The Health Professions Department of the University of Montana 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 five Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degrees, one Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree, and one Certificate of Applied Science (CAS) program 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:
The Health Professions Department offers A.A.S. degrees in Medical Assisting, Practical Nursing (PN), Radiologic Technology, Respiratory Care, Surgical Technology, an A.S. degree in Registered Nursing (ASRN), and a Certificate in Applied Science (CAS) in Pharmacy Technology. Admission to a specific Health Professions (HP) program requires documented completion of the Associate of Arts (AA) prerequisite courses as required by the specific HP program to which the student is applying. The AA prerequisite courses are different for each HP program and are listed in the specific program description in this catalog. A prerequisite course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times. Any general prerequisite 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 as AA General Studies majors and select courses from the required prerequisite courses 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. Placement testing assures that students are enrolled in the appropriate course to ensure success in writing and math studies.
Admission to a health program requires a completed application for the specific program to which the student is applying, with documented completion of the program specific prerequisite courses. 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:
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).
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.
The groups of courses are different for each HP program and are 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. These courses include, but are not limited to:
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 must earn a "C" or better in all courses in order to continue in the program. A course maybe 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.
| First Year | A | S |
|---|---|---|
| ACTG 100 (ACC 131T) Essentials of Accounting | - | 4 |
| BS 140T Customer Service. | 4 | - |
| COM 150S Interpersonal Communications | - | 3 |
| CAPP 120 (CRT 108) Introduction to Computers or competency | 2 | - |
| CAPP 134 (CRT 108) Basic MS Word | - | 2 |
| M 105 Contemporary Math | 3 | - |
| MED 154T Beginning Medical Terminology | 2 | - |
| MED 195T Terminology for Health Professions | - | 3 |
| PSYX 100S (PSY 100S) Introduction to Psychology | 4 | - |
| SCN 201N Anatomy and Physiology | - | 4 |
| WRIT 121 (WTS 115) Introduction to Technical Writing | 3 | - |
| Total | 18 | 16 |
| Second Year | A | S |
| MED 153T Insurance Processing | 3 | - |
| 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 |
| MED 280E Medical Ethics | - | 3 |
| PHA 160T;Pharmacological Products | 3 | - |
| PSYX 230 (PSY 201) Developmental Psychology | - | 3 |
| SCN 202N Anatomy and Physiology | 4 | |
| Total | 15 | 16 |
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 and wintersessionof 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 achieved required writing, math, and computer skills. Students should place in Level 3 or higher in the ALEKS Math Assessment, and should attain a 7 or better on the E-Write assessment. Students who do not score high enough on assessments should consult with an advisor to arrange enrollment in the necessary courses to build their skills. Students must either complete the Into to Computers (CAPP 120) or pass the challenge for CAPP 120.
Once accepted into the program, all students are expected to complete the PHA classes with a B or higher to proceed to the next semester.
After successfully completing the program, students are awarded a Certificate of Applied Science and are well prepared and encouraged to sit for the national technician certification examination such as that offered through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). The Pharmacy Technology program is accredited by the American Society of Health System Pharmacists (ASHP).
Conviction of a crime (misdemeanor or felony) could leave an individual ineligible for participation in the certifying test and/or becoming registered in Montana as a certified pharmacy technician. Additionally, the Montana State Board of Pharmacy Application for Pharmacy Technician Registration includes a number of questions regarding personal history, including but not limited to criminal charges. Please contact the PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board), ptcb.org, and the Montana State Board of Pharmacy (http://mt.gov/kli/bsd/) if this is a potential problem.
Current salary range in Montana is from $9 per hour to $20 per hour, depending on employer, job duties, and experience.
| First Year | A | S |
|---|---|---|
| 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 103, Hospital and Community Practice, is offered during the January Wintersession. The program director will provide a complete schedule at the beginning of the autumn semester.
