Overview
Founded in 1977, San Joaquin Valley College provides certificate and Associate Degree programs in the business, medical and technical career fields. Graduates can earn an A.S. degree in as few as 14 months, and be prepared to start a new career.
Our students enjoy accelerated classroom learning, individual attention and a head start into a career through working in externships. Flexible morning, afternoon and evening class schedules accommodate working adults and busy students who might otherwise miss opportunities. Career placement assistance is available to students and graduates of SJVC.
Business
Program Highlights
SJVC’s Business Administration program provides a framework of office procedures and skills that can adapt to any company’s operation. Students develop into knowledgeable, ethical and technologically competent business professionals. You learn to organize and manage work tasks, sales and management techniques, general office procedures, as well as many computer applications.
Learn
Professional Writing
Microsoft® Office Software
Accounting Principles
Economics & Finance
Business Ethics
Human Resources
Business Operations
Our learn-by-doing approach will help you develop the skills you need to build your career.
Career Opportunities
Employers want to hire those who are familiar not only with business technology and equipment but also with appropriate business practices and communication. Business Administration training qualifies you for a variety of career paths:
Executive Assistant
Administrative Assistant
Accounts Payable Clerk
Customer Service Representative
Collections Officer
Bookkeeper
Payroll Clerk
Account Manager
Data Entry Clerk
Certifications Earned
Graduates are eligible to take the Microsoft® Office Specialist exam for Microsoft® certification in Word, PowerPoint®, Excel and Access.
Depending on the campus and program selected, graduates earn a Certificate of Completion or Associate of Science Degree. Certificate graduates may continue on to earn their AS degree through SJVC or SJVC Online.
Program Highlights
San Joaquin Valley College’s Construction Management program provides graduates with the technical and managerial skills needed in today’s commercial and residential construction industry. Students are prepared for the management responsibilities they will face on the job, creating an opportunity to move into supervision and construction management.
Learn
Architectural design theory
Construction methods
Construction communication procedures
Industry software
Industry laws & regulations
Estimating & bidding for residential and commercial projects
Scheduling & control of a project
Competitive business presentations
Methods of field supervision
Technical writing, algebra & geometry
Every Construction Management student receives a personal laptop computer to use in the completion of all coursework. The laptop is included with the program, and graduates take it with them into their new career.
Career Opportunities
There is a growing need in the construction industry for qualified, educated supervisors and management personnel. Graduates can work in a variety of roles:
First line supervisor
Estimator
Foreman
Construction manager
Project manager
Site manager
Things you might do on the job
Plan and prepare bids for prospective buyers
Plan, schedule and control construction projects
Prepare and deliver presentations within the construction industry
Manage and supervise construction sites
This is a good career choice if you
Like working in an exciting, fast-paced environment
Like problem solving
Like being a team leader
Are detail oriented
Have previous construction experience
Graduates from SJVC’s Construction Management program have the confidence and skills to step into a variety of management roles in the construction industry. Employers trust our graduates to be among the best in their chosen field.
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree in Construction Management.
Program Highlights
SJVC’s Criminal Justice program stretches beyond the minimum training required by law with an in depth combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Coursework includes criminal law, evidence collection and preservation, report writing and criminal procedures.
Learn
Arrest/control techniques
Firearms use
CPR/First Aid
Weaponless defense tactics
Career Opportunities
A career in Corrections can take you in a number of directions in law enforcement agencies and correctional fields, including:
Corrections Officer
Detention Officer
Jail Transport Officer
Detention Specialist
Deputy Corrections Officer
Career path growth with additional education or training could take you into areas such as Corrections Sergeant, Administrative Supervisor, Parole Officer, Warden or Deputy Sheriff.
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree.
Admissions Requirements
In addition to good physical health and U.S. citizenship, other student admission requirements include:
- Minimum of 21 years of age at conclusion of Corrections program
- Must not have been convicted of a felony or be prohibited from possessing a firearm
- Must not have been convicted of illegal use or sales of any narcotic or drugs
- Must have a valid California driver license
- Must provide evidence of physical fitness
- Must have a handgun with holster and fingerprint clearance from the California Department of Justice to participate in range training
- Must qualify on written career assessment and obtain satisfactory score on profile assessment
- Must pass appraisal interview conducted by SJVC College Director, Corrections Officer Program Director or instructor
Program Highlights
SJVC’s Emergency Services and Safety Management program prepares you to work in many areas of safety and security, both public and private. If you enjoy variety in your work, can be trusted with confidential information, and are analytical, this is the career for you!
