BBCC Simulation Technology program adds online degree option

MOSES LAKE — Big Bend Community College Simulation Technology program offerings are now available completely online, meaning students can obtain a Medical Simulation Associate Degree without having to step foot on campus. The program’s Medical Simulation Operators and Simulation Educator certificates are also available online.

Students will be able to complete the required classes from home, and fulfill the program’s internship and practicum components at sites local to them.

“Having a fully online program benefits long distance learners. They don’t need to come to BBCC at all to complete the AAS, or certificates,” said BBCC Simulation Technology Coordinator Dana Borschowa. “Essentially this program can now be offered nationwide and worldwide for those that want to pursue a degree or certificate in simulation.”

The online option is also beneficial to students who live in the BBCC service district, but who are unable to make it to campus for face-to-face classes.

Big Bend was one of the first to offer a Medical Simulation degree in Washington State. The program prepares students for entry-level employment in simulation centers and laboratories, where they’ll run realistic simulation scenarios for healthcare providers, first responders and even military personnel.

The program earned provisional accreditation status from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH), the largest healthcare simulation accrediting body in the world, last summer. The program was commended for having state of the art labs and simulators, an innovative curriculum and staff and instructors who were highly-qualified industry experts.

Registration for Spring Quarter is currently open. Classes begin March 30.