Health Occupations year 1 Course Description
HEALTH OCCUPATIONS YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP I (HOYA I)
|
Level: |
11th and 12th grades |
|
Class Location: |
St. John Church, Freeport |
|
Time: |
|
|
Length: |
One year |
|
H.S. Credit: |
2 credits per year |
|
Post Sec Credit: |
Highland Community College – Dual Credit** 8 credits (for students successfully completing the C.N.A. theory and clinical training)
|
|
Prerequisite: |
Keyboarding skills, immunization documentation, satisfactory completion of Algebra 1, and at least an 8th grade reading level, which will be confirmed through Accuplacer exam score of at least 220. Prior to acceptance into the HOYA (Heath Occupations) program, students also must submit a short written paragraph explaining their interest in the program and outlining their goals. Students pursuing CNA training must present a state-issued photo ID and Social Security or ITIN number on or before the first day of class to be eligible for the State of Illinois CNA exam (no exceptions, per IDPH regulations). |
|
CAREERTEC Fees: |
$213 ($80 drug screen, $20 workbook, $25 Textbook rental, $6 name tag, $22 CPR, $60 scrub uniform), to be paid by student/parent at high school during registration. In the event of a non-negative drug screen, the student will be assessed an additional fee of $26 for the screen to be sent to an independent lab. |
|
HCC Fees: |
$15 registration fee for spring semester, made payable to HCC |
|
Optional Fees: |
$85 CNA state testing fee (paid at time of state registration). Students may purchase their textbook at replacement cost. |
|
Calendar: |
This course follows the CAREERTEC calendar |
|
State Course ID: |
Sem1: 14002A002(Health Occupation Introductory Concepts and Skill Development); Sem2: 14051A001 (Nursing Assistant I, NURS 109) |
Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing industries worldwide, encompassing a broad range of professions including nursing, medicine, laboratory technology, respiratory therapy, occupational and physical therapy, and surgical and allied health support roles. HOYA I provides a structured introduction to healthcare occupations, focusing on foundational knowledge, essential skills, and professional standards applicable across multiple healthcare settings. Classroom instruction is integrated with introductory job shadow experiences, allowing students to observe and explore various healthcare environments. The course is designed to prepare students for more advanced postsecondary study and career-specific training within the healthcare field.
Students must provide documentation of a two-step tuberculosis (TB) skin test or TB blood test (lab test), as well as proof of Hepatitis B vaccination prior to the start of the class. TB tests (both 2-step and lab test) can be obtained at the county health department or your physician’s office for a fee; appointments should be made.
*COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations may be required by partner healthcare facilities prior to job shadowing or clinicals, but are not required by CareerTEC.
In accordance with healthcare standards, students are subject to random and reasonable suspicion alcohol and drug screenings. Any student who tests positive will be removed from the program.
Students are offered the opportunity to complete Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training as part of the course. A total of 40 hours of clinical instruction will be conducted one day per month from December through April during the regular school day. Students who successfully complete both the theory and clinical components of the program with a minimum grade of 80% or higher will be eligible to sit for the State of Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Examination, administered at Highland Community College in late May or early June.
Suggested preparatory courses include Algebra I, computer literacy, keyboarding skills, strong science background, competent writing skills, and a strong interest in health-related careers. Students may be responsible for their own transportation to and from Job Shadow sites, clinical sites, community service activities and some field trips. Dual credit at HCC: NURS 109.
All fees listed are approximate and are subject to change.













Launch the media gallery 1 player