Accounting
Do you have a nose for numbers? Like solving problems? Digging into data? If yes, then a career in Accounting might be just what you’re looking for.
It Adds Up
As an Accounting major, you’ll learn how to use various accounting and financial software… hone problem-solving skills… communicate in a professional manner… develop a deep understanding of tax and other financial laws and regulations… and much more.
Most companies, government agencies and nonprofit groups require the use of personnel to operate successfully. Our program prepares you to be workforce-ready once you graduate.
Click here to view Central Penn College’s Admissions Requirements
Courses
Accounting I & II
Intermediate Accounting I & II
Managerial Accounting
Data Management Applications
Income Tax
Nonprofit Accounting
Cost Accounting
Finance I
Microeconomics
Associate Degree Internship
Business Law
Job Pursuit Seminar
Careers in this field include
- Accounts Receivable Clerk
- Accounts Payable Clerk
- Budget Analyst
- Credit Analyst
- Financial Examiner
- Tax Preparer
People who thrive in this field
- Problem-solver
- Organized
- Good Communicator
- Trustworthy
- Strong customer service skills
“This degree program provides students a strong foundation in Accounting that leads to employment in this field.”
– Dr. Tondelaya George, Chair of the Business Department
Communications
Got something to say and like saying it well? Do you like telling stories? Are you inspired by quality journalism… a powerful news story… a well-written feature? Then a Communications career might be right for you.
In today’s fast-paced digital world, Communications has taken on even greater importance. Large corporations, small businesses, nonprofit organizations and government agencies all have communications teams to provide messaging to their internal and external audiences through various channels––web, social, email, print, broadcast, events and more.
Your Potential, Empowered
In our Communications program, you’ll build on your current strengths… gain new skills and knowledge… and begin to fully develop your unique voice.
A degree in Communications positions you for a career in public relations, journalism, social media, marketing and more.
Click here to view Central Penn College’s Admissions Requirements.
Courses
Advertising
Survey of Mass Communications
Digital Photography
Digital Image Editing
Media Writing
Public Relations
Journalism I
Writing for Public Relations
Desktop Publishing I
Opinion Writing
Feature Writing
Communications Law
Associate Degree Internship
Job Pursuit Seminar
Careers in this field include
- Public Relations
- Radio and TV
- Writer
- Communications Assist.
- Events Planner
- Marketing Rep.
People who thrive in this field
- Outgoing
- Curious
- Interested in people
- Empathetic
- Conscientious
- Explorer
“A Communications degree can open doors to careers in many types of industries.”
– Jared Rife, Director of General Education and Humanities.
Computer Information Systems
Do you love playing video games? Have you ever built a website? Are you fascinated by all things tech-related? Then a degree in Computer Information Systems might be right for you.
In today’s digital world, those who have an IT degree are in high demand from employers. Our Computer Information Systems (CIS) program will give you the skills you need to enter this growing field.
As a CIS major, you’ll become experienced using SQL fundamentals, JAVA language and C++ programming… examining and testing firewalls… installing and configuring software… coding with HTML and XML… and much more. Your career in Information Technology awaits. Get started today!
Click here to view Central Penn College’s Admissions Requirements.
Concentrations in this Major
APPLICATIONS DEVELOPMENT
Students will learn how to collaborate with management and lead project teams in developing applications to solve business problems. In addition to gaining hands-on technical skills, students will gain a deep understanding of the standards and principles of applications development and use that specialized knowledge to address new and challenging situations.
NETWORKING AND SECURITY
Students will learn how to lead project development teams in the design, installation and maintenance of complex networks. As part of Central Penn’s Networking and Security concentration, students will be trained on how to discover and disable malicious hacker and virus attacks.
Courses
Structured Programming
Networking I & II
Data Modeling Foundations
Object-Oriented Programming I & II
SQL Fundamentals
Systems Analysis and Design
Internet Programming I
Firewalls and Intrusion Detection
Virtualization
Associate Degree Internship
Job Pursuit Seminar
Careers in this field include
- Computer Systems Manager
- Information Systems Manager
- Computer Programmer
- Computer Security Specialist
- Software Developer
- Network Systems Analyst
- Data Communications Analyst
- Telecommunications Specialist
- Computer Specialist
People who thrive in this field
- Problem-solver
- Versatile
- Focused
- See the big picture
- Analytical
“I was hired into a programming position within a few weeks of graduating––a testament to the reputation of a Central Penn education!”
