MiraCosta College offers an affordable and flexible Medical Assistant program designed for those seeking a quick entry into healthcare. This program, located in Oceanside, California, costs approximately $2,000, and combines online classes, hands-on training, and clinical experience. The entire program totals 160 hours, making it suitable for students who need a shorter, yet thorough, educational experience.
Program Overview
Launched in January 2019, MiraCosta’s Medical Assistant program runs for approximately one year, starting every August. The coursework mixes virtual learning with on-campus instruction and clinical practice in real healthcare settings. Because this schedule might change, it’s important to confirm dates and times before enrolling.
Students in this program are trained in both administrative duties (front office tasks like patient check-ins, scheduling appointments, and maintaining medical records) and clinical duties (back office responsibilities including assisting doctors with exams, performing EKG tests, taking blood samples, and advocating for patients). Graduates will be ready to work under the guidance of doctors or registered nurses in various healthcare settings.
Admission Prerequisites
Before enrolling, students need to complete certain prerequisite courses, which ensure they’re prepared for the rigorous training. The prerequisites include:
- Nursing 151 (Body Systems Survey for Health Professionals) or equivalent Anatomy or Physiology course.
- Nursing 155 (Basic Medical Terminology) or an equivalent course.
These courses must be completed with at least a grade of “C” or better.
Application and Admission Process
Applications are accepted continuously, and applicants are added to a waitlist on a first-come, first-served basis. To apply, prospective students must:
- Be at least 17 years old.
- Submit proof of high school graduation (diploma or GED) or transcripts verifying an associate or bachelor’s degree.
- Provide official transcripts showing completion of prerequisite courses.
Applicants who earned a degree outside of the United States need their transcripts evaluated by an accredited service recognized by MiraCosta’s Admissions & Records office.
Additional Requirements Upon Acceptance
Students accepted into the program will need to fulfill additional requirements:
- Pass a physical examination, including specific immunizations.
- Provide evidence they are free of communicable diseases.
- Successfully pass a background check through American Data Bank (ADB) and a urine drug screening. This is mandatory due to requirements from local hospitals and clinical agencies.
If a student’s background or drug screen does not meet clinical site standards, they will be unable to continue in the program.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
The program’s estimated cost of $2,000 includes tuition, uniforms, textbooks, medical exams, background checks, and immunizations. Students should also budget for reliable transportation, as the clinical portion occurs off-campus at hospitals or clinics around Oceanside.
MiraCosta College offers financial assistance options such as scholarships and loans for eligible students. For more information or assistance applying, students are encouraged to contact the Financial Aid Office directly.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates of MiraCosta’s Medical Assistant program enter a field with promising career opportunities. The average annual salary for medical assistants in the area is around $42,000, with opportunities available in hospitals, doctors’ offices, nursing homes, clinics, government health agencies, and more.
Completing the required 160-hour training also qualifies graduates for Medical Assistant licensure in California.
Who Should Consider This MiraCosta?
MiraCosta’s Medical Assistant program is ideal for students seeking affordable, flexible training within a shorter timeframe. Its combination of online and clinical training suits individuals balancing busy schedules. With rigorous training and clear employment pathways, this program is great for self-motivated learners ready for a fast-paced healthcare career.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost: | Approximately $2,000 |
| Duration: | 160 hours (approximately one year, including summer term) |
| Class Schedules: | Full-time, starts each August, includes online, in-class, and clinical hours |
| Online Classes?: | Yes |
| Requirements: | – High school diploma or GED – Completion of Nursing 151 or equivalent – Completion of Nursing 155 or equivalent – Clean background check and drug screen |
| Address: | 1831 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92058 |
| Phone: | (760) 795-8710 |
| Website: | miracosta.edu |
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