Healthcare Professions Skills Credential Equips Students to Thrive in Health Careers

July 25, 2024

By Stephanie Godward, Communications and Marketing Director, College of Arts and Sciences

As the healthcare industry continues to grow and evolve, the need for skilled professionals becomes increasingly critical. The University of Louisville’s College of Arts & Sciences is addressing this need with its innovative Healthcare Professions Skills credential through the Department of Biology.

The current credential and its courses give students an avenue to explore a myriad of healthcare careers through hands-on experience, comprehensive training, and two consecutive internship placements through established community partnerships—all preparing them for diverse careers in healthcare.

As the first cohort progresses, Dr. Samiyyah Sledge, Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology and Director of the Healthcare Professions Skills Credential, is passionate about expanding students' awareness of healthcare careers.

"There's a critical need for trained healthcare professionals in Kentucky. This program helps students explore various healthcare professions, including but not limited to the more popular options like medicine and nursing,” Dr. Sledge states. “Students can also explore career paths such as audiology, medical laboratory technology, and healthcare management, as well as work with the houseless and other underserved populations.  I want students to see there is something out there for you. You don’t have to put yourself in a box. There’s something out there for everyone, for all personalities.”

The credential, which launched in Fall 2023, consists of four courses, two of which are guaranteed internships. Dr. Sledge emphasizes that it’s open to all students, regardless of their major, as long as they have completed introductory biology and chemistry courses and have an interest in healthcare.

"We aim to ensure that students are well-prepared for subsequent stages of their journey toward a career in the healthcare industry upon completion of the program," she explains. "This could involve progression to professional schools or entry into the healthcare marketplace."

A Comprehensive Training Experience

The lab component of the credential offers formal training in tasks students may encounter in clinical and research labs, medical offices, and other healthcare settings. Students gain confidence and practical skills, preparing them for internships already established through existing community partnerships.

"The lab experience is fun and informative, providing students with a variety of tasks to enhance their readiness for real-world applications," Dr. Sledge notes.

In addition to practicing healthcare-related tasks through lab work, the courses include essential training such as HIPAA compliance, bloodborne pathogens, CPR certification, and more. These components ensure that students are well-prepared for their internships and future careers.

Ashley Shuffler: Exploring Genetics and Genetic Counseling

For Ashley Shuffler, a third-year biology major, the credential provided clarity on her own career path. Initially uncertain about her specific future in healthcare, Ashley had the chance to explore her options and discover a passion for genetics and genetic counseling through the Healthcare Profession Skills Credential.

"This program opened my eyes to various career options," she said. “I was able to learn that I really like genetics and genetic counseling, because if someone has a genetic need or a genetic condition, then you work with the doctor to determine the best tests for them, or you help them to take steps to become healthier. I thought it was interesting to blend empathy work with healthcare.”

Interning at the Markey Cancer Affiliated Network, Ashley gained insight into healthcare management and the importance of educating future healthcare professionals on various aspects of their potential careers. Her coursework for the credential also honed her technical skills in the lab, where she performed tasks like blood smears and sterilization.

"I gained invaluable experience that will benefit my future career," Ashley adds.

Nelia Smithson: A Pathway to Speech Pathology

Nelia Smithson, a third-year neuroscience major, shared her desire to join the first cohort of this credential because of the resume-building experiences it provides.

"I wanted to join this program because when you're going into healthcare, it's important to show that you have real-world, hands-on experience," Nelia explains. "It’s crucial to understand the dynamics of a clinic and how various roles collaborate to ensure a successful patient experience."

Nelia, who aspires to a career in speech pathology, emphasizes the credential’s impact on her professional growth.

"This program has shown me the importance of teamwork among medical assistants, doctors, nurses, and healthcare managers. I’ve learned to be adaptable and to value communication and collaboration."

Her internship at the UofL Trager Institute, focusing on patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s, has been particularly enlightening.

"I've learned how to interact with patients efficiently and compassionately, a skill that puts me ahead of the game," she says.

Through the courses offered, she also received specific training that made her even more internship-ready and job-ready. She has also taken away a valuable lesson about how to use constructive criticism as an opportunity to improve and grow.

“I went into the lab, and I did things I have never done before,” she said. “You have to be able to be in the lab and be told when you are doing something wrong so that you can make sure you’re not contaminating something or learning how to complete processes correctly to get the right results.”

A Bright Future Ahead

As the first cohort of students earning  the Healthcare Professions Skills credential approach completion this December, the impact on students like Nelia Smithson and Ashley Shuffler is evident. This credential not only prepares them for their chosen careers but also broadens their horizons, showing them the multitude of opportunities available in healthcare. For students interested, the Healthcare Professions Skills credential offers a unique and valuable path forward with guaranteed internship placements. With comprehensive training, hands-on experience, and a focus on teamwork and communication, the program equips future healthcare professionals with the skills they need to succeed.

For more information, click here: Clinical Skills in Health Professions Digital Credential — Department of Biology (louisville.edu) or email samiyyah.sledge@louisville.edu.

UofL’s School of Public Health and Information Sciences is a partner in this work.