Start a career in Medical Assisting
The Medical Assisting program prepares students for work in a medical office and offers courses toward certification. To be eligible for a certificate, you must submit an application during the open application period.
Click Here for the Medical Assisting Application The application period is March 15 - May 31 annually Prerequisite is English 101 with a grade of "C" or better
Are you detail-oriented and enjoy supporting a team of people who are serving the needs of patients? If you are interested in working in the medical field, the medical assisting program can give you the tools you need to succeed!
The medical assisting program will prepare students with both the front and back-office skills required for employment as a medical assistant in a doctor's office or medical facility. Students will be trained in maintaining medical records and interpreting medical terms used in medical records. Students will be able to prepare income statements, work with financial accounting processes and systems, and use standard medical office computer software. Students will also develop proficiency in maintaining and using aseptic techniques, administering specified medications under the direction of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or podiatrist performing various laboratory tests, and assisting the physician with minor surgery.
This program will help you to:
- develop communication skills necessary to effectively communicate with other health care team members, patients, and physicians
- demonstrate respect for the human dignity and the rights of all individuals with awareness of cultural differences
- utilize critical thinking and decision-making skills when providing clinical and administrative service in health settings
To view the program requirements and suggested course sequences for the degrees and/or certificates available for this program, please visit the course catalog.
Third-party Certification information
Graduates of Allan Hancock College's Medical Assisting program are eligible for certification by American Medical Technologists (with which we have a formal affiliation). Graduates of our program may also apply to take the California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants exam.
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Contact Information
Dean: Thomas Lamica
Department Chair: Megan McComas
Program Specialist: Tawnya Karstrom
Administrative Assistant: Elena Gaytan
LOCATION
Santa Maria Campus, W building, Room 11
Telephone extension: 3384
Fax number: 922-1403