The College of Technology offers an Associate of Applied Science degree (AAS) in Practical Nursing. Applicants for the PN program must have a high school diploma or equivalency, have completed the AA prerequisite 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 UM COT Nursing webpage. Application deadlines are April 1 and November 1. A student may apply while enrolled in the AA prerequisite courses 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 program. Applicants must prove computer literacy either by successfully passing a challenge examination, transferring in an equivalent course or passing CAPP 120.
Students learn practical nursing skills through independent study, lectures, simulation 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.
Students must provide proof of having met the following health requirements to the Nursing Program Administrative Associate, on or before the first day of class:
Many licensing bodies and employing institutions in health care have increasingly stringent requirements and background checks as conditions for licensing or employment. If a student has concerns about this, she/he should contact the licensing board for nursing at dlibsdnur@mt.gov.
Practical Nursing 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.
A.A. prerequisite courses must be completed prior to application to the program. An AA prerequisite course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times.
| PN Prerequisites | A/S |
|---|---|
|
CHMY 121N (CHEM 151N) Introduction to General Chemistry |
3 |
| CHMY 122N (CHEM 152N) Introduction to General Chemistry Laboratory | 1 |
| M 121 (MAT 118) College Algebra (requires a placement test) | 3 |
| NUR 101 Introduction to Nursing | 1 |
| PSYX 100S (PSY 100S) Introduction to Psychology | 4 |
| SCN 150 Nutrition (Suggested prerequisite is SCN 100N, Issues in Biology) | 3 |
| SCN 201N-202N Anatomy and Physiology | 8 |
| WRIT 101 (WTS 101) College Writing I (requires a placement test) | 3 |
Students must prove competence with computer technology in one of the following three ways: Acceptable transfer credit for CAPP 120 (CRT 100); Pass the challenge exam for CAPP 120 (CRT 100); Take and pass CAPP 120 (CRT 100).
Students 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.
Scope and Sequence of the Practical Nursing Program:
| First Year Start in Spring | A | S |
|---|---|---|
| NUR 110 (NUR 103) Fundamentals of Nursing | - | 7 |
| NUR 125 (NUR 154) Pharmacology I | - | 3 |
| NUR 146; Gerontology | - | 2 |
| NUR 155 Core Concepts of Mental Health Nursing | 2 | - |
| NUR 156 (NUR 155) Core Concepts of Adult Nursing | 7 | - |
| NUR 168 (NUR 160) Core Concepts of Maternal/Child Nursing | 3 | - |
| NUR 173 (NUR 169 Leadership Issues | 2 | - |
| NUR 170 NCLEX Review (elective) | 2 | - |
| Total | 16 | 12 |
| First Year Start in Autmn | A | S |
|---|---|---|
| NUR 110 (NUR 103) Fundamentals of Nursing | 7 | - |
| NUR 125 (NUR 154) Pharmacology I | 3 | - |
| NUR 146; Gerontology | 2 | - |
| NUR 155 Core Concepts of Mental Health Nursing | - | 2 |
| NUR 156 (NUR 155) Core Concepts of Adult Nursing | - | 7 |
| NUR 168 (NUR 160) Core Concepts of Maternal/Child Nursing | - | 3 |
| NUR 173 (NUR 169 Leadership Issues | - | 2 |
| NUR 170 NCLEX Review (elective) | - | 2 |
| Total | 12 | 16 |
The Associate of Science degree program articulates with the PN program and requires at least two additional semesters of fulltime study. Applicants must have completed a PN program with the AA prerequisite courses listed in the practical nursing course of study, and have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75, submit three letters of reference from employers or former instructors, produce a proctored essay and possibly meet with an 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.N. degree program is approved by the State Board of Nursing.
