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PREREQUISITE/STEP Classes

Overview

STEP Program Description

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply for STEP Online

Some fundamental English, Math and ESL classes are not listed on our online application. If you are interested in taking an English, Math and ESL class that is not listed, contact us at 1-888-876-4606.

Course Descriptions

• Non-Credit Courses
• For Credit Courses

Success Story

 

 

OVERVIEW
The Education Fund partners with local community colleges to provide our participants - adults working in the health care field - with better access to the science and other nursing and allied health prerequisite classes often impacted by high demand and short supply. We have transformed the way we provided these classes through the introduction of our Success Through Educational Preparation (STEP) program. STEP is a series of English, math and science classes offered as a multi-semester package to better prepare students for entry into nursing and allied health training programs. Students proceed through the classes as part of a casual cohort, where they also receive Education Fund tutoring and attend introductory bridge classes before each science course.

Courses are offered in all of our regions and at no charge to union-represented employees who are eligible for our services. Participants also have access to our Career Counselors who provide expert advice and ongoing support . The following is a list of courses that may be available for the spring or fall semseters.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

NON-CREDIT COURSES
Computer Fundamentals
This six-week beginner’s course is designed to introduce basic computer concepts, terminology and function to students who do not use a computer on a regular basis or who have never had formal training.

Introduction to Medical Terminology
This 3-day course is an introduction to medical language and the basic structure of medical terms and their components. Applies to all specialties of medicine.

FOR-CREDIT COURSES
Medical Terminology
Logical and rational understanding of word parts is emphasized. Covers medical terms organized according to body systems, including fundamental understanding of the basic anatomy, function, diseases and surgeries of each body system. Also available online.

Preparation for College English
Prepares students to make a successful transition to the standard college English composition class. Covers the basics of composition writing and is a prerequisite for College English, which is required for graduation and entry into most community college Nursing programs.

College English
Improve reading rate, vocabulary and comprehension. Includes formation of efficient reading habits, vocabulary development, inferential and critical reading, and adapting reading rate to different reading tasks.

College Writing
The elements of college writing and critical reading are introduced. Emphasis on grammar, sentence structure, and paragraph and essay writing.

Arithmetic
This class is preparation for Algebra. It covers the basic math functions, decimals, fractions, ratios and percentages.

Pre-Algebra - Introduction to mathematical properties for students with little or no knowledge of the subject.

Elementary Algebra - Operations on polynomials, solving linear and quadratic equations, and factoring. Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra or Math Assessment.

Intermediate Algebra - Simplifying complex fractions, rational exponents and radicals, graphing equations of straight lines, and solving linear systems of equations. Prerequisite: Elementary Algebra or Math Assessment

Biology
Introduction to molecular, cellular and genetic principles characterizing plants and animals, lecture and lab.

Chemistry
Introduction to chemistry, including the composition of matter, physical and chemical changes, fundamental laws and principles, atomic and molecular structure, inorganic nomenclature, chemical formula and reaction calculations, gas laws, bonding, solutions, net ionic equations, acid-base theories, pH, oxidation-reduction reactions and equilibria. May include qualitative and quantitative theory and techniques and the factor-label method of problem-solving. Prerequisite: Intermediate Algebra & Ed Fund Chemistry Bridge

Anatomy
Learn the structure of the human body, including identifying parts, understanding interrelationships, and making clinical applications. Laboratory activity includes dissection of cadavers and other selected mammalian organs, and use of the microscope. Prerequisite: Ed Fund Anatomy Bridge & English

Physiology
Gain a basic understanding and working knowledge of the human body with emphasis on the functions of each major system. The interrelationship between human systems and the relationship between structure and function of each system will be studied at several levels (biochemical, cellular, organ levels). Prerequisite: Ed Fund Physiology Bridge, Chemistry and Biology

Microbiology
Microorganisms and their effects on human health are introduced, including their structure, physiology, metabolism, and genetics. Laboratory work includes aseptic technique, morphological and biochemical properties of microorganisms, and medically relevant issues regarding microorganisms. Prerequisite: Ed Fund Microbiology Bridge & Physiology