Nigeria’s polytechnics offer a wide range of medical courses that provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to pursue a career in the healthcare industry. These courses range from basic healthcare to specialized fields such as nursing, laboratory technology, and medical laboratory science.
This article will provide an overview of the different medical courses offered in Nigeria’s polytechnics, including the admission requirements, course duration, and career opportunities available to graduates. Whether you’re interested in becoming a nurse, medical laboratory scientist, or other healthcare professionals, you’ll find that Nigeria’s polytechnics offer a variety of programs to suit your needs.
Medical Courses Offered In Nigeria Polytechnics
Below is a list of the medical courses offered in Nigeria Polytechnics;
- Science Laboratory Technology
- Optometry
- Medical Imaging Technology
- Nutrition and Dietetics
- Dental Therapy
- Orthopedic Cast Technology
- Biomedical Engineering Technology
- Veterinary Laboratory Technology
- Pharmaceutical Technology
- Health Information Management
1. Science Laboratory Technology
Science Laboratory Technology as a course is a multidisciplinary field that combines principles of science, technology, and management to prepare students for careers in the laboratory. It covers various topics, including laboratory safety, sample preparation, instrumentation, and data analysis.
Science Laboratory Technology students will learn how to conduct laboratory experiments, analyze data, and interpret results. They will also learn about the proper use and maintenance of laboratory equipment and the principles of laboratory management.
2. Optometry
Optometry is a healthcare profession that involves the examination, diagnosis, treatment, and management of eye diseases and disorders. It also involves the prescription, supply, and fitting of corrective lenses, such as glasses and contact lenses.
An Optometry course typically covers a wide range of topics related to the field, including:
- Anatomy and physiology of the eye
- Optics and visual physiology
- Ocular disease diagnosis and management
- Contact lenses and low vision rehabilitation
- Public health and community optometry
- Optometric instrumentation and technology
- Clinical practice and patient management
During the course, students will learn how to perform comprehensive eye examinations, diagnose and treat eye diseases, and prescribe and fit corrective lenses. They will also learn about pharmacology and the use of ocular medications, as well as the use of diagnostic instruments and technologies.
3. Medical Imaging Technology
Medical Imaging Technology as a course is a field of study that focuses on the use of advanced imaging techniques and technologies to diagnose and treat medical conditions. It encompasses a wide range of modalities, including X-ray, Ultrasound, Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Nuclear Medicine.
During the course, students will learn about the physics and technology behind medical imaging equipment, as well as the safe and efficient use of these tools in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. They will also learn about the various imaging modalities and their specific applications, including the production of images and the interpretation of those images.
The curriculum will also include anatomy, physiology, and radiological positioning, which will enable students to produce high-quality images and understand the anatomy and pathology of the body.
4. Nutrition and Dietetics
Nutrition and Dietetics as a course is a field of study that focuses on the science of food and nutrition and its relationship to health and disease. It covers a wide range of topics, including the biochemistry and physiology of nutrients, the role of diet in health promotion and disease prevention, and the assessment and management of nutritional needs for individuals and populations.
During the course, students will learn about the principles of nutrition science, including the metabolism of nutrients, the role of vitamins and minerals in health, and the impact of diet on chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
They will also learn about nutritional status assessment, including dietary assessments, anthropometric measurements, and laboratory tests. Additionally, students will learn about planning, implementing and evaluating dietary interventions for individuals and groups with specific health conditions.
5. Dental Therapy
Dental Therapy as a course is a field of study focusing on diagnosing, treating, and managing dental conditions and diseases. It covers a wide range of topics, including oral anatomy, dental materials, restorative dentistry, and preventative and therapeutic procedures for common oral health problems.
During the course, students will learn about the anatomy and physiology of the oral cavity and the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for a wide range of dental conditions. They will also learn about using various dental materials and techniques, such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and dentures, to restore damaged teeth and improve oral function.
6. Orthopedic Cast Technology
Orthopedic Cast Technology as a course is a field of study that focuses on the application and removal of orthopedic casts, which are used to support, protect, and immobilize bones and joints that have been injured or surgically repaired. It covers various topics, including anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system, casting materials and techniques, and patient management.
During the course, students will learn about the different types of orthopedic casts, the indications for their use, and the proper techniques for applying, modifying, and removing them. They will also learn about the use of various casting materials and the importance of proper fit and alignment to ensure maximum healing and function.
