Blackhawk Technical College
The Medical Assistant Program at Blackhawk Technical College is designed to prepare students for diverse roles in healthcare, including both clinical and administrative duties in settings like doctor’s offices, clinics, and outpatient care facilities.
Program Overview
Medical assistants are essential in managing the day-to-day operations of a medical office, from handling front-desk tasks such as scheduling and managing patient records, to assisting with clinical procedures like taking vital signs, performing lab tests, and helping physicians during exams and surgeries. Students in this program develop the skills needed to perform both business and medical tasks, making them versatile in the healthcare environment.
Program Content and Structure
The Medical Assistant program is a technical diploma that takes around one year to complete. The curriculum is split into two semesters and includes:
- Semester 1:
- Medical Terminology
- Administrative Procedures
- Clinical and Lab Procedures 1
- Medical Insurance & Finance
- Semester 2:
- Clinical and Lab Procedures 2
- Pharmacology
- Medical Law, Ethics, and Professionalism
- A five-week full-time practicum for hands-on experience.
Courses can be taken in-person, online, or in a hybrid format, allowing flexibility for students to fit the program into their schedules.
Tuition and Fees
The total estimated cost for tuition:
| Category | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| Tuition and fees (In-state) | $4,170 |
| Tuition and fees (Out-of-state) | $5,927 |
| Books and supplies | $2,062 |
| Food and Housing (Off Campus) | $9,614 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus) | $4,337 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $4,337 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus) | $20,183 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus with Family) | $10,569 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus) | $21,940 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus with Family) | $12,326 |
Financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans are available for eligible students to help manage costs.
Admission Requirements
To enroll in the program, students must meet several prerequisites:
- Minimum scores on standardized tests (e.g., COMPASS, ACT) in English, reading, and math.
- A caregiver background check is required before registering for specific courses, and some clinical sites may also mandate drug testing. CPR certification is required before beginning the practicum.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Medical Assistant program can find jobs in various roles, such as:
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Laboratory Assistant
- Medical Administrative Specialist
- Medical Clerk or Medical Records Transcriptionist
The average starting wage for medical assistants in this region is approximately $43,800 per year, with strong demand for qualified professionals.
How to Enroll
Students interested in the program can apply online via the Blackhawk Technical College website. It is recommended to speak with an academic advisor to discuss course options, transfer credits, and financial aid opportunities.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), ensuring high standards in medical assistant education.
For more information or to start the application process, you can visit Blackhawk Technical College’s website.