South Suburban College
South Suburban College (SSC) offers a comprehensive Medical Assisting Certificate Program designed for individuals interested in joining the healthcare field. The program equips students with the skills necessary to perform both administrative and clinical tasks in various healthcare settings.
Program Overview
The Medical Assistant program at SSC spans three semesters (Fall, Spring, and Summer) and consists of a total of 30 credit hours. It includes a mix of coursework and hands-on training through an externship, where students gain real-world experience.
Key Courses Include:
- Medical Terminology
- Administrative Medical Assistant I & II
- Clinical Medical Assistant I & II
- Anatomy and Physiology for Medical Assistants
- Medical Law & Ethics
- Medical Assistant Externship
The program culminates in an externship, offering students practical experience in a healthcare setting.
Requirements for Enrollment
- Submit a completed Medical Assistant Program Application by June 1st for the Fall semester.
- Provide high school or college transcripts.
- Complete college placement tests and remedial courses if necessary (such as math or reading).
- Obtain CPR certification for healthcare providers.
- Submit documentation of immunizations and pass a background check and drug screening.
Tuition and Additional Costs
SSC offers competitive tuition rates, with in-district tuition set at $152 per credit hour, along with additional fees for technology, registration, and other incidentals. Out-of-district students pay $350 per credit hour. Students should also budget approximately $900 for textbooks, $250 for lab fees, and $166 for background checks and uniforms.
| Estimated expenses for academic year | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| Tuition and fees (In-district) | $5,093 |
| Tuition and fees (In-state) | $11,033 |
| Tuition and fees (Out-of-state) | $12,683 |
| Books and supplies | $1,200 |
| Off Campus Food and Housing | $4,400 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus) | $1,200 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $4,300 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus) | $11,893 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus with Family) | $10,593 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus) | $17,833 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus with Family) | $16,533 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus) | $19,483 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus with Family) | $18,183 |
Financial aid and payment plans are available to help students manage costs.
Career Opportunities
Medical Assistants are in high demand, with employment expected to grow 16% from 2021 to 2031. Graduates can find jobs in physicians’ offices, hospitals, outpatient care centers, and chiropractic offices. The median annual wage for medical assistants is around $37,190, with the potential for higher earnings depending on experience and location.
How to Enroll
To enroll in SSC’s Medical Assistant program:
- Apply to South Suburban College through their website.
- Complete the placement tests and submit transcripts.
- Submit the Medical Assistant Program Application and meet all program requirements.
- Contact SSC’s admissions office for additional information on enrollment and financial aid.
This program is an excellent pathway for anyone interested in a stable, growing healthcare career with opportunities for advancement