The requirements for all students entering the program are:
There is further advanced learning and skill development in the A.S.N. degree program, in lecture, lab and clinical settings. 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.
| Prerequisite courses | A | S |
|---|---|---|
| Have completed all PN Prerequisites | ||
| BIOL 106N Elementary Medical Microbiology | 3 | - |
| SCN 220 Human Physiology (required if student has not taken SCN 202) | 4 | – |
| SOCI 101S (SOC 110S) Introduction to Sociology | - | 3 |
| RN First Year Start in Autumn | A | S |
|---|---|---|
|
NUR 273 (NUR 240) LPN to RN Transition |
2 | - |
| NUR 230 Pathophysiology | 3 | - |
| NUR 255 (NUR 250) Complex Mental Health Nursing | 2 | - |
| NUR 268 (NUR 260) Complex Care Maternal/Child Nursing | 3 | - |
| NUR 265 Advanced Adult Physiological Needs | - | 4 |
| NUR 275 Management, Ethics and Internship | - | 2 |
| Total | 10 | 6 |
| RN First Year Start in Spring | A | S |
|---|---|---|
|
NUR 273 (NUR 240) LPN to RN Transition |
- | 2 |
| NUR 230 Pathophysiology | - | 3 |
| NUR 255 (NUR 250) Complex Mental Health Nursing | - | 2 |
| NUR 268 (NUR 260) Complex Care Maternal/Child Nursing | - | 3 |
| NUR 265 Advanced Adult Physiological Needs | 4 | - |
| NUR 275 Management, Ethics and Internship | 2 | - |
| Total | 6 | 10 |
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 AA prerequisite courses prior to applying to the program. Students admitted to the University of Montana may enroll in the AA prerequisite courses. Students must pass SCN 201N-202N with a minimum grade of ‘B’ and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 in the AA prerequisite courses to apply to the Radiologic Technology program. A course may be attempted a maximum of two times. As some courses are offered autumn or spring semester only, it is important to obtain advising with the Program Director each semester prior to registration. Application to the program is required spring semester the year prior to the autumn semester program start. Students may apply while enrolled in the AA prerequisite courses 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.
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.
To be successfully completed prior to application to the program. An AA Prerequisite course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times:
| M 115 (MAT 117) Probability and Linear Math or M 121 (MAT 118)College Algebra | 3 |
| SCN 175N Integrated Physical Sciences | 3 |
| SCN 201N Anatomy and Physiology | 4 |
| WRIT 121 (WTS 115) Introduction to Technical Writing or WRIT 101 College Writing | 3 |
| Total | 13 |
Students must prove competence with computer technology in one of the following three ways: Acceptable transfer credit for CAPP 120; Pass the challenge exam for CAPP 120; Take and pass CAPP 120.
| First Year | A | S |
|---|---|---|
| COM 160A Oral Communications | – | 3 |
| PSYX 161S (PSY 110S)Organizational Psychology or PSYX 100S (PSY 100S) Introduction to Psychology | 3 | – |
| RAD 110 Introduction to Radiology and Patient Care | 3 | - |
| RAD 111 Radiological Procedures I | 3 | - |
| RAD 121 Radiographic Imaging I | - | 4 |
| RAD 151 Radiographic Clinical Education I | - | 8 |
| RAD 112 Radiological Procedures II | - | 3 |
| SCN 202N Anatomy and Physiology | 4 | - |
| Total | 13 | 18 |
| Summer Session | A | S |
| RAD 161 Radiographic Clinical Education II | 12 | |
| Total | 10 | |
| Second Year | A | S |
| MED 280E Ethics in Health Professions | - | 3 |
| RAD 222 Radiographic Imaging II | 3 | - |
| RAD 241 Radiographic Protection | 2 | - |
| RAD 245 Radiographic Analysis | - | 2 |
| RAD 251 Radiographic Clinical Education III | 8 | - |
| RAD 261 Radiographic Clinical Education IV | - | 9 |
| Total | 13 | 14 |
Respiratory Care is an allied health specialty. 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 as patient evaluation, treatment selection, and assessment of treatment efficacy) and patient education. The scope of practice for respiratory therapist 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 AA prerequisite courses and a summer session. 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, Helena, Coeur d’Alene and Lewiston, Idaho and Spokane, Washington. Transportation and housing are the student’s responsibility.
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.
