The Medical Assisting Program at Southwestern College (SWC) offers students practical training for immediate entry into healthcare careers. Students choose from specialized tracks: Administrative Medical Assisting, Clinical Medical Assisting, or Medical Insurance Billing and Coding. Each option leads to a Certificate of Achievement. Those looking for advanced opportunities can pursue an Associate of Science Degree in Medical Assisting by completing additional general education courses.
Upon completion, graduates qualify to sit for nationally recognized certification exams offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), enhancing their employability in healthcare settings across San Diego.
Program Tracks and Specializations
1. Administrative Medical Assisting
Administrative medical assistants primarily handle front-office responsibilities in healthcare facilities. SWC prepares students to effectively manage patient scheduling, handle phone calls, greet patients, process medical documents, and coordinate hospital admissions and surgeries. The curriculum emphasizes strong communication skills and efficient computer usage, essential for office management.
2.Clinical Medical Assisting
Clinical medical assistants at SWC learn hands-on medical techniques necessary for patient care. Training includes taking patient histories, measuring vital signs, performing injections, assisting with patient examinations, and applying sterile protocols. Students gain practical experience in SWC’s advanced, realistic medical clinic lab.
3. Medical Insurance Billing and Coding
Students specializing in billing and coding master the complexities of medical billing, insurance procedures, and coding guidelines, specifically using ICD (International Classification of Diseases) and CPT (Current Procedural Terminology). Coursework focuses on interpreting medical records accurately to ensure healthcare providers receive appropriate reimbursements.
Course Structure and Duration
SWC’s Medical Assisting certificates typically take three semesters (around 18 months) to complete if attended full-time. The Associate degree can be completed in about four semesters (approximately two years), plus additional time for general education classes.
All students undergo a structured program that includes classroom instruction, practical lab sessions in SWC’s modern clinic, and mandatory externship experiences. Certificate students participate in 162 hours of externship, while associate degree students complete 216 hours. Externships provide invaluable on-site clinical experience at affiliated local hospitals, medical offices, or clinics.
Program Costs and Scheduling
Southwestern College charges standard California community college tuition rates, making it affordable compared to private career colleges. Financial aid options may also be available to qualifying students.
Classes start every Fall and Spring semester, offering flexible entry points for students. The program primarily consists of on-campus courses held at SWC’s National City Higher Education Center. Currently, SWC does not offer online medical assisting courses, making it best suited for students who prefer in-person learning environments.
Admission and Enrollment
Enrollment at SWC is straightforward, with no formal prerequisites or waiting lists. Students simply need to apply to Southwestern College to obtain a student ID number, then meet with an academic counselor who helps develop a personalized educational plan.
Recommended Preparation Courses (not required but strongly suggested):
- Math 35 or equivalent
- English 71 or equivalent
- Reading 158 or equivalent
- Business 70 or equivalent
Certification and Employment Prospects
SWC’s medical assisting graduates become eligible to sit for nationally recognized certification exams, including:
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
- Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
- Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS)
Certification significantly boosts employment opportunities and salary potential, distinguishing trained professionals in a competitive healthcare market. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for medical assistants is projected to grow rapidly, ensuring favorable employment opportunities for graduates.
Hands-On Training in State-of-the-Art Facilities
A unique feature of the SWC Medical Assisting Program is the modern clinic facility at the National City Higher Education Center. Students practice clinical and administrative skills in a realistic environment, closely simulating a genuine medical office experience. The facility includes a welcoming reception area and multiple medical bays for hands-on clinical practice.
Professionalism and Expectations
Throughout the program, students develop professional attitudes crucial to healthcare settings. SWC emphasizes maintaining a positive professional image, effective patient communication, and adherence to industry-standard practices. Externships reinforce these standards, preparing students for real-world demands.
Faculty and Support
SWC faculty bring real-world expertise, ensuring students receive training that meets current healthcare industry standards. Additional student support services include comprehensive academic advising, transcript evaluations, and career guidance.
Students can access faculty and counselors directly via email or appointments to navigate academic challenges, externship placements, or career advice.
Who Should Consider Southwestern College?
Southwestern College’s Medical Assisting Program is ideal for students seeking structured, affordable training that leads directly to employment. Its lack of formal prerequisites and open enrollment make it accessible, especially for individuals changing careers or entering healthcare for the first time. The program is particularly suitable for students who thrive in hands-on environments and value extensive practical experience through externships. However, since no online courses are offered, this program best serves students who prefer or require traditional, in-person learning.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Standard California community college tuition rates (financial aid available) |
| Duration | Certificates: ~18 months (3 semesters); Degree: ~2 years (4 semesters plus GE classes) |
| Class Schedules | Daytime classes; externships require additional flexible scheduling (162-216 hours) |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Requirements | No formal prerequisites; recommended Math, English, Reading, and Business preparation |
| Address | 900 Otay Lakes Rd, Chula Vista, CA 91910 |
| Phone | (619) 421-6700 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | swccd.edu Medical Assisting Program |
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