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From sleep apnea to narcolepsy to insomnia—there are 84 different classifications of sleep disorders, and more than 70 million Americans suffer from some aspect of sleeping disease. In fact, sleep disorders have become one of the fastest growing health concerns today, particularly with its connection to obesity, which is another significant health problem facing our nation. For these reasons, Genesee Community College is pleased to announce a new academic degree in Polysomnographic Technology, or the evaluation and diagnosis of sleep disorders. The Polysomnographic Technology Associates in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree is ready for enrollment, and is the only program of its type in New York State. Interested students of all ages are encouraged to apply to Genesee as soon as possible to secure their seat in the widely sought program. What kinds of jobs do Polysomnographic Technologists perform? Polysomnographic technologists work closely with physicians to diagnose sleep-related problems and provide support services to patients. Typically, they work at night in “sleep laboratories” where patients with sleep problems spend one or more nights under intensive clinical observation. Technologists monitor patients’ breathing, blood oxygen levels, brain waves, eye movements, muscle tone, and other clinical variables using a variety of highly specialized equipment to assist in diagnosis. Polysomnographic technologists also counsel patients in the use of respiratory and sleep devices that aid in sleep hygiene. What do Polysomnographic Technology students learn? Students can complete Genesee’s 66-credit Polysomnographic Technology program in four semesters with full-time enrollment. Courses include Anatomy and Physiology, Physiology of Sleep Medicine, Sleep Study Instrumentation, Sleep Disorders, Environmental Chemistry, General Psychology, as well as four courses in Polysomnography and general education courses. The academic program also includes two clinical practice courses providing the opportunity to apply newly learned skills in a local sleep clinic. Where are the jobs? New York State has more than 60 registered sleep clinics, and with Genesee Community College located between the major cities of Buffalo and Rochester, jobs in Polysomnography are growing steadily throughout the region. Upon completion of the Polysomnographic Technology program, graduates will be prepared to work in the wide array of sleep clinics and sleep laboratories. To find out more contact Marshann Thomas, Director of the Polysomnographic Program at [email protected] or call 585-343-0055 x6188. 7 CENTERS OF LEARNING: Albion | Arcade | Batavia | Dansville | Lima | Medina | Warsaw Genesee Community College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution www.genesee.edu Polysomnographic Technology A S S O C I AT E I N A P P L I E D S C I E N C E D E G R E E Evaluating Sleep Disorders
