College of DuPage

The Medical Assisting Program at the College of DuPage offers comprehensive training for individuals pursuing a career in healthcare as medical assistants. This program combines both administrative and clinical training, preparing students to work in settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private medical offices.

Program Options

The Medical Assisting Program at the College of DuPage is designed for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field with a combination of both administrative and clinical skills, providing a well-rounded education to meet the demands of the profession.

  • Certificate: Can be completed in one year.
  • Associate in Applied Science Degree: Typically takes two years to complete.

Both options are designed to provide students with hands-on experience through a clinical practicum, where they apply classroom skills in real-world settings.

Program Costs

The cost varies based on residency status (in-district, out-of-district, or out-of-state). Financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans are available to help students manage expenses.

Estimated expenses for academic year2023-2024
In-district Tuition and fees$4,320
In-state Tuition and fees$10,410
Out-of-state Tuition and fees$12,510
Books and supplies$1,410
Off Campus Food and Housing$12,960
Off Campus Other expenses$5,792
Off Campus with Family Other expenses$5,792
Total Expenses In-district Off Campus$24,482
Total Expenses In-district Off Campus with Family$11,522
Total Expenses In-state Off Campus$30,572
Total Expenses In-state Off Campus with Family$17,612
Total Expenses Out-of-state Off Campus$32,672
Total Expenses Out-of-state Off Campus with Family$19,712

Additional Costs: Apart from tuition, students may need to pay for textbooks, uniforms, medical supplies, and certification exam fees.

Admission Requirements

To enroll, students must meet the following:

  • Submit a completed Medical Assistant Registration Packet.
  • Undergo a criminal background check.
  • Provide proof of immunization and complete a drug screening.
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Complete the required prerequisite courses.

Program Content

The coursework covers both clinical and administrative skills, including:

  • Medical office procedures such as billing, coding, and scheduling.
  • Clinical skills like taking vital signs, administering injections, and performing electrocardiograms (EKGs).
  • Laboratory techniques, phlebotomy, and patient care.

Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam, enhancing their employability.

Duration

  • The certificate program can be completed in 12 months.
  • The associate degree program typically takes two years.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue careers in a variety of healthcare settings, including:

  • Physicians’ offices
  • Hospitals
  • Outpatient care centers
  • Specialty medical clinics

Medical assistants are in high demand, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts continued job growth in this field, making this program a great stepping stone to a stable career in healthcare.

How to Enroll

To begin the enrollment process:

  1. Complete the Medical Assistant Registration Packet, available on the College of DuPage website.
  2. Attend an advising session.
  3. Submit official transcripts and meet with a program advisor to plan coursework.
  4. Fulfill any prerequisite requirements.

Students should apply early to ensure space in the program, as enrollment may be limited.

For more information, visit the College of DuPage Medical Assistant Program page.