Our programs and offerings put participants in touch with the many faces and flavors of front-line healthcare in a practical way. From giving grade school kids their first, exciting glimpse into a health career, to preparing college students to find their way, promoting knowledge and best practices among working professionals, Illinois AHEC provides the learning, experience and inspiration for better health services in all underserved areas of Illinois. Our programs also assist and enrich the communities they serve and with whom we partner.

Programs for Students in K-12 – Preparation for a health career starts early in a child’s education. Exposure to possibilities, opportunities to observe health professionals at work, and guidance in terms of course work during the elementary and high school years is crucial and can make all the difference. Bachelors-level health science programs are specialized, and high school graduates need to be prepared when they apply. College is not the only path. Certified health care workers play a critical role in the health system. Our “pipeline” programs for give young people give a head start toward a health career.

Programs for Post-Secondary Students – Undergraduate education is a key to a successful health career. Bachelor’s level preparation can open the door to opportunities in nursing, social work, public health, biotechnology, bioengineering, health informatics, ultrasound technology, radiologic technology, dietetics, dental hygiene and many others.

Programs for Graduates and Health Professionals – Graduate programs can increase opportunities for healthcare workers who entered the workforce with a bachelor’s degree. As an example, many registered nurses choose to obtain a master’s degree in order to become an advanced practice nurse, midwife or nurse administrator. AHEC programs help guide these career decisions and offer enrichment programs to ensure that students are fully prepared to enter the workforce.

Continuing Education – Many professions require continuing education credits in order to maintain licensure. Common topics include: emerging diseases and conditions, population health considerations, social determinants of health and updates on clinical guidelines. By connecting professionals with continuing education opportunities, we help working professionals keep up with best practices in the rapidly changing health industry and acquire the new skills and certifications needed to advance in their careers.

Community – Our health workforce development activities have many partners in our communities – and they also give back to those communities in meaningful ways. Our participants provide real healthcare services as they train, and our events help health educate the public about health. Above all, we both inspire and help train health professionals oriented to careers in rural and underserved urban areas.

(Shown above, young students in safety gear learn some of the lab skills and techniques required for high-demand health care careers.)