Moraine Valley Community College
The Medical Assistant Program at Moraine Valley Community College offers comprehensive training to prepare students for entry-level roles in the healthcare field. Below is a detailed overview of the program:
Program Overview
The Medical Assistant Program combines both administrative and clinical training. It includes hands-on classroom experience and a required 160-hour unpaid externship in a healthcare setting to ensure students are job-ready upon graduation. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Program Content
The curriculum covers a variety of topics that include:
- Medical terminology
- Anatomy and physiology
- Clinical procedures such as taking vital signs and drawing blood
- Administrative tasks such as medical billing, coding, and patient scheduling
- Pharmacology, infection control, and laboratory techniques
- Professional and ethical behavior in healthcare
Requirements
To enroll in the Medical Assistant Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
- Meet physical health requirements (with specific immunizations)
- Hold Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR certification for healthcare providers
- Pass a background check and drug screening
Program Duration
The Medical Assistant Program typically spans two semesters of full-time study. This timeframe includes the externship component. Part-time options may be available for students needing more flexibility.
Career Opportunities
Upon successful completion, graduates can pursue roles such as:
- Medical Assistant in physician’s offices, clinics, and hospitals
- Phlebotomist
- Medical records clerk
- Medical office assistant
- Administrative support in healthcare settings
Graduates are also eligible to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam, which further enhances employability.
Tuition and Costs
The cost for in-district students is approximately $146 per credit hour, with some additional fees for lab courses and materials. Financial aid, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs are available for eligible students.
| Estimated expenses for academic year | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| Tuition and fees (In-district) | $3,822 |
| Tuition and fees (In-state) | $8,502 |
| Tuition and fees (Out-of-state) | $9,846 |
| Books and supplies | $1,584 |
| Off Campus Food and Housing | $17,200 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus) | $6,699 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $4,513 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus) | $29,305 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus with Family) | $9,919 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus) | $33,985 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus with Family) | $14,599 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus) | $35,329 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus with Family) | $15,943 |
How to Enroll
Prospective students must complete an online application and attend an information session. Admission is competitive, so meeting the program’s requirements does not guarantee placement.
Additional Information
- Location: Moraine Valley Community College, Palos Hills, IL
- Accreditation: CAAHEP accredited
- Externship: Required 160-hour unpaid externship for practical experience
For more details or to begin the enrollment process, visit the Moraine Valley Community College Medical Assistant Program website.