Southwestern Michigan College
Southwestern Michigan College (SMC) offers a Medical Assisting Certificate Program designed to equip students with the skills needed for administrative and clinical roles in healthcare settings. This program provides hands-on experience, essential knowledge in medical office procedures, and patient care techniques.
The Medical Assisting program at SMC prepares students to become entry-level medical assistants capable of performing both clinical and administrative duties. Medical assistants are critical in healthcare settings, as they support physicians, nurses, and other medical staff with both patient care and office management tasks.
Course Content
The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, blending classroom learning with practical training in real-world healthcare environments. Key areas include:
- Medical Terminology: Understanding the language used in healthcare.
- Anatomy and Physiology: Learning about the human body and its functions.
- Clinical Procedures: Hands-on training in taking patient histories, preparing for exams, administering medications, and assisting with minor surgeries.
- Medical Office Procedures: Billing, coding, and managing electronic health records.
- Laboratory Skills: Learning to collect and process lab specimens, perform diagnostic tests, and manage medical equipment.
Students will complete both classroom and lab work, ensuring they’re prepared for diverse tasks in healthcare environments.
Duration and Format
The Medical Assisting Certificate program typically takes one year to complete, assuming full-time enrollment. The program consists of around 30-35 credit hours. Students may also take part-time classes, extending the length of the program.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Medical Assisting program will be qualified for a range of positions, including:
- Medical Assistant in hospitals, clinics, or private practices.
- Administrative Medical Assistant, focusing on office management and patient coordination.
- Clinical Assistant involved in direct patient care and assisting healthcare providers.
- Medical Receptionist or roles in medical billing and coding.
This credential can also serve as a stepping stone to further education in healthcare.
Tuition and Costs
The estimated total tuition for the program:
| Category | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| Tuition and fees (In-district) | $6,026 |
| Tuition and fees (In-state) | $7,364 |
| Tuition and fees (Out-of-state) | $7,850 |
| Books and supplies | $1,520 |
| Food and Housing (On Campus) | $9,500 |
| Other expenses (On Campus) | $1,790 |
| Food and Housing (Off Campus) | $7,460 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus) | $2,266 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $2,266 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, On Campus) | $18,836 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus) | $17,272 |
| Total Expenses (In-district, Off Campus with Family) | $9,812 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, On Campus) | $20,174 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus) | $18,610 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus with Family) | $11,150 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, On Campus) | $20,660 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus) | $19,096 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus with Family) | $11,636 |
Additional costs may include textbooks, uniforms, and certification exam fees. Financial aid and scholarship options are available for eligible students, and the college’s financial aid office can assist in finding these resources.
Program Requirements
To apply for the Medical Assisting program, students must:
- Have a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete Southwestern Michigan College’s admission application.
- Meet specific health requirements, such as vaccinations, and pass a background check or drug screening (required for internships or clinical placements).
How to Enroll
Interested students can follow these steps to enroll:
- Submit an application to Southwestern Michigan College.
- Meet with an academic advisor to discuss course selection and program details.
- Apply for financial aid or scholarships if needed.
- Attend orientation sessions before the start of the program.
- Ensure all health and background check requirements are met.
Certification and Accreditation
Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for certification exams such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), both of which are nationally recognized credentials.
For more information or to get started with the application process, you can visit SMC’s Medical Assisting Program webpage or contact their admissions office directly. The program is a great opportunity for those looking to begin a rewarding career in the medical field.