Learn
Cal/OSHA compliance
Illness and injury prevention
CPR & First Aid
Environmental management
Public safety management
Career Opportunities
Well-trained emergency services and safety management personnel are always in demand, and can work in diverse roles:
Community Service Officer
Security/Safety Officer
Campus Security
Armed Alarm Response Agent
Airport Security
Transportation Security
Loss Prevention Officer
Healthcare Security
Certifications Earned
Graduates from the ESSM program earn an Associate of Science Degree and are eligible for certifications in Healthcare Security and Safety basic; HAZMAT; HAZWOP; General Industry Safety & Health; Contractor Confined Spaces; International Association for Healthcare Security & Safety (IAHSS)-Healthcare Facility Security Officer; First Aid & CPR; PC 832 Laws of Arrest/Firearms; Chemical Agents; Bureau of Security & Investigative Services (BSIS) Guard Card, Firearms.
Admissions Requirements
Emergency Systems and Safety Management students must not currently be on probation for any offense nor have ever been convicted of a felony. Further, to receive firearm certification you must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident Alien, must not be prohibited from possessing a firearm under Federal or State laws and must have an approved handgun and holster.
Program Highlights
SJVC’s Health Care Administration program gives you the expert training you need to perform front office duties in a health care setting. Course studies include office management, medical terminology, patient record keeping, bookkeeping, accounting, insurance claims preparation, professional communication, general operation of a health care facility and computer training using Microsoft Office and Medical Manager.
Learn
Medical insurance principles
Computer concepts
Insurance coding
Medical terminology
Medical billing
Economics & finance
Students complete an extensive externship in the field under the direct supervision of an office manager or medical director.
Career Opportunities
Well-trained health care administrators are in demand by busy medical and dental offices, hospitals, clinics, laboratories, billing offices and medical supply distributors. You can expect to qualify for such roles as:
Front office assistant
Billing or insurance clerk
Data entry clerk
Collections clerk
Admitting clerk
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and are eligible to sit for the RMA-Administration exam.
Program Highlights
SJVC’s Health Care Insurance Specialist program prepares you to process health claims, provide insurance coding, keep patient records and manage a medical office, using a variety of health care insurance principles and computer applications. Training includes specialized courses in the international classification of diseases, current procedural terminology and legal issues in health insurance.
Learn
Medical office procedures
Medical insurance principles
Medical terminology
ICD-9-CM & CPT coding
An externship program allows students to participate in real-world work experience under the direction of a medical office manager or director.
Career Opportunities
Well-trained health care insurance specialists are needed in a variety of health care, laboratory, insurance and billing service settings. You can expect to work in such positions as:
Medical billing specialist
Patient account representative
Health claims examiner
Insurance coder
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and are eligible to take the Certified Insurance Coder exam given by the American Academy of Procedural Coders.
Program Highlights
SJVC’s Human Resource Administration program offers training in the procedures, policies and practices found in today’s human resource departments. Our students develop personal, professional and human relations skills necessary to perform the duties of a human resource administrator.
Learn
Personnel hiring and evaluation practices
Staff training and development
Employee benefits administration
Compensation structures
Payroll management
Labor Laws
Hands-on training also includes a variety of computer applications, including Microsoft Office Suite using word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation software.
Career Opportunities
Capable human resource management is the backbone of any successful business. Those skilled in this area are qualified for many career roles:
Human Resource Specialist
Human Resource Generalist
Compensation or Benefit Analyst
Training and Development Coordinator
Payroll Specialist
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and are prepared to take the Microsoft Office User Specialist certification exam.
Our Administrative Health Care Management program prepares you to work in the front office of a medical clinic or hospital. Hands-on training includes office management, patient record keeping, bookkeeping and accounting and professional communication.
Medical
Program Highlights
SJVC’s Clinical and Administrative Medical Assisting (CAMA) program trains you in both administrative and clinical medical procedures for medical offices and specialty clinics. A Medical Assistant is a professional, multi-skilled member of the health care team who is dedicated to assisting in patient care.
