Occupational Development, A.A.S. – Advanced Home Health Aide

Program Overview

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Occupational Development-Advanced Home Health Aide is designed to provide special career training for those individuals who have completed or are in the process of completing a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) in Advanced Home Health Aide through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship.

Our program carries an apprenticeship requirement, which integrates into the formal higher education curriculum of academically sound “Registered Apprenticeship Programs” (RAPs), which are recommended by the United States Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training (BAT).  

Students in the Occupational Development Program are subject to the Blue Ridge Community and Technical College’s requirements for admissions.  Apprenticeship credits are posted after completion of 30 credits of the General Education and Classroom Instruction in the Occupation courses and upon submission of the appropriate documentation from the Department of Labor.

Program Outcomes

Prepare students for employment as an Advanced Home Health Aide.   Students will be able to:

• Provide compassionate care to patients regardless of different values, beliefs, cultures, and lifestyles.
• Demonstrate proficiency in planning safe and effective patient care.
• Maintain documentation in accordance with West Virginia and Federal Law requirements.
• Apply professional written and spoken communication skills with patients, their families, and healthcare providers.
• Provide care according to legal, ethical, and professional standards. 

Career Opportunities

There is a growing need in the United States for home health aides.  Job opportunities for this degree include employment with community healthcare providers and private pay options in individual’s homes.