USC’s funded Allied Health Programs offers career-ready certificates and hands-on training in high-demand fields, including Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Dental Assistant, and Medical Assistant programs. Through our concurrent enrollment option, high school students can jump-start their healthcare careers by enrolling in college-level courses while completing their high school education.

This unique opportunity allows students to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously, providing a fast-track to certification and a seamless transition into the workforce. With real-world clinical experience, we prepare students for success in healthcare, meeting the needs of our community and beyond.

Program Snapshots

Eligibility Requirements For Dental &
Medical Assistant & Allied Health Programs

• High School Junior or Senior.
• Overall – 3.0 GPA.
• Recommendation from:  High School Career Counselor, Administrator or Teacher.
• Be a Student at:  A TRIO-Affiliated School  or USC Family of Schools.

Program Background: The Allied-Health Programs began at USC in 2015 as a pilot program for high school students. It is a pipeline entry-level training program in healthcare .  The program expands the high school experience to include a 15-16 week training certificate program in Dental Assisting, Medical Assisting and Certified Nursing Assistant & Home Health Aide.

It is a collaborative partnership with West Los Angeles College Health-Sciences to provide Community College and State of California Certification. Internships are from 6-8 weeks in a medical facility, urgent care, dental clinic or hospital. It is a collaborative partnership with West Los Angeles College Health-Sciences to provide Community College and State of California Certification. Internships are from 6-8 weeks in a medical facility, urgent care, dental clinic or hospital. 

Mission Statement: To create a culture of continuous healthcare training, compassions and excellent care to our communities and the world.

Vision Statement: Empowering high school students from underserved communities  to become healthcare professionals through training, internships and workforce placement.

Values Statement: Inspiring future healthcare workers to cultivate authentic relationships with trust, dignity, respect and empathy.

For more information, contact Rudy Portillo, Rudyport@usc.edu.