The Stepful Medical Assistant Certification Program offers students in San Diego a 4-month, part-time, online training option designed to fit into busy schedules. This course prepares you thoroughly to pass the National Healthcareer Association’s (NHA) Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. It covers essential healthcare topics, from anatomy and medical terminology to clinical skills like phlebotomy and patient care coordination.
Upon successfully completing the online classes, students become eligible for an 80-hour clinical externship, required to solidify real-world medical assistant skills. Stepful promises support with arranging these clinical hours and helps with job placement afterward.
Flexible Learning Format
Stepful is rather unique in its fully online learning model. Classes run part-time, either mornings or evenings, making it accessible for those who need to balance studies with work or other responsibilities. Virtual classes happen twice a week, and there’s flexibility in choosing morning or evening schedules. After online coursework, students transition to complete clinical hours in-person at approved facilities in the San Diego area.
Because Stepful doesn’t provide detailed information on specific clinical sites upfront, it’s important that prospective students directly verify the location and quality of the facility they’ll use for their externship. This extra step ensures you’ll receive quality, hands-on experience that complements the online portion.
Course Content Breakdown
The curriculum is structured clearly into weekly phases, offering progressive learning:
- Weeks 1-4: Basics of healthcare, medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology.
- Weeks 5-8: Practical clinical skills, including infection control, performing EKGs, phlebotomy, and coordinating patient care.
- Weeks 9-13: Office administrative skills, medical ethics, patient interaction, and customer service.
- Weeks 14-16: National certification exam preparation, career coaching, and externship planning.
Stepful emphasizes real-world applicability by combining clinical and administrative skills to fully prepare graduates for varied tasks expected in medical offices and healthcare settings.
Certification and Employment Preparation
This program specifically targets passing the NHA’s Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. Stepful boasts a strong pass rate of 87%, notably above the national average, showing the program’s effectiveness. Certification enhances job market competitiveness and salary potential, with starting salaries averaging around $38,000 annually in the San Diego area.
Another key advantage is the program’s dedicated career support services. After certification, Stepful’s team guides students through resume preparation, interview practice, and ultimately securing employment opportunities.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students must meet the following admission criteria:
- High school diploma or GED
- Stable internet connection to facilitate online learning
No prior medical experience or specialized knowledge is required, making this course accessible to beginners.
Program Cost and Financial Options
Tuition details aren’t explicitly outlined in the provided material, so prospective students should directly contact Stepful for exact costs. Stepful does mention flexible payment plans, including installment options and partial scholarships, making financial planning easier for students.
Students have a two-week grace period to withdraw from the program and receive a tuition refund, although the initial enrollment fee of $59 is non-refundable.
Job Outlook and Career Opportunities
Medical assistants in San Diego earn around $46,850 per year, slightly above the statewide average. With medical assistant jobs projected to increase by 14% through 2033, the career outlook in San Diego is strong. Medical assistants typically find jobs in doctor’s offices, hospitals, and outpatient care centers, enjoying regular weekday hours.
California does not require specific licenses or certifications to work as a medical assistant; however, certifications like the CCMA significantly improve employment prospects.
Important Considerations for Students
Before committing to Stepful’s program, potential students should clarify the following:
- Exact locations for clinical externships in San Diego
- Detailed tuition and potential additional costs
- Specific criteria and deadlines for scholarships or installment payments
Doing this research upfront will ensure a smooth experience from enrollment through job placement.
Who Should Consider Stepful?
Stepful’s Medical Assistant Program is ideal for busy individuals who need the flexibility of online evening classes and who appreciate strong career support services. The short, four-month commitment is perfect for students seeking a quick path into healthcare. However, proactive students willing to independently confirm the quality and location of externship placements in San Diego will benefit the most from this streamlined yet robust training experience.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost: | Not listed (contact Stepful directly); $59 enrollment fee; scholarships available |
| Duration: | 4 months |
| Class Schedules: | Morning or evening, twice a week (Mon–Thurs options) |
| Online Classes?: | Yes – 100% online instruction; in-person externship required |
| Requirements: | High school diploma or GED; stable internet connection |
| Address: | Not specified (online program with in-person externship in CA) |
| Phone: | (332) 334-8285 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| Website: | https://www.stepful.com/program/california-medical-assistant-certification-program |
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