Medical Assistant 900 Clock Hours
32 Weeks
Method of Delivery: Hybrid
Theory hours may be completed online or on campus or in hybrid format. Labs and Externships must be completed on campus or at an approved externship facility.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVE:
This program is structured for students to obtain entry-level employment in a variety of healthcare settings by providing a balanced foundation of administrative, clinical, and interpersonal skills. The program emphasizes competency in patient care procedures, medical office operations, and professional communication, ensuring graduates are capable of supporting physicians and other healthcare providers in delivering safe, efficient, and compassionate care. Students develop the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform routine medical tasks, manage healthcare documentation, and uphold ethical and regulatory standards. The overarching objective is to equip graduates with the skills, confidence, and professionalism required to contribute effectively to the healthcare team and to pursue lifelong learning in the medical field.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
The Medical Assistant program is designed to train students in all of the relevant aspects of medical office management including reception, booking appointments, records management, informatics, insurance billing, preparing patients for physical examinations, and minor surgeries, performing specialized medical tests including urinalysis, and collecting biological specimens, phlebotomy, EKG, and processing and recording pharmacological data. Graduates of this program will be prepared to work at the entry level in medical offices, clinics and various medical practices.
PROGRAM OUTLINE
PROGRAM BREAKDOWN BY COURSE | |||||
Course Number | Course Title | Theory Hours (Online/Hybrid/On Ground) | Lab Hours (On Ground) | Externship Hours | Total Hours |
MAP 101 | Anatomy and Physiology | 75 | 0 | 0 | 75 |
MAP 102 | Medical Terminology | 45 | 0 | 0 | 45 |
MAP 103 | Laws and Ethics in Medical Assistant/Domestic Violence | 15 | 0 | 0 | 15 |
MAP 104 | Infection Control, OSHA, HIV/AIDS | 60 | 0 | 0 | 60 |
MAP 105 | Nutrition | 30 | 0 | 0 | 30 |
MAP 106 | Phlebotomy | 30 | 50 | 0 | 80 |
MAP 107 | Electrocardiography | 15 | 30 | 0 | 45 |
MAP 108 | Pharmacology | 45 | 0 | 0 | 45 |
MAP 109 | Physical Examination and Semiology | 30 | 30 | 0 | 60 |
MAP 110 | Assisting in Medical Specialties I | 70 | 0 | 0 | 70 |
MAP 111 | Assisting in Medical Specialties II | 30 | 40 | 0 | 70 |
MAP 112 | Basic Radiology | 45 | 0 | 0 | 45 |
MAP 113 | Medical Office Work | 45 | 0 | 0 | 45 |
MAP 114 | Emergency Situations | 0 | 50 | 0 | 50 |
MAP 115 | Career Preparation for MA | 15 | 0 | 0 | 15 |
MAP 116 | Externship | 0 | 0 | 150 | 150 |
| Totals: | 550 | 200 | 150 | 900 |
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
MAP 101 Anatomy and Physiology
75 Theory Hours/0 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/75 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
This course will focus on the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis. Necessary life functions and survival needs will be examined, followed by an orientation of the language of anatomy. Thorough analyses of intracellular function, tissue types, the integumentary system, skeletal tissue and the human skeleton, joints, muscle tissue and the muscular system, the fundamentals of nervous tissue, the nervous system, and the endocrine system will follow. Topics include the study of blood, cardiovascular system including lymphatic system, immune system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, and male and female reproductive systems.
45 Theory Hours/0 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/45 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
The Medical Terminology course is designed to help students learn common medical terms essential for safe patient care. It is presented in logical order, beginning with each body system anatomy and physiology, and progressing through pathology, diagnostic procedures, therapeutic interventions, and pharmacology. Concepts, terms, and abbreviations are also presented to the students.
MAP 103 Laws and Ethics in Medical Assistant / Domestic Violence
15 Theory Hours/0 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/15 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
This course is oriented towards the ethical and legal factors that affect medical assistants. The types of torts to which patients are subjected, including abuse, and the scope of practice of MA. There is a unit focused on medical errors, and the last one is focused on domestic violence.
MAP 104 Infection Control, OSHA, HIV/AIDS
60 Theory Hours/0 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/60 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
In this course the student will learn what the main pathogenic microorganisms are, the diseases they produce, the meaning of asepsis and the control of diseases and infections, what necessary precautions are taken in the health field and how to prevent the spread of communicable diseases knowing the Norms and Transmission. Students will also learn OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogen Plan and study HIV/AIDS, COVID- 19, and Hepatitis B.
MAP 105 Nutrition
30 Theory Hours/0 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/30 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
This course is designed for the student to learn the concepts of basic nutrition and metabolism. Topics on the types of nutrients and their sources are addressed, as well as the food pyramid and its evolution. The student will also know the different special diets and will practice the procedures related to the patient’s nutrition. They will receive training to assist in feeding the elderly and disabled, they will learn the importance of good hydration and how to stimulate the intake of fluids to those who receive their care. Prerequisite : None
MAP 106 Phlebotomy
30 Theory Hours/50 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/80 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
During this course the student will learn to perform venipuncture and capillary puncture. Other topics that are necessary for a correct and safe phlebotomy have been included in the design. These are: Anatomy and Physiology of the Cardiovascular System, management of the medical order and of the samples, the phlebotomist’s equipment, the most frequent laboratory tests and how to treat difficult patients.