To be successfully completed prior to application to the program. An AA prerequisite course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times.
| M 115 (MAT 117) Probability and Linear Mathematics Probability and Linear Math or M 121 (MAT 118)College Algebra | 3 |
| PSYX 161S (PSY 110S)Organizational Psychology | 3 |
| SCN 201N-202N Anatomy and Physiology | 8 |
| WRIT 121 (WTS 115) Introduction to Technical Writing or WRIT 101 (WTS 101) College Writing I | 3 |
| Total | 17 |
| Autumn Entry | A | S |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Management | 1 | |
| RES 252T Respiratory Care Review | 2 | |
| RES 270T Respiratory Care Laboratory IV | 2 | |
| RES 275T Clinical Experience III | 7 | |
| Total | 15 |
Students in the 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 by passing instruments, equipment and supplies to the surgeon during the surgical procedure but may also perform many non-sterile duties throughout the workday.
Students admitted to The University of Montana enter as Associate of Arts (AA) General Studies majors and select the specific prerequisite courses required for their chosen area of study after meeting with the program advisor.
The Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) in Surgical Technology requires students successfully complete, or be in the process of completing, the A.A. prerequisite courses at the time of program application. Students must apply to the ST program by November 1. Students may apply while enrolled in the A.A. prerequisite courses with acceptance to the program to be determined after the Autumn semester grades are finalized. The course, SCN 201N, Anatomy and Physiology I, must be passed with a grade of B (3.0). All other prerequisite courses must be passed with a grade of C (2.0). The program-specific courses begin spring semester.
Once accepted to the program, a student must complete each Surgical Technology-specific course (those courses with a SUR prefix) with a minimum grade of ‘C' (80%) in order to continue in the ST program. All other required courses must also be passed with a grade of "C". Course grading scales may vary. If a student does not pass the required courses, he/she will not be able to continue in the program and will need to apply for readmission. If a student is re-admitted, he/she will be required to complete skills labs, SUR 102T and SUR 202T, to ensure sterile technique skills are acceptable for patient care. A student may take any required course a maximum of two (2) times.
A student will become a member of the Association of Surgical Technologists (www.ast.org) during the first year in the program. A student anticipating program completion will write the National Certification Exam prior to graduation. 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. The credential of Certified is awarded by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
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 College of Technology Surgical Technology Program also has Outreach campuses in Butte and Billings. The Butte site is the Montana Tech of The University of Montana College of Technology campus in collaboration with St James Healthcare. The Billings site is the Montana State University-Billings College of Technology campus in collaboration with St Vincent Healthcare and Billings Clinic. Students at those sites take the equivalent A.A .prerequisite 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 A.A. prerequisite courses with acceptance to the program to be determined after fall grades are finalized. The classroom portion of the ST program curriculum is delivered in web-based format using the Blackboard course delivery system 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. Please refer to the specific course catalogs on the Butte and Billings campuses for prerequisite requirements.
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.
A student may apply to the program either following completion of the AA prerequisite courses or during the semester completing the courses. Any required course may be attempted a maximum of two (2) times.
| WRIT 121 (WTS 115) Introduction to Technical Writing or WRIT 101 (WTS 101) College Writing I | 3 |
| CAPP 120 (CRT 100) Computer Applications | 2 |
| M 105 Contemporary Math | 3 |
| MED 154T Beginning Medical Terminology | 2 |
| PSYX 100S (PSY 100S)Introduction to Psychology | 4 |
| SCN 201N Anatomy and Physiology I | 4 |
| Total | 18 |
| First Year | A | |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 106N Elementary Microbiology | - | 3 |
| SCN 202N Anatomy and Physiology II | - | 4 |
| ST 100 Introduction to Safe Patient Care | - | 3 |
| ST 115 Surgical Lab I | - | 2 |
| ST 154 Surgical Pharmacology | - | 3 |
| Total | - | 15 |
| Second Year | A | S |
| ST 200 Operating Room Techniques | 5 | - |
| ST 201 Surgical Procedures I | 4 | - |
| ST 215 Surgical Lab II | 2 | - |
| ST 250 Surgical Clinical I | 4 | - |
| MED 280 Ethics in Health Professions | 3 | |
| ST 202 Surgical Procedures II | - | 5 |
| ST 251 Surgical Clinical II | - | 5 |
| ST 298 Surgical Internship | - | 5 |
| Total | 18 | 15 |
Please note: Surgical Technology course numbers, titles and rubries have changed.