7. Biomedical Engineering Technology
Biomedical Engineering Technology (BMET) is a course of study that focuses on applying engineering and technology principles to the medical field. It typically includes coursework in anatomy and physiology, medical instrumentation, biomedical materials and biomaterials, and computer applications in healthcare.
The curriculum will also include laboratory work and hands-on training to give students the skills to design, develop, test, and maintain medical equipment and devices. Graduates of a BMET program may work in various settings, including hospitals, research and development labs, and medical device manufacturing companies. They may hold job titles such as biomedical equipment technician, medical equipment service engineer or a biomedical engineer technologist.
8. Veterinary Laboratory Technology
Veterinary Laboratory Technology (VLT) is a course of study focusing on the laboratory techniques and procedures used in veterinary medicine. It typically includes coursework in veterinary anatomy, physiology and pathology, hematology, microbiology, and clinical chemistry. Students in VLT programs will also receive training in laboratory techniques and procedures such as sample collection, preparation, and analysis. They will learn about laboratory equipment, laboratory diagnosis techniques, and management.
The curriculum may also include hands-on training in laboratory work, internships, and clinical rotations, giving students the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings. Graduates of VLT programs may work in various settings, such as veterinary clinics, research laboratories, diagnostic laboratories, and government agencies. They may hold job titles such as veterinary laboratory technologist, veterinary laboratory analyst, or veterinary laboratory manager.
9. Pharmaceutical Technology
Pharmaceutical Technology is a course of study that focuses on the science and technology of drug development, production, and delivery. It typically includes coursework in areas such as pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics, drug formulation and delivery, pharmaceutical analysis, and quality control. The curriculum may also include laboratory work and hands-on training in the form of internships and co-op experiences, giving students the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.
Pharmaceutical technology students will learn about the science behind the design, development, formulation, and manufacturing of drugs, as well as the regulations and quality control measures involved in bringing a drug to market. Students will be exposed to various methodologies in drug delivery, dosage forms, and the regulatory requirements for the drug industry. They will also learn about the different drug development stages, from research and development to clinical trials and the various manufacturing processes for drugs.
10. Health Information Management
Health Information Management (HIM) is a course of study that focuses on managing and using patient health information and medical records. It typically includes coursework in medical coding and classification systems, health data management, health informatics, and healthcare regulations and laws. The curriculum may also include hands-on training in the form of internships, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.
Health Information Management students will learn about the processes, technologies, and systems used to collect, store, and analyze patient health information. They will learn to use various classification systems, such as ICD-10 and CPT codes, to accurately and efficiently document patient information. They will learn to use various technology platforms and software, such as electronic health records (EHRs), to manage and analyze patient data and ensure data security and privacy compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The title “doctor” is traditionally used to refer to someone who has earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, or a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and is licensed to practice medicine. However, in some cases, the title “doctor” may also refer to individuals who have earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or a PhD in Nursing. In this case, the title “Doctor” would be an academic or professional title.
Nurses who have not earned a doctoral degree are generally not referred to as “doctor.” They are referred to by their specific nursing titles, such as Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). However, some nurses may use the title “Dr.” if they have earned a doctoral degree in nursing, or as an honorary title.
Students who graduate from a School of Nursing are required to complete the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, just like graduates from other higher education institutions. During the NYSC program, nursing graduates are often posted to work in rural health centers, primary health centers, and hospitals, where they can apply their skills and knowledge to serve their country while gaining valuable experience. After completing the NYSC program, nursing graduates are qualified and eligible to work as professional nurses in Nigeria.
Nursing education can be challenging and rigorous, as it involves a lot of practical and theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. Different students may find different aspects of nursing education to be difficult. However, here are some of the subjects or specialties that some nursing students may find challenging:
1. Pharmacology: This subject covers the study of drugs, their actions, side effects, and interactions with the body. It can be difficult for students to learn and memorize all the different drugs, their uses, and potential side effects.
2. Pathophysiology: This subject covers the study of changes in the body’s normal functions due to a disease or injury. It can be difficult for students to understand the complex mechanisms behind different diseases and how they affect the body.
3. Mental Health: This subject covers the study of mental health and the assessment and treatment of mental disorders. It can be difficult for students to understand the complex psychological and social factors contributing to mental health issues.
References
- https://www.schooldrillers.com/toughest-medical-courses-in-polytechnics-3/
- https://www.schoolcontents.info/2020/10/medical-courses-offered-at-polytechnics.html
- https://goldennewsng.com/list-of-polytechnics-offering-medical-courses/
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