Learn
Insurance billing
Appointment scheduling
Patient information coding
Injection Administration
Electrocardiograms
Venipuncture & skin puncture
CPR & First Aid
Training includes a clinical externship which allows students to further their studies in a real-world medical environment.
Career Opportunities
A well-trained medical assistant is qualified to work in a variety of medical environments such as medical offices, clinics, hospitals, laboratories, medical supply and equipment sales or insurance billing companies. Some positions include:
Medical assistant
Medical records clerk
Ward clerk
Medical secretary
Admissions Clerk
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and are eligible to sit for the Registered Medical Assistant exam (RMA).
Program Highlights
The Clinical Medical Assisting program at SJVC offers extensive back office training to provide support to physicians and direct patient care in a variety of medical settings. Training includes a balance of classroom instruction with laboratory experience to create the best opportunity for student understanding and performance.
Learn
Injection Administration
Electrocardiograms
Venipuncture & skin puncture
CPR & first aid
Assisting in minor surgery
Front office procedures
Basic lab tests
Patient education
Taking & recording vital signs
Career Opportunities
Health care careers are on the rise and expected to increase dramatically in the years ahead as an aging population requires growing medical attention. Graduates can expect to secure positions in a variety of career roles:
Clinical Medical Assistant
Medical Secretary
Occupational Health Assistant
Laboratory Assistant
With additional education or training career path advancement might take you into areas such as Licensed Practical Nurse, Emergency Medical Technician, Recreational Therapist, Physician Assistant or other advanced nursing positions.
Certifications Earned
Depending on campus and program, graduates earn an Associate of Science degree or Certificate and are prepared to sit for the Registered Medical Assistant Exam (RMA).
Program Highlights
SJVC’s Dental Assisting program trains you in all aspects of working with a dentist, including patient care, office and laboratory duties. Our balance of hands-on experience with classroom instruction covers all aspects of dental assisting skills and related theory. Whether you use your dental assisting training for a career chairside or in an administrative capacity, you are well prepared at the program’s completion.
Learn
Dental anatomy
Dental radiology
Dental software
Preventive dentistry
Dental practice management
Dental science
Coronal polishing
Career Opportunities
Dental Assisting is an in-demand job with many work environment options available. As a dental assistant or dental office employee, you can expect to work in such areas as:
Private dental offices
Dental colleges
Dental laboratories
Private or government hospitals
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and certifications in First Aid, coronal polish, radiology and CPR. Graduates are also eligible to take the State of California Board of Dental Examiners Examination for State Licensure as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA).
Programmatic Accreditation
San Joaquin Valley College’s Dental Assisting program is accredited by the State Board of Dental Examiners, Committee on Dental Auxiliaries and California Department of Consumer Affairs.
Program Highlights
SJVC’s Pharmacy Technology program prepares you to work under the direct supervision of a Registered Pharmacist as part of a team responsible for carrying out a doctor’s pharmaceutical orders. Pharmacy Technicians assist in the various activities of compounding, distributing and dispensing of medications.
Learn
Pharmacy law and ethics
Pharmacology
Computer data entry
Pharmacy science & clinical applications
Prescription processing
Training includes a balance of classroom and lab instruction, as well as an externship component, which allows you experiential learning in an actual clinical environment.
Career Opportunities
A well-trained pharmacy technician can expect to work in a highly respected, professional environment as an integral part of a health care team. Pharmacy technicians work in areas such as:
Franchise pharmacies
Home health care agencies
Correctional facilities
Hospitals
Pharmaceutical outside sales
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and are qualified for licensure with the State of California to be registered as a Pharmacy Technician (PhT). Graduates are eligible to take the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Board’s examination to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), recognized nationally as an exceptional pharmacy technician candidate.
Program Highlights
SJVC’s Respiratory Therapy program prepares you to be a member of an elite health care team that evaluates, treats and manages patients with respiratory illnesses and other cardiopulmonary disorders. In addition to performing respiratory care procedures, respiratory therapists are involved in clinical decision-making and patient education.
Learn
Microbiology, chemistry, and anatomy and physiology
Computer applications, ethics and psychology
Pathology, pharmacology and resuscitation
Mechanical ventilation of adults, pediatrics, and newborns
Hemodynamics, physical assessment and oxygen delivery
Monitoring, radiography and airway management
Students receive over 900 hours of extensive clinical practice in hospitals and clinics to gain real world experience.
