Illinois Valley Community College
Illinois Valley Community College (IVCC) offers a robust Medical Assisting Program aimed at preparing students for a dynamic career in healthcare. The program is completed in one academic year and is a blend of online and in-person learning, offering flexibility and practical experience through hands-on labs and clinical externships. Students acquire both administrative and clinical skills required for medical assisting roles in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and physicians’ offices.
Program Content
The curriculum includes coursework in:
- Medical terminology
- Clinical and administrative procedures
- Medical law and ethics
- Anatomy and physiology
- Pharmacology
- Laboratory techniques
Additionally, students participate in a clinical externship where they gain real-world experience working in healthcare settings, applying what they’ve learned in classrooms.
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of the program application process
- Immunizations, background checks, and drug testing (as required by healthcare externship sites)
- Physical examination
Duration and Class Structure
The Medical Assisting program can be completed within one academic year, consisting of two semesters. It includes both virtual and in-person courses, with practical training in labs and the externship as critical components for hands-on learning.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the IVCC Medical Assisting program are qualified for various positions within the healthcare field, including medical offices, outpatient clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. The demand for medical assistants continues to grow rapidly, making it a promising career path. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
Costs and Financial Aid
The tuition for the Medical Assisting program at IVCC is competitive and affordable, especially when compared to larger universities.
| Category | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| Tuition and fees (In-district) | $4,060 |
| Tuition and fees (In-state) | $13,835 |
| Tuition and fees (Out-of-state) | $14,981 |
| Books and supplies | $1,400 |
| Food and Housing (Off Campus) | $6,750 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus) | $4,440 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $3,990 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus) | $16,650 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus with Family) | $9,450 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus) | $26,425 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus with Family) | $19,225 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus) | $27,571 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus with Family) | $20,371 |
Additionally, students may apply for financial aid, scholarships, and grants, such as the PATH Grant, which helps cover tuition and other program-related costs.
How to Enroll
- Apply through the IVCC website.
- Complete the necessary program admission steps.
- Ensure that all health and safety requirements, such as immunizations and background checks, are fulfilled prior to beginning clinical work.
Why Choose IVCC?
- One-year completion time
- Affordable tuition
- Real-world experience through externships
- High employment demand in the healthcare industry
For more detailed information about the program, application deadlines, and financial aid opportunities, visit the IVCC Medical Assistant Program page.