– Diane Weller, ‘83, Computer Information Systems
Criminal Justice
Are you passionate about serving others? Are you community-minded? Do you want to help make the world a better and safer place? Then a career in Criminal Justice might be right for you.
Criminal Justice majors work for numerous public and private organizations at the local, state and national levels. Opportunities are expected to increase due to many employees, who currently work in this profession, reaching retirement age.
Criminal Justice Putting Community First
You’ll learn how to conduct investigations… apply critical thinking techniques to find solutions… act professionally and ethically in a variety of situations… and much more. Whether your career goal is a job with a public agency or private company, you’ll be workforce-ready when you enter this in-demand, professional field.
You may also be interested in Homeland Security Management
Do you want to have a meaningful career? Use your knowledge and skills to make an impact on the lives of your fellow citizens? Combine passion and purpose in the service of others? Then our program in Homeland Security Management might just be what you’re looking for.
Learn more!Click here to view Central Penn College’s Admissions Requirements.
Courses
Principles of Management
Criminal Justice
Introduction to Corrections
Juvenile Justice: Alternatives to Incarceration
Essential Criminal Justice Research
Fundamentals of Intelligence Analysis
Criminal Procedure
Criminal Law
Psychology of the Criminal
Police Operations
Criminal Investigation
Evidence
Job Pursuit Seminar
Associate Degree Internsh
Careers in this field include
- Police Officer
- Caseworker
- Private Investigator
- Loss Prevention Specialist
People who thrive in this field
- Service-minded
- Value integrity
- Good communicator
- Community-focused
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Multi-tasker
“Central Penn has been the best choice I ever made!”
Entrepreneurship & Small Business
Run your business… like a business! Get the knowledge and skills you need to convert your idea into a business. Or, if you already own your own company, you’ll learn the ins–and–outs of becoming a successful entrepreneur.
Small businesses are the engine of the U.S. economy. They drive innovation… they launch breakthrough products and services… they find new ways to improve the customer experience Entrepreneurship & Small Business associate degree.
Blaze Your Own Path
If you’re thinking about starting your own company… or if you’re already running your own business and want to do it better, our Entrepreneurship & Small Business program is for you.
You’ll learn how to create a business plan… analyze trends… conduct research… hone interpersonal skills… implement marketing strategies… and much more.
Central Penn College has been creating entrepreneurs since 1881
While learning about the fundamentals of innovation and initiative, you will gain real-world experience creating and shaping the future of a company. Our experienced faculty will guide you and provide valuable insight into owning and running a small business.
Click here to view Central Penn College’s Admissions Requirements
Courses
Accounting I & II
Managerial Accounting
Income Tax
Introduction to Business
Spreadsheet Applications
Finance I
Microeconomics
Principles of Management
Principles of Marketing
Human Resources
Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
Associate Degree Internship
Job Pursuit Seminar
Careers in this field include
- Business owner
- Consultant
- Salesperson
- Fundraiser
- Recruiter
- Trainer
- Account Manager
- Business Developer
People who thrive in this field
- Self-motivated
- Passionate
- Flexible
- Risk-taker
- Goal-oriented
- Determined
- Enthusiastic
“Central Penn opened up my mind to other possibilities. Getting involved in the college groups, clubs and opening up my eyes to giving back to the community. The college was extremely supportive and will always be a part of my success story.”
– Kendra Elliott ’14, Entrepreneurship & Small Business
Marketing
Do you like motivating people to take action? Planning events? Promoting a cause… a band… a TV show? Then a degree in Marketing might just be what you’re looking for!
Marketing drives modern business. From major corporations and government organizations to small businesses and boutique ad agencies, they all rely on marketing to get their message out to current and prospective customers.
Jumpstart Your Future
As a Marketing major, you’ll learn how to plan and launch a marketing campaign… implement marketing strategies… write marketing reports and ad copy… communicate with internal and external stakeholders… and much more.