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.
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 110 Fundamentals of Nursing 7 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq: acceptance into the Practical Nursing Program. Introduces learners to the clinical skills essential for the nursing role. Also includes complex concepts and behaviors of nursing roles within the context of the nursing process, holistic care and health care. Emphasizes the theoretical and practical concepts of nursing skills required to meet the needs of clients in a variety of settings.
U 125 Pharmacology 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq: acceptance into the Practical Nursing Program. Students learn a structured systematic approach to the study of drug therapy through caring, communication, professionalism, critical thinking, and clinical judgment. Medications are studied according to drug classes, and therapeutic families. Students will learn to apply the nursing process to drug therapy with an emphasis on accessing relevant information to ensure client safety.
U 146 Gerontology 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq: acceptance into the Practical Nursing Program. Introduces the student to the skills and knowledge needed to provide nursing care to aging clients. Topics explored include current trends (including legal and ethical issues) in gerontological nursing, developmental stages and transitions associated with aging, expected age-related physiological changes, and assessment findings, recognition and management of acute and chronic illness that commonly occur in the older adult population, promotion of health for the older adult client, end-of-life issues and care.
U 155 Core Concepts of Mental Health Nursing 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq: successful completion of semester 1 of the PN nursing program. Exploration of physiological, psychological, sociocultural, spiritual, and environmental factors associated with mental health/illness affecting individuals and families. Focus will be placed on basic concepts of psychiatric nursing, therapeutic modalities, as well as psychiatric disorders including psychopharmacological management.
U 156 Core Concepts of Adult Nursing 7 cr. Offered spring and autumn. Prereq: successful completion of semester 1 of the PN nursing program. Prepares the student to care for clients experiencing common, well-defined health alterations in settings where stable clients are anticipated. Students are introduced to standardized nursing procedures and customary nursing and collaborative therapeutic modalities.
U 166 Clinical Capstone Experience 2 cr. Offered intermittently. Prereq: all first semester practical 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 168 Core Concepts of Maternal/Child Nursing 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq: successful completion of semester 1 of the PN nursing program. Information about fetal development and prenatal and postnatal care of the mother and newborn emphasizing caring, communication, professionalism, and critical thinking. Role of the nurse in meeting the needs of the family is emphasized. Clinical application of caring for the mother and newborn will allow the student to demonstrate acquired knowledge.
U 170 NCLEX Review 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq: Successful completion of all courses in the first semester of the practical nursing program. Preparation for the national test for LPN licensure.
U 173 Leadership Issues 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq: successful completion of semester 1 of the PN nursing program. Capstone course that provides the Practical Nursing student information regarding the current status of vocational nursing. There is a forty-five hour clinical/precepted component to provide the student opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in the long-term care setting.
U 196T Independent Study 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently.
U 230 Pathophysiology 3 cr. Offered spring and autumn. Prereq: successful acceptance into the ASRN Nursing Program. An introduction to the basic principles and processes of pathophysiology including cellular communication, genes and genetic disease, forms of cellular injury, fluid and electrolyte/acid base balance, immunity, stress coping and illness, and tumor biology. Pathophysiology of the most common alterations according to body system will also be discussed as well as the latest developments in research related to each area.
U 255 Complex Care Needs of the Mental Health Client 2 cr. Offered spring and autumn. Explores physiological, psychological, sociocultural, spiritual and environmental factors associated with mental health/illness. Focus is placed on psychotherapeutic management in the continuum of care, milieu management and special populations with emphasis on individuals, families and communities.
U 265 Advanced Adult Physiological Needs II 4 cr. Offered spring and autumn. Prepares the student to provide nursing care to adult clients experiencing acutely changing conditions in settings where outcomes are less predictable. Emphasis is placed on the nurse's response to emergent/life-threatening/rapidly changing conditions. Topics covered include collaborative therapeutic modalities related to acute/complex neurological, cardiac, respiratory, hematological, endocrinological events, shock, sepsis/SARS, complex burns, etc.
