Health Sciences

Our Health Sciences, Emergency Medical Services, and Nursing departments offer degrees and certificates designed to give you comprehensive training in various healthcare fields and the flexibility you need to pursue your goals.

If you are ready to find the program that is right for you, select the program below that meets your current goals.

a health worker taking blood pressure from woman

Community Health Worker Program

The Community Health Worker Program prepares students to become frontline public health workers, promoting health and wellness within their communities. Students learn about health education, advocacy, outreach, and community organizing, gaining skills that are essential for improving health equity and addressing health disparities. Graduates of this program are prepared for a variety of roles in community-based organizations, healthcare systems, and public health agencies.

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Dental Asst taking a scan

Dental Assisting Program

The Dental Assisting Program is an essential part of the dental healthcare team, providing clinical and administrative support to dentists and hygienists. With a focus on developing technical skills and a strong foundation in dental anatomy, radiography, infection control, and chairside assisting, students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in dental clinics and laboratories. Graduates of this program are prepared to pursue careers as Dental Assistants, working in a variety of dental settings, including private practices, community clinics, and public health agencies.

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Medical assistant applying bandages

Medical Assisting Program

The Medical Assisting Program prepares students for a career in healthcare, developing technical skills and a foundation in medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and patient care. Graduates pursue careers as Medical Assistants in hospitals, clinics, and private practices, providing crucial support to physicians and nurses while delivering compassionate care to patients.

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Lab tech student smiling next to lab equipment

Medical Laboratory Technician Program

The Medical Laboratory Technician Program prepares students for a vital role in healthcare, providing diagnostic support to physicians and healthcare professionals. With a focus on developing technical skills and a strong foundation in medical laboratory science, graduates pursue careers as Medical Laboratory Technicians, working in hospitals, clinics, and research laboratories. They play a crucial role in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases, making a positive impact on patient care and public health.

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Therapist assisting patient walking.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Program

The Occupational Therapy Assistant Program prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare, helping patients recover from injury or illness by providing essential support to Occupational Therapists. Graduates pursue careers as Occupational Therapy Assistants, working in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and other healthcare facilities. They play a vital role in promoting health and wellness, helping patients regain independence, and improving their overall quality of life.

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physical therapy using a band

Physical Therapist Assistant Program

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program prepares students for a fulfilling career in healthcare, helping patients recover from injury or illness by providing essential support to Physical Therapists. With a focus on developing technical skills and a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and physical therapy principles, students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in clinical and community-based settings.

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Radiologic technician preparing patient for xray

Radiologic Technology Program

The Radiologic Technology Program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in a crucial role in the healthcare industry. This program focuses on utilizing imaging technology to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions. Students gain hands-on experience in clinical and community-based settings and are well-prepared to pursue a career as a Radiologic Technologist in hospitals, clinics, imaging centers, and other healthcare facilities. They play a vital role in promoting health and wellness by helping physicians and other healthcare providers to accurately diagnose and treat their patients.

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Dr checking on little girl with respirator

Respiratory Care Practitioner Program

The Respiratory Care Practitioner Program prepares students to work in a critical and in-demand field of healthcare. This program focuses on the treatment, management, and care of patients with respiratory issues such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. Students gain hands-on experience in clinical and community-based settings and develop technical skills in respiratory therapy, patient assessment, and critical care. Graduates of this program are prepared to pursue careers as Respiratory Therapists in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, where they play a vital role in helping patients to breathe easier and improve their quality of life.

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Health Careers Counseling Center

Support for Health Career Pathways

Learn about admission requirements and criteria, program curriculum, program cost, financial aid, application for licensure/certificates, and transfer to baccalaureate programs.

Health Career Counselors/Advisors

hlthsci@hawaii.edu | (808) 734-9224, Kauila 106

STAR Balance Virtual Kiosk Hours
Mondays through Thursdays, excluding holidays
9:00-11:30am & 1:00-3:00pm

STAR Balance Kiosk is available for UH system students. For information about our health programs, attend a program information session. Email kapstart@hawaii.edu for assistance with getting started at Kapiʻolani CC.

Health Careers Info Session

Program Information sessions are held monthly and provide potential applicants with program details and requirements, application procedures, and career outlook. Attending an information session is recommended before you start your academic journey. Attendance of a program information session within one year of the application submission is mandatory when applying to a Health Science and EMS program.