Click here to view Central Penn College’s Admissions Requirements
Courses
Introduction to Business
Fundamentals of Selling
Microeconomics
Principles of Management
Principles of Marketing
Consumer Behavior
Human Resources
Advertising
Strategic Planning and Marketing Communications
Nonprofit Organizations
Marketing Research
Associate Degree Internship
Job Pursuit Seminar
Careers in this field include
- Marketing Coordinator
- Event Coordinator
- Business Operations Specialist
- Market Research Analysts
- Public Relations Specialist
- Marketing Communications Specialist
- Sales Representative
- Business Operations Specialist
People who thrive in this field
- Persuasive
- Innovative
- Self-starter
- Passionate
- People Person
- Enjoys challenges
- Problem-Solver
- Team Player
“Central Penn’s Marketing program will give you the skills and knowledge to join the field of marketing or advertising once you graduate.”
– Interim Dean of Professional Studies Ben Lipschutz
Medical Assisting
Do you have what it takes to assist doctors in delivering compassionate, effective medical care? Then Central Penn College’s Medical Assisting program may be the perfect fit for you! Medical Assisting students will gain practical, real-world experience in our simulated medical office.
How would you like to learn to draw blood, prepare patients for exams, administer medications and injections or even assist with minor surgery? With our Medical Assisting degree, you can.
At Central Penn, you’ll learn from experts in the field about everything from bedside manners to patient care. This degree program will help you gain the skills necessary to work in a variety of healthcare facilities and assist doctors.
Medical Assisting Graduate Satisfaction, Employer Satisfaction & Job Placement
Graduation Satisfaction
2020 Graduation Satisfaction: 100%
2019 Graduation Satisfaction: 100%
2018 Graduation Satisfaction: 100%
2017 Graduation Satisfaction: 100%
2016 Graduation Satisfaction: 100%
5-year Graduation Satisfaction: 100%
Employer Satisfaction
2020 Employer Satisfaction: 100%
2019 Employer Satisfaction: 100%
2018 Employer Satisfaction: 100%
2017 Employer Satisfaction: 100%
2016 Employer Satisfaction: 100%
5-year Employer Satisfaction: 100%
Information obtained from MAERB annual report.
The medical assisting program at Central Penn College has a Job Placement rate of 100% for the graduate cohort in 2020.
Click here to view the essential functions and technical standards for MA students.
Disclaimer: Central Penn College cannot guarantee clinical placements for students who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Click here to view Central Penn College’s Admissions Requirements
Courses
Medical Terminology and Pharmacology
Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology I & II
Medical Insurance
Allied Health Procedures
Medical Administrative Procedures
Clinical Procedures
Clinical Techniques
Disease and Diagnostic Methods
Medical Assisting Internship
Medical Laboratory
Medical Seminar
Job Pursuit Seminar
Careers in this field include
- Medical Assistant
- Phlebotomist
People who thrive in this field
- Compassionate
- Good interpersonal skills
- Flexible
- Multi-tasker
- Strong Work Ethic
- Organized
- Outgoing
- Nonjudgmental
“Our MA program is very comprehensive and fully prepares students to enter the profession. Our MA students learn from experts in the field about everything from proper communication skills to quality patient care.”
– Professor Nikki Marhefka, Director of the Medical Assisting program
Occupational Therapy Assistant
If you want a career where you make a difference, then consider becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA). You’ll work with patients and help them overcome challenges. You’ll teach them techniques for maintaining independent living and a high quality of life. As an OTA, you have the power to change lives!
As an Occupational Therapy Assistant major, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the functioning of the human body, including sensorimotor, psychosocial and cognitive components… demonstrate clinical reasoning skills… learn how to administer treatments and screenings using appropriate procedures under the direction of an occupational therapist… and much more.
Improving Patient Quality of Life
Our OTA program has one purpose and one purpose only––to prepare you to work as an occupational therapy assistant. And it’s the only one in the central Pennsylvania area! What are you waiting for? Apply today!
Student Outcome Information
Graduation Rates
Cost of Attending the OTA Program
Click here to view our exam information from NBCOT.
