AS/AAS in Healthcare

One of the most flexible associate degree programs available to ultrasound technicians is the Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Healthcare. This kind of program provides a general knowledge of all the skills students need to work in the medical field. While students are not legally required to have a degree to work as an ultrasound tech, most employers only consider candidates with at least an associate’s degree level of education since the job market is so competitive. Getting an AS/AAS in healthcare in addition to an ultrasound tech education or as a start to an ultrasound tech education is a great way to get a foot in the door with an employer.

Requirements for Earning an AS or AAS in Healthcare

Students can expect to spend about two years getting an AS or AAS in healthcare, though programs do vary according to how many credits they complete each semester and the specific requirements of their college. In some programs, students complete clinical hours at an on-site location, where they get hands-on experience working in a medical setting, preparing them for a career as a cardiovascular technician, pharmacy technician, ultrasound technician, or a related field.

This type of degree program puts a healthcare spin on every class, so even when learning about business or education, students always do so from a health-related perspective. The exact classes students take as part of an AS/AAS in healthcare program vary depending on their college, but some of the topics they may cover include:

  • Healthcare Administration
  • Communication
  • Patient Care Techniques
  • Health Informatics
  • Management
  • Anatomy
  • Medical Technology
  • Word Processing
  • Terminology
  • Basic Office Skills
  • Ethics and Law
  • Human Resources
  • Public Health
  • Research Techniques
  • Finance

Further Information About Healthcare Programs

Both online and offline programs are available for those who want to pursue an AS/AAS in healthcare. If students need flexibility, distance learning education can make getting an associate’s degree in this field easier, as they can work their classes around a less flexible job or family responsibilities.

Top Online Health Services Programs

Adventist University of Health Sciences
BS in Radiologic Sciences
 		Adventist University of Health Sciences — Founded in 1992, the Adventist University of Health Sciences is formerly the Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences, a school focused on privding higher education in the several fields of healthcare. The BS in Health Information Technology program prepares students to become radiologic technicians. Adventist University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Herzing University
AS in Medical Assisting
 		Herzing University — With a 45 year history, Herzing University is an accredited university that offers associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees as well as diplomas in over 45 different programs. The AS in Medical Assisting program builds on the online diploma program by incorporating the general education requirements required for this level of degree. Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

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