Catalog Year:
2025 - 2026

The Psychiatric Technician Certificate of Achievement Program (PSYT) prepares students to utilize the nursing process in the provision of care and treatment to individuals with mental and/or intellectual impairment under the supervision of a physician, psychologist, and/or registered nurse. Psychiatric Technicians participate in rehabilitation and treatment programs, assist patients with activities of daily living, and administer medications and treatments. Upon completion of the program students are eligible to take the Psychiatric Technician state licensure exam leading to licensure as a California Psychiatric Technician. The Certificate of Achievement program is designed for students who desire specific training to meet an immediate occupational or personal goal, or for promotion or lateral transfer within their existing field of employment. To qualify for a Certificate of Achievement, a student must 1) complete all courses required for the Certificate with an overall grade point average of 2.0, 2) earn at least 12 units in residency at Cuesta, and 3) submit a Certificate Application to Admissions and Records. 

Career Opportunities

The Psychiatric Technician Certificate of Achievement Program offers career opportunities at Department of State Hospitals, Correctional Facilities, County Mental health, and long term nursing care facilities throughout the state of California.
Required Courses (55.5 credits)
Units: 55.5
PSYT 110
INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN
6.5
PSYT 207
NURSING SCIENCE
16.0
PSYT 208
CARE OF THE DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED
16.0
PSYT 209
PSYCHIATRIC NURSING
17.0
Total: 55.5

Program Outcomes

Outcome
Implement procedures based on critical thinking and learned knowledge regarding the care, treatment and rehabilitation of the mentally ill, emotionally disturbed or developmentally disabled person.
Assessment
a) 8 and 16 week student evaluations. b) BVNPT State Board practice exam with passing score of 77% or higher. c) Student Surveys d) BVNPT results for Students 1 yr ago Jan-Jan
Outcome
Demonstrate skills and ability to practice safely within the legal, ethical and privacy issues through accurate documentation.
Assessment
a) Faculty expertise –Evaluation and assessment of student in clinical setting including all documentation.
Outcome
Demonstrate the ability to guide the client toward an optimal therapeutic regime by implementing appropriate treatment plans, medications and delivery of safe patient care.
Assessment
a) Faculty Expertise – Evaluation of med card knowledge, administration of meds and medication calculations. b) Student evaluation forms (instructor eval of student) – students maintain >77%. c) Student surveys d) Advisory Committee input (minutes)