Kishwaukee College
The Medical Assisting Program at Kishwaukee College is designed to equip students with the skills needed for entry-level positions in healthcare settings, such as clinics, hospitals, and physician offices. This comprehensive certificate program combines both administrative and clinical training, preparing students for a versatile role in patient care and office management.
Program Overview
- Duration: Approximately one year, split across fall, spring, and summer semesters.
- Credits: 30.5-31.5 total credit hours.
- Course Content: The curriculum covers both theoretical and practical aspects of medical assisting. Topics include:
- Medical terminology
- Clinical procedures (vital signs, injections, lab tests)
- Electronic health records management
- Law and ethics in healthcare
- Pharmacology
- Professional communication in healthcare settings
- A supervised externship, providing hands-on experience in real-world medical environments
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the program are prepared for entry-level positions as medical assistants in various healthcare settings, including:
- Physicians’ offices
- Clinics
- Outpatient care centers
- Specialty practices (e.g., pediatrics, dermatology)
Medical assistants often handle both clinical duties, such as administering medications and performing basic lab tests, and administrative responsibilities like managing patient records and scheduling appointments. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for medical assistants is expected to grow faster than average, making it a promising field for job opportunities.
Costs and Tuition
The cost of the program is based on the total credit hours taken. There may be additional costs for textbooks, materials, uniforms, and certification exams. Financial aid and scholarship options may be available to eligible students.
| Category | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| Tuition and fees (In-district) | $4,980 |
| Tuition and fees (In-state) | $9,390 |
| Tuition and fees (Out-of-state) | $13,800 |
| Books and supplies | $1,200 |
| Food and Housing (Off Campus) | $8,651 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus) | $4,556 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $4,556 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus) | $19,387 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus with Family) | $10,736 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus) | $23,797 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus with Family) | $15,146 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus) | $28,207 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus with Family) | $19,556 |
Certification
Upon successful completion, students will be eligible to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) examination, which is a valuable credential for advancing career prospects.
Enrollment Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Placement into college-level reading, writing, and math
- Immunizations and a health physical
- Criminal background check and drug screening may be required prior to the externship.
How to Enroll
- Complete an application through Kishwaukee College’s admissions office.
- Submit required transcripts and documents.
- Meet with an academic advisor to discuss the program and develop an educational plan.
- Register for classes and attend orientation sessions.
Why Choose Kishwaukee College?
Kishwaukee College offers small class sizes, experienced instructors, and access to up-to-date healthcare technology. The program also emphasizes hands-on learning through clinical labs and externship opportunities, giving students real-world experience before graduation.
For more detailed information about the program, costs, and how to apply, visit the Kishwaukee College Medical Assistant Program.