RES 120T, 129T, 131T, 133T, 150T. Emphasis on the student directly performing basic clinical skills in a patient care setting to include hospitals, home care, and pulmonary function laboratories. Students also participate in physician rounds.

U 260T Respiratory Care Laboratory III 1 cr. Offered summer. Prereq., RES 231T, 232T, 235T, 250T, 255T. Peer and instructor review are included. Students will be Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advance Life Support (PALS) certified at the end of this class.

U 265T Clinical Experience II 6 cr. Offered summer. Prereq., RES 231T, 232T, 235T, 250T, 255T. Continuation of clinical skills learned in RES 255T. Introduction to adult critical areas along with sleep and cardiac diagnostics. Students also participate in physician rounds.

U 270T Respiratory Care Laboratory IV 2 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., RES 260T, 265T. A continuation of RES 260T with an emphasis on neonatal and pediatric critical care. Clinical competencies introduced in RES 241T are studied. Peer and instructor review are included. Students will be Neonatal Resuscitation (NRP) certified at the completion of the class.

U 275T Clinical Experience III 7 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., RES 260T, 265T, 270T. Continuation of RES 265T with critical care of the adult. Neonatal and pediatric critical care experiences also emphasized along with teaching skills in selected areas. Students also participate in physician rounds.

U 295T Special Topics 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

Surgical Technology (SUR)

U 101T Introduction to Safe Patient Care 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., completion of all first semester courses; coreq., SUR 102T. Provides an orientation to the scrub and circulatory roles of the surgical technologist in the preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative periods. Entry level skills and theories are emphasized.

U 102T Surgical Procedures Lab I 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., completion of all first semester courses; coreq., SUR 101T. Orientation to the physical organization of the central processing department with emphasis on documentation, sterilization, and preparation of instruments/supplies.

U 154T Surgical Pharmacology 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., MAT 005. Basic overview of the medications that are commonly used before, during and after a surgical procedure.

U 164T Microbiology for the Surgical Technologists 3 cr. Offered autumn. Basics of microbiology and techniques for prevention and control of disease before, during, and after surgery.

U 195T Special Topics Variable cr. (R-9) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

U 200T Operating Room Techniques 5 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., completion of all first and second semester courses; coreq., SUR 202T. Focus on the scrub and circulator roles of the surgical technologist in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative periods. More complex skills and theories; impact of new technologies in the 21 st century operating room.

U 201T Surgical Procedures I 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., completion of all first and second semester courses; coreq., SUR 203T. A study of surgical procedures following the patient through the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative stages of specific surgical specialties.

U 202T Surgical Procedures Lab II 2 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., completion of all first and second semester courses; coreq., SUR 200T. Orientation to the physical organization of the surgical suite, demonstration and return demonstration of perioperative competencies in the campus lab.

U 203T Surgical Lab Practicum I 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., all first and second semester courses; coreq., SUR 200, SUR 201T, SUR 202T. Perioperative experience in the minor surgical procedure role through a supervised clinical hospital rotation.

U 204 Ethical Dimensions in Health Professions 3 cr. Offered autumn. Ethical decision-making tools for addressing common ethical issues in the health professions.

U 205T Surgical Procedures II 5 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., all first, second, and third semester courses. A study of surgical procedures following the patient through the preoperative, intraoperative, and post-operative stages of CV/ thoracic, orthopedic, neurological, and ophthalmic specialties.

U 206T Surgical Lab Practicum II 5 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., all first, second and third semester courses; coreq., SUR 205T. Perioperative experience in the major surgical procedure role through a supervised clinical hospital rotation.

U 290T Surgical Internship 5 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., all first, second, and third semester courses, SUR 205T, SUR 206T. Capstone experience in the perioperative role in preparation for initial employment, increasing occupational awareness and professionalism. Students take call for emergency surgeries alongside experienced hospital staff.