The Health Careers program at Old Colony provides students with an introduction to the diversity of opportunities in the field of allied health care, as well as quality preparation to enter the world of employment and/or further training and education within the health field. These goals are accomplished through applied theory, instruction within the clinical laboratory, and relevant clinical affiliations. The Health Careers curriculum meets the Massachusetts Vocational Technical Frameworks for Health Assisting. All students enrolled in the Health Careers program receive instruction leading to state certification as a nursing assistant. Supervised externship experience is provided in both long term and acute care settings. Co-operative education and placement opportunities are available to all senior students. This experience provides students with further development of their competencies, and a realistic work environment. Academic preparation includes a solid foundation in the principles of anatomy and physiology, understanding the disease process, investigation into the concepts of health promotion and disease prevention, and attention to relevant and contemporary health issues.