The Medical Assistant program at the Center for Employment Training (CET) in San Diego is designed to quickly prepare students for entry-level positions in healthcare. The training covers 900 hours, typically completed within 8 to 9 months, making it ideal for students eager to enter the workforce promptly. Classes offer a combination of hands-on training, practical administrative skills, and clinical experience through a mandatory externship.
What You’ll Learn in the Program
CET provides comprehensive training that blends both administrative and clinical responsibilities. Students learn how to handle patient scheduling, manage medical records, perform medical billing and coding, and acquire essential communication skills. On the clinical side, you will gain practical experience taking vital signs, assisting during patient exams, administering medications, performing basic lab tests, and handling medical emergencies.
The program covers key medical topics including:
- Allied Healthcare Fundamentals
- Medical Office Communication and Skills
- Clinical Laboratory Practices
- Medical Records Management
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Pharmacology and Basic Nutrition
- Job Readiness (Resume Building and Interview Preparation)
Class Schedule Options
The Medical Assistant program at CET offers flexible schedules to accommodate varying student needs. You can choose from either a day or evening program:
- Daytime Classes: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Evening Classes: Monday to Friday, 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
This flexibility is beneficial for students who may be working or have other daytime obligations.
Certification and Career Preparation
Upon completing the program, students are eligible to sit for the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) certification exam. Holding this certification can significantly enhance job prospects and salary potential. CET emphasizes that certification validates your skills to prospective employers, increasing your marketability in the healthcare job market.
Additionally, CET offers robust job placement support. Students receive personalized help preparing resumes, practicing interview skills, and connecting with potential employers. This support is part of CET’s integrated approach to training.
Cost and Financial Aid
The total cost of the program is $15,249, which covers tuition, textbooks, medical kit, supplies, and scrubs. Financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and federal loans, are available for eligible students. CET’s financial aid office is proactive in assisting students to understand and access available funding sources.
Admissions Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
- Passing a criminal background check
- Health screening and immunizations (required before clinical placement)
Class Size and Student Support
Classes at CET typically have about 20-25 students, providing a comfortable learning environment with sufficient instructor attention. The school also offers additional tutoring in basic English and math skills for students who need extra assistance, ensuring everyone has the support necessary to succeed.
Career Opportunities for Graduates
Graduates from CET’s program are qualified for various roles within the medical assisting field, including:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
- Medical Office Assistant
- Doctor’s Assistant
- Clinical Assistant
- Chiropractic Assistant
- Optometric Technician, among others.
Medical Assistants from CET often find jobs in hospitals, clinics, private practices, and specialized healthcare facilities.
Who Should Consider CET?
CET is ideal for students seeking fast-paced, hands-on medical assisting training. Those who benefit most are students who need flexible schedules, robust career services, and immediate entry into the healthcare workforce. However, given the cost, prospective students should carefully consider financial aid availability before enrolling.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $15,249 (includes tuition, supplies, books, and scrubs) |
| Duration | 8-9 months (900 hours) |
| Class Schedules | Day: M-F, 8:00 am – 3:00 pm; Evening: M-F, 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Requirements | High school diploma/GED, background check, health screening, immunizations |
| Address | 4153 Market Street, Suite C, San Diego, CA 92102 |
| Phone | (619) 527-4895 |
| Website | cetweb.edu/program/medical-assistant |
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