HLHSCI-249 - Medical Terminology - Veronica Ward

Introduction

Hello and Welcome! My name is Veronica Ward, and I am a practicing Physician Associate and Adjunct Professor for the College of the Canyons. I am also a mentor, clinical preceptor/proctor, and strong advocate for students pursuing higher education in healthcare and public health. I am very excited to instruct the Medical Terminology course this term! This course will be fun and informative and will strengthen your skills as you become a future health professional.

Course Description

This course presents a comprehensive study of medical terminology, emphasizing the meanings by dividing words into their component parts. Basic anatomy, physiology, and pathology are discussed. Correct spelling, pronunciation, and meaning of common medical terms related to individual body systems, clinical procedures, diagnostic tests, and pathological conditions are covered.

What to Expect in this Course

Due to the course being offered 100% online, students will need access to a computer and a reliable internet connection. At the start of class, all students must complete the Orientation Quiz and Pre-course competency assessment during the first day of class to avoid being dropped from the course. The estimated minimum weekly time commitment to be successful in this course is 20 hours. Students are expected to log into the course at least 3-4 times per week to view lectures, submit assignments, and participate in discussions via Canvas. In addition, students can expect weekly readings from the text, essay, and verbal report assignments. All Discussion Board assignments require the work to be written in APA style. This includes referencing credible resources and citing them correctly. This is in preparation for your Final Research Paper.

Types of Assessments

• Quizzes
• Written assignments
• Verbal Case Study Reports
• Final Exam
• Final Research Project

Textbook Information

Susan M. Turley. Medical Language: Immerse Yourself. Pearson. 2023. Edition: 6th. ISBN 13: 978-0138052997 

 Find Course Materials | College of the Canyons Official Bookstore

Due to the course's online nature, students will need access to a computer and a reliable internet connection.

Other Relevant Course Information

Communication is vital for this course! This course consists of a plethora of information, especially in an accelerated 8-week format. Students will need to stay on task and not fall behind. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to me. If you find yourself interested and wanting to add the class after the semester has begun, please email me directly so that I can provide the add authorization if there is still room in the course.

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 08/21/2026 Sub#: 2085 Sub ID: 219179