The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that medical assisting will be one of the fastest-growing occupations through 2014.* Employment growth will be derived from the increased number of health care facilities that are seeking medical assistants who can handle both administrative and clinical duties. A Medical Assistant Certificate from Kaplan College can provide you with the training necessary pursue a career as a medical assistant.
Hands-On Career Training
In addition to the specialized medical coursework, the program provides instruction in administrative and computer skills that complement your medical knowledge. As a versatile employee with multiple skill sets, you will be even more marketable to employers. Coursework may include topics such as:
- Medical terminology
- Anatomy and physiology
- Medical office management
- Medical (ICD-9-CM) coding
- Presentation and communications skills
Real-World Externship Experience
Prior to graduation, you will be required to complete an externship where you can apply the skills learned in the classroom to actual work situations and gain on-the-job experience in a real-world work environment. You must be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) prior to starting your externship. Contact an Admissions Representative for additional information.
Certification Preparation
In addition to medical assisting preparation, the curriculum is also intended to prepare you to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam sponsored by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).†
Upon successful completion of the program, you will be awarded a Medical Assistant Certificate and can pursue entry-level employment in group practices, clinics, labs, hospitals, private offices, and other health care facilities.
* Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-2007 Edition.
† However, the College cannot guarantee a student's eligibility either to take this exam or become certified. A student's eligibility may depend on his or her work experience, completion of high school (or its equivalent), not having a criminal record, meeting other licensure or certification requirements, or the program or College itself having appropriate accreditation or licensure. Externship sites may themselves require a criminal background check or medical examination.