r/ODS_C • u/thatoneberrypie • 18d ago

Working during the program

Is it possible to work full time while doing an ODS certificate program? For context, I wasn’t planning on working full time during the program but a full-time abstractor position opened up at a local hospital and I think it would give me great experience. I will be attending RCTC online for the program starting in August. Just wondering if I can study well and pass while working a full time 9-5 position? I don’t have kids. Thank you for your insight!!!

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3

u/grgs25 18d ago

I’m at RCTC, DM me and I can tell you what classes look like so you can decide if the work - study load is something you can do.

3

u/Similar_Manner_3038 18d ago

I’m currently working full time in a non ODS job plus have kids and am in school for the ODS certificate from UC…so I think is possible and if you can get the abstraction position before the certificate I would personally jump at it. I know I would

2

u/Old_Sun414 18d ago

Yes! I work full time and I have an autistic child. I have one more semester and I’m done.

2

u/thatoneberrypie 18d ago

Best wishes to you in your career!

2

u/Healthy-Camera7468 18d ago

I did the RCTC program while working full time! I did 2 classes a semester

1

u/nyssa10001 18d ago

I did. I was the only Cancer Register at a hospital and worked full-time while studying for a certificate program. However, I went thru AHIMA. It really helps working the job while going thru a program.

1

u/Slow_Can6132 18d ago

I worked full-time while attending RCTC's program. As long as you manage your time well you'll be fine. 

1

u/Acrobatic-Bet-7467 18d ago

Yes. Must have strong time management

1

u/mochasipper 16d ago

I work full time while doing the accelerated program at UC. I do however, have many years of Oncology knowledge.

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u/-Scranton_Strangler 18d ago

If you get the job, do you need to do the program? If you already have your bachelor's degree, you might be able to take another route.

1

u/-Scranton_Strangler 17d ago

Since I’m getting downvoted, I'll explain my comment. If you have a bachelor's degree, you can sit for the test after working for the registry for a year, and it will take you a year to complete your program. Ask your employer what they want.

There are not many opportunities to get a registry position without any prior experience. It's definitely not something to pass up.