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What is the difference between certificate programs and degree programs? What are the application deadlines for these programs? Is financial aid available? Will I be able to work while enrolled in these programs? Are jobs available in these fields? How do I know if allied health is right for me? Can I come and tour the UNC facilities? What is the difference between certificate programs and degree programs? Certificate programs are designed to give you valuable job skills in a shorter period of time than degree programs. Both CLS and Cytotechnology offer 12 month post-baccalaureate certificate programs; in order to enter these programs you must already have a degree and have completed all the necessary prerequisites. Currently students in the certificate programs are exempt from tuition and are only required to pay for fees and books. After completion of either of the certificate programs, you will be eligible to take the national certification exam in the specific areas in which you trained. back to top What are the application deadlines for these programs? Application deadlines vary by program. Generally students begin applying in late fall or early spring of the academic year before they intend to begin the program (for example if you are applying to begin the CLS certificate program in fall 2004 you would begin the application process in late fall 2003 or early spring 2004). Most programs suggest that you submit application materials no later than March 1st. Please see the specific program website for more detailed information on deadlines. back to top Is financial aid available? Scholarships and financial aid are available to students in all three programs. Please see the Financial Aid link under the "Prospective Students" section for a detailed listing of available aid. back to top Will I be able to work while enrolled in these programs? We do not encourage students to work while in our programs, but we do recognize that it may be necessary. The decision to work is a personal one, and you must judge for yourself whether you are capable of juggling a rigorous academic program with work responsibilities. If you do decide to work you will need to have a job that will not interfere with class and laboratory time; we do not excuse students from class for work reasons. If you do need to work, the CLS certificate program may be a good choice because it requires less classroom time (see sample schedules under "Prospective Students"). back to top Are jobs available in these fields? In today's unsteady economy, jobs in health care are some of the most stable you will find. CLS, cytotechnology, and radiologic science graduates are all currently in demand and are expected to continue to be over the next decade. back to top How do I know if allied health is right for me? Generally students who do well in allied health are those that have an interest in science and laboratory work, have good problem-solving skills, good communication skills, and want to use science to help people. If there is a specific field you are interested in, the best way to learn if it is right for you is to shadow someone in the field or find volunteer opportunities in that area. Check with your local hospital to see what opportunities are available. Can I come and tour the UNC facilities? We encourage students to come and visit our facilities if they are interested in applying to our programs. If you are interested in taking a tour please contact Holly Medlin at (919) 843-4352 or holly_medlin@med.unc.edu. back to top