U 268 Complex Care Needs-Maternal/Child 3 cr. Offered spring and autumn semester. Prepares the student to provide care to maternal/child clients experiencing acutely changing conditions in settings where outcomes are less predictable. Topics include care of the client during childbirth, high-risk pregnancies, obstetrical emergencies, neonatal emergencies, and infants and children requiring complex collaborative care.
U 273 PN to RN Transition 4 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq: admission to the registered nursing program and current unencumbered LPN license. 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 275 Management, Ethics, & Internship 2 cr. Prereq: Successful completion of first semester of the registered nursing courses and current unencumbered LPN license. Focuses on the principles of professional nursing management, leadership and ethics. Students develop knowledge and skills in decision making as 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.
Pharmacy Technology (PHA)
U 100 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 101 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 102 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 103 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 105 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 160 Survey of Pharmaceutical Products 3 cr. Offered autumn. Fundamental principles of pharmacology and the implications of medication use. Includes the law as it pertins to drug use, dosage forms, routes of administration as well as the pharmacologic actions and uses of drugs.
U 195 Special Topics 1-6 cr. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.
U 196 Independent Study 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently.
U 110 Introduction to Radiology and Patient Care 3 cr. Offered fall. Introduction to the field of radiology and its mix of technical equipment, lab work, hospital environment, patient care and team work.
U 111 Radiographic Procedures I 3 cr. Offered fall. Preparation in the procedures associated with radiology in standard radiographic environments.
U 112 Radiographic Procedures II 3 cr. Offered spring. Knowledge and skills necessary to perform standard and specialty radiographic procedures. Emphasis on radiographic specialty procedures, pathology, and advanced imaging.
U 121 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 151 Radiographic Clinical Education I 8 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 161 Radiographic Clinical Education II 12 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 222 Radiographic Imaging II 3 cr. Offered autumn. Offers students more technical and detailed information on the use of image receptor systems, processing principles, advanced digital imaging systems and imaging modalities used in radiology.
U 241 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 245 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 251 Radiographic Clinical Education III 8 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 261 Radiographic Clinical Education IV 9 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 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.
U 101 Introduction to Safe Patient Care 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., admission to the program. 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 115 Surgical Procedures Lab I 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., admission to the program. Orientation to the physical organization of the central processing department with emphasis on documentation, sterilization, and preparation of instruments/supplies.
U 154 Surgical Pharmacology 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., admission to the program, MAT 005. Basic overview of the medications that are commonly used before, during and after a surgical procedure.
U 164 Microbiology for the Surgical Technologist 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., admission to the program basics of microbiology and techniques for prevention and control of disease before, during, and after surgery.
U 200 Operating Room Techniques 5 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., completion of all second semester courses. 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 century st operating room.
U 201 Surgical Procedures I 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., completion of all second semester courses. A study of surgical procedures following the patient through the preoperative, intraoperative, and post-operative stages of specific surgical specialties.
U 202 Surgical Procedures II 5 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., completion of all third semester courses. A study of surgical procedures following the patient through the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative stages of CV/thoracic, orthopedic, neurological, and ophthalmic specialties.
U 215 Surgical Procedures Lab II 2 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., completion of all second semester courses. Orientation to the physical organization of the surgical suite, demonstration and return demonstration of perioperative competencies in the campus lab.
U 250 Surgical Lab Practicum I 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., completion of all second semester courses and successful completion of SUR 202T. Perioperative experience in the minor surgical procedure role through a supervised clinical hospital rotation.
U 251 Surgical Lab Practicum II 5 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., completion of all third semester courses. Perioperative experience in the major surgical procedure role through a supervised clinical hospital rotation.
U MED 280E (SUR 204E) Ethics in Health Professions 3 cr. Offered autumn. Ethical decision-making tools for addressing common ethical issues in the health professions.
U 298 Surgical Internship 5 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., completion of all 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.
Registrar's Office
Lommasson Center 201
Phone: (406) 243-2995
Fax: (406) 243-4807