Career Opportunities
Well-trained respiratory therapists are in tremendous demand in such areas as acute care hospitals, durable medical equipment companies, sub-acute facilities, home care agencies, physicians’ offices, or managed care organizations; as well as specialized areas, such as sleep labs and pulmonary function labs. Some position opportunities include:
Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT)
Neonatal-Pediatric Specialist (NPS)
Clinical Educator/Clinical Specialist
Pulmonary Rehabilitation/Asthma Specialist
Biomedical/Research/Sales
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and are eligible for state licensure and national credentialing examinations, including Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).
Programmatic Accreditation
Programmatic accreditation status varies by campus.
Program Highlights
Our Surgical Technology program prepares you to be an integral part of a medical team whose responsibility it is to exercise precise and harmonious procedures and practices in an operating room environment. Surgical technologists work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses and other surgical personnel to deliver the highest level of patient care.
Learn
Medical terminology
Legal, moral and ethical aspects
Surgical procedures
Surgical techniques
CPR and First Aid
Instruction also includes an extensive clinical rotation to give students hands-on experience in the surgical environment.
Career Opportunities
Well-trained Surgical Technologists are in high demand. You can expect to work in professional environments such as:
Hospital operating rooms
Physician's offices
Surgery centers
Emergency departments
Dental surgery offices
Delivery rooms
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and are eligible to take the National Certification exam for Surgical Technologists.
Programmatic Accreditation
San Joaquin Valley College’s Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Program Overview
San Joaquin Valley College has developed an exciting new A.S. Degree program offering hands-on training and education for a rewarding career in Therapeutic Massage. Graduates are prepared to practice massage therapy in a variety of professional environments such as medical offices, private practices, spas and salons, or sports clinics. The program covers massage and bodywork therapy techniques, as well as massage therapy business practices and customer/client relations.
Learn
Swedish Massage Therapy and Advanced Techniques
Deep Tissue and Neuromuscular Therapy
Sports Massage
Shiatsu
Spa Therapies, Techniques and Modalities
Spa Management
Business and Practice Essentials
Anatomy and Physiology
Palpation and Myology
Palpation and Kinesiology
Clinical Pathology
CPR & First Aid
You will gain real-world experience at an onsite clinic, working and learning under the supervision of a massage therapy professional.
Career Opportunities
Because more people are finding out about the health benefits of therapeutic massage, the opportunities to work in the bodywork therapy industry are expanding. Massage therapists work in private practices or in the medical field with doctors, nurses, physical therapists, chiropractors and acupuncturists.
Graduates are prepared to practice message therapy in a variety of professional environments:
Spas, Medical Spas and Salons
Athletic and Sports Clubs
Cruise Ships
Vacation Resorts and Hotels
Family Health Clinics and Centers
Hospitals
Nursing Homes
Things you might do on the job
Assess patient/client conditions
Create and adjust massage therapy treatment plans
Perform appropriate therapeutic treatments
Provide client education
This is a good career choice if you…
Are empathetic to others
Enjoy working in close contact with others
Enjoy variety in your work
Are neat and well groomed with a pleasant personality
Are responsible and dependable
Can be accepting and non-judgmental of those you treat
Certification Earned
Graduates earn a Certificate or Associate of Science Degree in Therapeutic Massage and are eligible to sit for the National Certification Examination for Massage and Bodywork Therapy (NCBTMB), an exam used in 33 states across the country for licensure.
Program Highlights
Our Veterinary Technology program prepares you the with the skills you need to help animals when they need it most. This in-depth training covers all areas of animal patient care, from lab tests to radiology procedures and surgical assisting. Curriculum also focuses on communication skills involving pet owner education and counseling for the care of sick animals, as well as preventive measures.
Learn
Fundamentals of animal nursing
Pharmacology
Diagnostic imaging
Front office procedures
Diseases of small animals
Laboratory procedures
Surgical assisting
Communication skills
Farm animal medicine
Training also includes extensive externship rotations in various animal care environments, giving students real-world medical experience.
Career Opportunities
Veterinary Technicians work as a professional assistant to a veterinarian and work in a variety of settings such as:
Companion animal clinics
Emergency medicine
Animal shelters
Animal control
Zoo or wild animal parks
Biomedical research institutions
Animal training facilities
Pet nutrition educators
Veterinary pharmaceutical representatives
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and are eligible to work as a Veterinary Assistant.
