Waukesha County Technical College
The Medical Assisting program at Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) is designed for students seeking a quick entry into healthcare, combining clinical and administrative skills. The program prepares graduates to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including physicians’ offices and outpatient clinics. Here’s a breakdown of key details:
Program Overview
- Duration: 1-year diploma program (32 credits)
- Start Dates: Fall (August), Spring (January), Summer (June)
- Delivery: A mix of online and in-person courses, emphasizing hands-on experience in medical settings.
Course Content
The curriculum is comprehensive, covering a variety of essential skills required to become a successful medical assistant:
- Clinical skills: Administering injections, taking vital signs, phlebotomy, and preparing patients for exams.
- Administrative skills: Medical billing, scheduling, and managing medical records.
- Laboratory skills: Performing routine lab procedures, such as specimen collection and basic lab tests.
- Soft skills: Communication, patient care, professionalism, and healthcare law/ethics.
Program Requirements
To enroll in the Medical Assistant program at WCTC, students need:
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED
- Health requirements: Proof of immunizations, a background check, and current BLS (Basic Life Support) certification.
- Additional materials: Students are required to purchase scrubs and other supplies, estimated at $75, and fulfill immunization requirements, which could cost up to $850.
Costs and Tuition
The tuition varies depending on residency status (in-district, out-of-district, out-of-state):
| Category | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| Tuition and fees (In-state) | $4,720 |
| Tuition and fees (Out-of-state) | $6,996 |
| Books and supplies | $2,064 |
| Food and Housing (Off Campus) | $9,616 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus) | $4,260 |
| Other expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $4,260 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus) | $20,660 |
| Total Expenses (In-state, Off Campus with Family) | $11,044 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus) | $22,936 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state, Off Campus with Family) | $13,320 |
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can expect to find employment in several healthcare settings, such as:
- Physicians’ offices
- Outpatient care centers
- Urgent care clinics
- Specialty practices like pediatrics or OB/GYN
Medical assistants are often employed to perform both clinical and administrative duties, making them versatile healthcare professionals. Additionally, the program prepares graduates to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam, which boosts employability and career growth.
How to Enroll
- Application: Submit an online application via the WCTC website.
- Transcripts: Provide your high school or college transcripts.
- Placement tests: Based on your previous education, you may be required to take placement tests.
- Health prerequisites: Complete immunization and certification requirements.
- Orientation: Attend a program orientation session after acceptance.
For further details and to apply, visit WCTC Medical Assisting Program.