Health Sciences

Welcome to the Health Sciences division at Heartland Community College.

Looking for a job in a field where you can make a difference? Health Sciences programs have proven successful in teaching students the skills needed to obtain in-demand careers. Whether caring for patients during emergencies or illness, or promoting overall health, graduates gain practical, professional skills and make a real impact in the community.

Health Science Programs

Explore our departments to find information about courses and program requirements:

Some Health Sciences programs have additional admission requirements. Select your preferred program above to view specific admission details for each area of study.

Health Sciences Programs at a Glance

Profession	Time to Complete	Wage & Salary	Projected Job Growth	Program Cost*
Nursing (RN) Provide and coordinate patient care	2 years (Associate Degree)	$39/hr ($81,000)	16%	$18,500
Radiography Technologist Perform diagnostic imaging exams	2 years (Associate Degree)	$30/hr ($65,000)	6%	$18,000
Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Assist patients with recovery and mobility	2 years (Associate Degree)	$28/hr ($58,240)	19%	$18,000
EMT-Paramedic Provide emergency medical care and transport	18 months – 2 years (Certification)	$22/hr ($49,000)	14%	$8,500
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Support clinical and administrative tasks in healthcare settings	10 months (Certification)	$20/hr ($41,600)	23%	$8,000
Recovery Support Specialist Assist individuals with behavioral health recovery	10 months (Certification)	$18/hr ($37,440)	19%	$2,520
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Provide basic patient care	8–16 weeks (Certification)	$18/hr ($37,440)	23%	$1,800
Phlebotomist Draw blood and prepare lab specimens	16 weeks (Certification)	$20/hr ($41,600)	8%	$1,000
Dental Assistant Assist with patient care and office tasks	8 weeks (Certificate of Completion)	$21/hr ($43,680)	8%	$700
Veterinary Assistant Assist with animal care	8 weeks (Certificate of Completion)	$17/hr ($35,700)	19%	$650

*Program cost is an estimate based on in-district tuition and is subject to change.

Information Meetings

Information Meetings provide an overview of the Health Sciences programs and admission processes. Though attendance is not mandatory, these meetings provide an opportunity to ask questions of Admissions and program staff and are intended to help make the application process as smooth as possible for prospective students. All information meetings are held at the main campus in Normal, IL unless otherwise noted.

Informational Session(s)
Room	Day and Time
Please register for this event here.	Tuesday, March 3rd at 5:00 PM.

Facilities

Our classrooms and laboratories are designed to mirror real healthcare settings, giving students an authentic, career-focused learning experience. State-of-the-art simulation mannequins replicate realistic patient conditions, allowing students to practice procedures, critical thinking, and clinical decision-making in a safe, supportive environment.

These spaces simulate real workplace scenarios—from patient interaction to equipment use—so students build confidence and competence before entering clinical sites. With hands-on activities integrated into every course, learners actively apply concepts, refine technical skills, and collaborate as healthcare professionals do on the job.

Nursing Simulation Lab: Images of mannequins and/or students in scrubs using simulation or virtual reality tools.
Radiography Lab: Images of students using X-ray equipment, portable devices, and simulation mannequins.
Medical Assistant Lab: Images of phlebotomy training arms, exam tables, and clinical practice setups.