Upon completion of this program, students can qualify to take the State Board exam under the alternate route. Students can refer to the California Veterinary Medical board website for complete details. http://www.vmb.ca.gov
Technical
Program Highlights
San Joaquin Valley College’s Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program gives you the skills and technical knowledge to perform aircraft, airframe and powerplant overhaul. Hands-on training in the hangar includes maintenance, servicing, troubleshooting and repair of powerplant systems and components.
Learn
Aircraft engine repair
Airframe repair
Assemble/disassemble parts
Propeller & engine systems
Basic electricity & electronics
Turbine/jet engine systems
Fuel metering systems
Sheet metal structures
Our AMT program focuses on preparing you for certification as an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic.
Career Opportunities
Graduates can expect to work for airlines, commuter and corporate air fleets, airfreight companies, as well as in specialized areas such as aviation inspection positions with the Federal Aviation Administration.
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and are prepared to test for an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Programmatic Accreditation
San Joaquin Valley College’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program is accredited by the Federal Aviation Administration. SJVC is approved by the California State Approving Agency to enroll veterans and other eligible persons.
Program Highlights
San Joaquin Valley College’s Computer Support Technology (CST) program provides an in-depth study of the operating systems, applications and network elements of today’s businesses. The focus is on Microsoft® and CompTIA certifications, as well as computer help desk concepts and technology.
Learn
Installation and maintenance of computer systems & servers
Computer hardware and operating systems
Troubleshooting and help desk support
Microsoft® and internet networking technologies
Network security and maintenance
Coursework prepares you to test for certification in 10 areas of computer knowledge and proficiency. All first-round testing expenses are included with tuition.
Career Opportunities
Well-trained computer support technicians are in high demand. You’ll be prepared to work in virtually any business that utilizes computers in roles such as:
Computer Support Technician
Help Desk Representative
Network Administrator
Hardware Technician
Network Technician
Things You Might Do on the Job
Install and maintain computer operating systems
Set-up and administrate computer networks
Maintenance of internet, intranet and extranet infrastructure
Manage help desk & provide user support
Implement network security
Certifications Earned
Graduates of the Visalia CST program earn an Associate of Science degree and are eligible to take exams for CompTIA and Microsoft® certifications.
Career Opportunities
This program is designed to provide fundamental, hands-on training of industrial systems and equipment. Students will study and master the basic principles, applications, concepts, and functions of hydraulic systems, bearing and seal types, and power transmission components.
Learn
Electrical theory
Motor control
Programmable logic controllers
Fluid power systems
Bearing applications
Power transmission systems
Career Opportunities
Employers are looking for individuals who can operate and maintain the equipment required for the operation of modern industrial facilities. Troubleshooting skills and the ability to communicate solutions are valuable assets to these organizations. With SJVC’s hands-on approach to training, you’ll be qualified to go right to work in a variety of commercial and manufacturing settings.
Maintenance Technician
Production Supervisor
Hydraulic Technician
Machine Operator
Plant Electrician
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn a Certificate of Completion and may choose to continue their education and earn an Associate of Science Degree through SJVC or SJVC Online.
Program Highlights
The Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration program at SJVC prepares you for year-round job security in a high-demand field. Training focuses on theories of heating, refrigeration and air conditioning. Students study the operation, maintenance and repair of residential and commercial equipment.
Learn
Diagnostic practices
Correct hazardous waste disposal
Science of heating and cooling principles
Basic theories of electricity
Our hands-on approach to teaching allows you to develop the skills you need for an HVACR career.
Career Opportunities
A Refrigeration and Air Conditioning service technician is qualified to work in many areas including:
- Residential heating/cooling (household refrigeration and appliance repair)
- Commercial refrigeration heating and cooling installation (mini marts, retail stores, restaurants, hotels, office complexes, food
storage and processing plants)
- Industrial refrigeration (cold storage and manufacturing plants)
- Transport refrigeration (truck/trailer refrigeration, railroad, ocean-going and air freight)
Certifications Earned
Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and HVACR Excellence certification, as well as Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Industry (ARI) competency testing.
Medical, technical and business programs availability varies by campus
Financial Assistance
Financial aid is available to qualified students in the form of federal and state grants, loans, work-study, scholarships and institutional payment plans.