Disclaimer: Central Penn College cannot guarantee clinical placements for students who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (AAS) ACCREDITATION
Occupational Therapy Assistant program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929., (301.652.6611), WWW.ACOTEONLINE.ORG.
Click here to view Central Penn College’s Admissions Requirements
GRADUATES OF THE PROGRAM WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO SIT FOR THE NATIONAL CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION FOR THE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT, ADMINISTERED BY THE NATIONAL BOARD FOR CERTIFICATION IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (NBCOT®). AFTER SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF THIS EXAM, THE GRADUATE WILL BE A CERTIFIED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (COTA). IN ADDITION, ALL STATES REQUIRE LICENSURE TO PRACTICE; HOWEVER, STATE LICENSES ARE USUALLY BASED ON THE RESULTS OF THE NBCOT CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION. A FELONY CONVICTION MAY AFFECT A GRADUATE’S ABILITY TO SIT FOR THE NBCOT CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION OR ATTAIN STATE LICENSURE.
Courses
Anatomy and Physiology I & II
Anatomy and Physiology I & II Lab
Fundamentals of Occupational Therapy
Therapeutic Techniques I & II
Developmental Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy in Mental Health
Occupational Therapy in Physical Rehabilitation
Developing Professional Behaviors in Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics
Pathology and Function
Level II Fieldwork Experience
Job Pursuit Seminar
Careers in this field include
- Occupational Therapy Assistant
People who thrive in this field
- Compassionate
- Focused
- Good Communicator
- Strong interpersonal skills
- People Person
- Difference-maker
- Detail-oriented
- Caring and empathetic
“I loved the fast-paced program and I could immediately tell their OTA department was incredible. Looking back, I really don’t see how any other college could have offered me the experience that Central Penn did.”
– Lindsey Burgard, ’19, Occupational Therapy Assistant
Paralegal
The legal profession continues to grow. As a paralegal, you could work for a large private law firm; a public agency, such as the Department of the Attorney General; or a small office with one or two lawyers. Good paralegals are in high demand.
Our Paralegal associate degree program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to be practicing paralegals in law firms, government agencies, corporations and the courts.
A Key Member of Any Legal Team
As a student in our Paralegal program, you’ll learn to use legal terminology, principles and procedures… conduct legal research… draft briefs, memoranda and pleadings using proper legal formatting… prepare a case for trial… carry out tasks under the supervision of a lawyer… and much more.
Get the skills you need to pursue the career path you want!
ABA Approved
The Paralegal program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Non-attorneys may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law. The ABA approval requires that nine (9) credit hours of legal specialty courses be taken in the traditional (face-to-face) format.
Limitation on transfer of legal specialty credits: Effective Summer 2022, students transferring credits into the Legal Studies bachelor’s program may not transfer more than 12 credits of legal specialty courses. Legal specialty courses are:
- LGL100/LGS110 Foundations in Law
- LGL110/LGS130 Principles of Legal Research
- LGL210/LGS135 Legal Research and Writing I
- LGL211/LGS140 Civil Litigation I
- LGL270/LGS160 Wills and Estates
- LGL280/LGS190 Family Law
- LGL240/LGS200 Contracts
- LGL221/LGS230 Civil Litigation II
- LGL300/LGS260 Administrative Law
- LGL211/LGS280 Legal Research and Writing II
As required by the ABA, LGS135, LGS140, LGS230, and LGS280 may not be replaced with transfer credits unless the transferred courses were taken in a traditional classroom format.
A minor in legal studies is available to any student outside the paralegal associate and legal studies bachelor’s programs.
The minor in legal studies is not approved by the ABA and is not intended to prepare students to work as paralegals.
Click here to view Central Penn College’s Admissions Requirements
Courses
Foundations in Law
Principles of Legal Research
Legal Research and Writing I & II
Criminal Procedure
Contracts
Criminal Law
Civil Litigation I & II
Evidence
Administrative Law
Legal Seminar
Internship for Paralegals
Job Pursuit Seminar
Careers in this field include
- Paralegal
- Legal Assistant
- Law Clerk
- Title Examiner, Abstractor and Searcher
- Legal Support Worker
People who thrive in this field
- Highly organized
- Good communication skills
- Self-motivated
- Detail-oriented
- Methodical
- Critical Thinker
- Exhibits grace under pressure
- Persistent
- Empathetic
“Paralegals are the unsung heroes of the legal profession. They work behind-the-scenes, doing extremely valuable work that enable attorneys to successfully do their jobs.”
