Expansion provides new career, education opportunities for rural communities

Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) has expanded its Nursing and Allied Health program offerings at the Natchitoches and Sabine Valley (Many) campuses. These new additions provide students in rural areas with greater access to high-demand careers in healthcare and administrative fields.

The BPCC Natchitoches campus has launched several new healthcare-related programs, including EKG/Telemetry, Emergency Medical Technician, Phlebotomy, and Medical Records and Billing Assistant. In addition, the campus will soon offer a Respiratory Therapy program, giving students even more pathways to pursue careers in the healthcare industry.

At BPCC’s Sabine Valley campus in Many, new programs include Medical Records and Billing Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician, and Medical Assistant. These programs are designed to meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals in the region, offering students practical skills and certification opportunities close to home.

Along with new programs, BPCC has updated classrooms and lab space to give students more hands-on training opportunities. EMS students at the Natchitoches campus are able to work on their skills in a full-size ambulance simulator.

Chancellor Dr. Rick Bateman, Jr., expressed excitement about BPCC's growth and the impact these programs will have on rural communities.

“The expansion of our programs in Natchitoches and Many reflects the College’s commitment to bringing quality education and training to rural communities. By offering these new healthcare and technical programs, we are opening doors to career opportunities that will strengthen the local workforce and improve access to essential services for the residents in these regions.”

To highlight these new opportunities, BPCC's Natchitoches Campus will host its annual Open House on Thursday, October 10, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. The event will be held at 6587 Highway 1 Bypass and is open to prospective students, parents, and community members. Attendees will have the chance to tour the campus, meet faculty and staff, learn about academic programs, student life, and much more.

The BPCC Natchitoches Campus offers a wide range of educational opportunities, including career and technical education programs, general education courses, high school dual enrollment, WorkReady U (adult basic education), and workforce development training. For more information about programs and opportunities at BPCC Natchitoches, visit www.bpcc.edu/Natchitoches or call (318) 951-4490.

BPCC’s Sabine Valley Campus is located in the heart of Toledo Bend Lake Country and offers programs that correlate with the rich history and diverse culture of the area’s economy as well as dual enrollment for high school students. Visit www.bpcc.edu/SabineValley or call (318) 508-5503 for more information.

Registration is currently open for Winter 2024, Spring 2025 and Summer 2025. Apply online 24/7 at www.bpcc.edu to get started with the admissions process.