MAP 107 Electrocardiography
15 Theory Hours/30 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/45 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
This course introduces medical assistant students to the principles and procedures of electrocardiography (ECG/EKG) in outpatient and ambulatory care settings. Delivered online, the theory component covers cardiac anatomy and physiology, electrical conduction pathways, lead placement, waveform interpretation, and common cardiac arrhythmias. Students learn to identify normal and abnormal ECG patterns and understand their clinical significance
MAP 108 Pharmacology
45 Theory Hours/0 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/45 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
In this course, students will learn the general concepts of Pharmacology, the ways in which medications are administered, and the measures to be taken to avoid errors. They will learn the vocabulary and common abbreviations in medical prescriptions to understand the indications.
MAP 109 Physical Examination & Semiology
30 Theory Hours/30 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/60 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
The Physical Examination & Semiology course equips students with the essential skills required to conduct comprehensive physical examinations and effectively communicate clinical findings. Students will learn to perform patient interviews, take medical histories, and accurately document information, with an emphasis on recognizing signs of anxiety, depression, and various forms of abuse. The course covers the assessment of vital signs, including terminology, abbreviations, and the use of instruments to measure body metrics. Students will assist in general physical exams, learning to prepare patients, ensure safety, and accommodate diverse patient needs, including cultural differences and disabilities. The curriculum includes positioning and draping techniques, examination methods, and visual and hearing screening procedures. Special attention is given to patient education, particularly for the elderly, and strategies for supporting patients in following up on medical recommendations. Through practical exercises and real-world scenarios, students will develop the skills necessary to enhance patient care in clinical settings.
MAP 110 Assisting in Medical Specialties I
70 Theory Hours/0 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/70 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
The Assisting in Medical Specialties I course is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to assist healthcare providers in a wide range of medical specialties. The course covers foundational concepts and practical techniques for assisting with examinations and procedures in internal medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics/gynecology, as well as highly specialized fields such as
allergy, cardiology, dermatology, and more. Students will learn about common diseases, diagnostic tests, and treatments associated with each specialty, focusing on the medical assistant’s role in patient preparation, procedure assistance, and postoperative care. Through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on laboratory practice, students will develop the competencies needed to support patient care in diverse clinical settings effectively.
MAP 111 Assisting in Medical Specialties II
30 Theory Hours/40 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/70 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
The Assisting in Medical Specialties II course provides students with advanced skills and knowledge needed to support healthcare providers in radiology and physical therapy settings. The course covers the use of x- rays for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, emphasizing the medical assistant’s role in preparing patients, ensuring safety, and maintaining radiographic records. Students will also explore various physical therapy techniques, including cold and heat therapies, hydrotherapy, and ambulation aids. Through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on laboratory practice, students will learn to assist in assessing joint mobility, muscle strength, and patient posture, as well as teaching patients how to use mobility aids like canes, walkers, and wheelchairs. This comprehensive course prepares students to effectively contribute to patient care in diverse clinical environments.
MAP 112 Basic Radiology
45 Theory Hours/0 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/45 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
This foundational course introduces students to the principles and practices of diagnostic radiology within the scope of medical assisting. Emphasis is placed on understanding radiographic terminology, imaging modalities, radiation safety, and the role of radiology in patient care. Students will explore anatomical positioning, basic film critique, and the legal and ethical considerations surrounding radiographic procedures. While this course does not include hands-on training, it prepares students to communicate effectively with patients and healthcare professionals regarding radiologic services and supports future clinical application.
MAP 113 Medical Office Work
45 Theory Hours/0 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/45 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
MAP 113 Medical Office Procedures is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to effectively manage administrative tasks in a medical office setting. The course covers a wide range of topics, including the use and maintenance of office equipment, computer applications, and effective correspondence management. Students will learn to handle patient records and office supplies while ensuring confidentiality and efficiency. The course also emphasizes patient interaction, teaching students professional telephone techniques, appointment scheduling, and patient
reception. Additionally, students will gain a solid understanding of financial responsibilities, including health insurance billing, medical coding, patient billing, and financial account management. Through practical exercises and real-world scenarios.
MAP 114 Emergency Situations
0 Theory Hours/50 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/ 50 Clock Hours
(Lab hours done on campus)
This course provides foundational knowledge and hands-on skill development for responding to medical emergencies in ambulatory care and outpatient settings. Students will learn to recognize, assess, and manage a range of urgent conditions including respiratory distress, cardiac events, diabetic emergencies, seizures, allergic reactions, and trauma-related injuries. Emphasis is placed on the medical assistant’s role in emergency preparedness, patient stabilization, and coordination with emergency medical services
MAP 115 Career Preparation for MA
15 Theory Hours/0 Lab Hours/0 Externship Hours/ 15 Clock Hours
(Theory hours may be done online)
This course is designed to prepare students for the job search and career development. Students will learn about the various human resource management procedures involved in hospital employment, and
other healthcare settings. Students will develop their resumes, professional image, job search skills and practice interviewing techniques. Students will develop a strategic plan for seeking out their first jobs as Medical Assistant.
MAP 116 Externship
0 Theory Hours/0 Lab Hours/150 Externship Hours/ 150 Clock Hours
(Externship hours are done on site)
This supervised externship provides medical assistant students with real-world experience in a clinical setting. Students apply classroom and laboratory instruction to practical patient care activities, administrative procedures, and clinical workflows.