– Professor John DeLeo, Chair of Legal Studies
Physical Therapist Assistant
Do you like helping people? Want to be a difference-maker? Enjoy being active? Then a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant might be your calling.
As a Physical Therapist Assistant major, you’ll learn how to deliver physical therapy services as described in a plan of care; communicate effectively with those involved in patient care, in an appropriate and professional manner; demonstrate sound clinical judgment; perform appropriate therapeutic intervention; and much more.
Our PTA program has one purpose and one purpose only––to prepare you to work as a physical therapist assistant. The PTA feild is a growing field. In fact, according to the Department of Labor, PTA jobs are projected to grow by 30% through 2026.
Become a Physical Therapist Assistant in 18 months + an internship.
Note: Our PTA program only accepts a limited number of students each academic year. Interested students should apply as early as possible.
What makes Central Penn’s Physical Therapist Assistant program unique?
- Small class sizes with individualized attention
- Accepts students twice per year
- Accelerated terms so that you can earn your degree faster
- Caring, dedicated faculty who will help you succeed
- Daytime or Evening classes available
- Hands-on, real-world learning, including an internship
- High placement rate – More than 90% of our grads are employed in their chosen field or continuing their education within one year of graduation, according to our latest one-year graduate survey.
PTA Student Financial Fact Sheet
Physical Therapist Assistant Program Accreditation
The Physical Therapist Program at Central Penn College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. The program’s current status is probationary accreditation; for more information see http://www.capteonline.org/WhatWeDo/RecentActions/PublicDisclosureNotices/. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 717-728-2315 or email nicolepatterson@centralpenn.edu.
Physical Therapy Assistant Student Outcome Information
This information is provided in compliance with the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) Student Outcomes regulation.
- Program Name: Central Penn College Physical Therapy Assistant Program
- Degree Offered: Associate in Applied Science
- Current CAPTE Accreditation Status: Probationary Accreditation
- Date First Accredited: March 1988
- Most Recent Capte Visit: July 2020
- Most Recent Action Taken: November 2, 2021
- Action Taken: Probationary Accreditation
- Next Visit: March 2030
Graduation Rate
Summerdale 2020: 73.9%
Summerdale 2021: 74.8%
Summerdale 2 year average: 74.4%
Lancaster 2020: 96.7%
Lancaster 2021: 77.8%
Lancaster 2 year average: 89.8%
NPTAE Pass Rate
Summerdale 2020: 85.7%
Summerdale 2021: 81.5%
Summerdale 2 year average: 84.1%
Lancaster 2020: 96.4%
Lancaster 2021: 78.6%
Lancaster 2 year average: 90.5%
Employment Rate
Summerdale 2019: 90.6%
Summerdale 2020: 85%
Summerdale 2 year average: 88.1%
Lancaster 2019: 100%
Lancaster: 2020: 92%
Lancaster 2 year average: 96%
Disclaimer: Central Penn College cannot guarantee clinical placements for students who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Click here to view Central Penn College’s Admissions Requirements
Courses
Anatomy and Physiology I & II Lecture
Anatomy and Physiology I & II Laboratory
Therapeutic Exercise
Professional Behaviors for the Allied Health Professional
Fundamentals of Physical Therapy
PTA Procedures
Pathophysiology for PTA I & II
Modalities
Applied Kinesiology
Neurological Rehabilitation
PTA Clinical Practice
Internship for Physical Therapist Assistant
Job Pursuit Seminar
Careers in this field include
- Physical Therapist Assistant
People who thrive in this field
- Caring
- People Person
- Good Communicator
- Difference-maker
- See the big picture
- Encouraging
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Motivator
“It was affordable, had an accelerated program, and Central Penn was one of the only colleges to offer PTA as a major.”
– Russell Englebert ’18, Physical Therapist Associate