College of Lake County
The College of Lake County (CLC) offers a comprehensive Medical Assisting Program designed to prepare students for an entry-level career in healthcare. The program provides two main pathways: a Certificate in Medical Assisting and an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Medical Assisting. Here’s a detailed look at the program:
The Medical Assisting program at CLC is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Students can choose to pursue a Certificate or an A.A.S. degree, both of which prepare them for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam. The certificate program takes approximately one year to complete full-time, while the A.A.S. degree typically takes an additional year.
Program Costs
Estimated cost:
| Detailed Expenses | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| In-district Tuition and fees | $4,494 |
| In-state Tuition and fees | $10,531 |
| Out-of-state Tuition and fees | $14,036 |
| Books and supplies | $1,260 |
| Off Campus Food and Housing | $13,750 |
| Off Campus Other expenses | $5,768 |
| Off Campus with Family Other expenses | $5,768 |
| Total Expenses Off Campus (In-district) | $25,272 |
| Total Expenses Off Campus with Family (In-district) | $11,522 |
| Total Expenses Off Campus (In-state) | $31,309 |
| Total Expenses Off Campus with Family (In-state) | $17,559 |
| Total Expenses Off Campus (Out-of-state) | $34,814 |
| Total Expenses Off Campus with Family (Out-of-state) | $21,064 |
- These include tuition, fees, and materials before any financial aid is applied.
Program Requirements
To enroll, students must:
- Attend a Medical Assisting Information Session.
- Submit transcripts and meet college readiness requirements.
- Be at least 18 years old, have a valid Social Security Number, and be eligible to work in the U.S.
- Complete prerequisites like Human Anatomy or Biology, and clear background checks and health screenings.
Curriculum Content
Students in the certificate program will complete coursework covering both clinical and administrative aspects of medical assisting. Some of the key courses include:
- Medical Terminology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medical Assisting I & II
- Medical Office Billing and Basics
- Phlebotomy Techniques
- Externship at a healthcare facility for practical experience.
The A.A.S. degree also includes general education courses, such as English Composition, Psychology, and electives in communication or humanities.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the program are prepared for roles such as Certified Medical Assistants (CMA) in various healthcare settings, including doctor’s offices, outpatient clinics, and hospitals. The demand for medical assistants is growing, making this a solid career choice in the healthcare field.
Financial Aid and Enrollment
Financial assistance is available through scholarships, WIOA Vouchers, and the PATH Grant, which can help cover tuition, fees, and living expenses. New cohorts begin in Fall and Spring, and students are encouraged to apply early.
How to Enroll
To get started, prospective students should:
- Attend an Information Session.
- Apply to the College of Lake County.
- Meet with a College and Career Navigator to discuss goals and course plans.
The College of Lake County provides a strong foundation for students aiming to enter the healthcare field with a versatile and in-demand skill set through its Medical Assisting program.