Lake Michigan College
Lake Michigan College (LMC) offers a Medical Assisting Program that prepares students for entry-level roles in healthcare, combining both administrative and clinical tasks. This program is available in two options: an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree and an Advanced Certificate.
Program Overview
- The Associate in Applied Science in Medical Assisting prepares students for various administrative and clinical duties. Graduates will be eligible to take certification exams, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam through the American Medical Technologists (AMT).
- The Advanced Certificate option is shorter and focuses on core skills required for medical assistants. This program requires the completion of 43 credits and covers topics such as medical terminology, office procedures, human anatomy, and clinical labs.
Key Program Features
- Hands-on Training: The program includes externships, offering real-world experience in local hospitals, medical practices, and labs.
- Flexible Scheduling: LMC provides flexibility for students who need to balance studies with work or family, offering day and evening classes.
- Career Opportunities: Medical assistants are in high demand, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 29% job growth by 2026.
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), ensuring high educational standards.
Program Duration and Content
The Associate Degree program typically takes around two years to complete, including both general education and core medical assisting courses such as pharmacology, medical coding, and clinical labs. The Advanced Certificate can be completed faster and focuses solely on medical assistant core competencies.
Costs and Financial Aid
Tuition varies based on residency, but financial aid options are available, including scholarships and Michigan Works! funding. In-state students can expect lower tuition costs compared to out-of-state learners.
| Category | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| Tuition and fees (In-district) | $5,265 |
| Tuition and fees (In-state) | $7,500 |
| Tuition and fees (Out-of-state) | $7,500 |
| Books and supplies | $1,934 |
| Food and Housing (On Campus) | $7,680 |
| Other expenses (On Campus) | $2,848 |
| Food and Housing (Off Campus) | $9,184 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus) | $3,812 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $3,812 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, On Campus) | $17,727 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus) | $20,195 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus with Family) | $11,011 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, On Campus) | $19,962 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus) | $22,430 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus with Family) | $13,246 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, On Campus) | $19,962 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus) | $22,430 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus with Family) | $13,246 |
Enrollment Requirements
- To enroll, students must complete an online application. They will also need to pass a background check and provide proof of certain immunizations such as MMR, Hepatitis B, and COVID-19, among others.
- Applicants are advised to consult with an academic advisor to help with the planning process.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the program can pursue roles as medical assistants in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, private practices, and outpatient care facilities. The certification exams provide added credibility and enhance employment opportunities.
For more detailed information or to start the application process, prospective students can visit the Lake Michigan College website.