Northwestern College
The Medical Assisting Certificate Program at Northwestern College equips students with the skills needed for a rewarding career in healthcare. This program covers both clinical and administrative duties and includes courses such as Anatomy, Medical Terminology, Clinical Procedures, Billing, and Pharmacology. A significant feature is the 160-hour externship, offering practical experience in a real healthcare setting.
Program Highlights
- Duration: Approximately 1 year
- Format: Classroom and hands-on training, including an externship
- Certification: Graduates are eligible to take the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam through American Medical Technologists (AMT)
Course Content
The curriculum of the Medical Assisting Program is designed to cover a wide range of essential healthcare topics. Students will learn:
- Medical terminology and anatomy
- Clinical skills like vital signs measurement and patient care
- Administrative tasks such as medical billing, coding, and office management
- Basic pharmacology and medication administration
These courses ensure graduates are well-prepared to handle both patient interactions and administrative duties in various healthcare environments.
Tuition and Costs
To get the most accurate information regarding tuition, fees, and financial aid options, it’s best to directly contact the admissions office at Northwestern College. There may be financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and payment plans, available to eligible students.
| Estimated Expenses | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $18,475 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,548 |
| Off Campus Food and Housing | $8,100 |
| Off Campus Other Expenses | $3,160 |
| Off Campus with Family Other Expenses | $7,208 |
| Total Expenses (Off Campus) | $31,283 |
| Total Expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $27,231 |
Career Opportunities
Upon completing the program, graduates are well-positioned to pursue careers as medical assistants in:
- Hospitals
- Physician offices
- Outpatient care centers
- Specialty clinics (such as pediatrics, obstetrics, etc.)
The demand for medical assistants is growing, with job opportunities expected to increase in coming years, making this a great field for those interested in healthcare.
How to Enroll
Enrolling in the Medical Assisting Certificate Program is straightforward:
- Application: Start by submitting an online application through the Northwestern College website.
- Admission Requirements: The program typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, and students may need to complete an admissions interview or placement test.
- Financial Aid: If you require financial assistance, be sure to complete the FAFSA and explore scholarships or grants offered by the college.
- Orientation: After acceptance, students are required to attend an orientation session to understand program expectations and resources.
This program offers an excellent pathway into the healthcare field, providing both the knowledge and experience needed to succeed in medical assisting. For more details, visit Northwestern College Medical Assisting Program.