The Medical Assistant Program at Delaware County Community College (DCCC) provides students with a pathway to enter healthcare as multi-skilled professionals. With options to pursue an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) or a Certificate of Proficiency, the program equips students with the clinical and administrative skills necessary to work in ambulatory care settings. The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Program Options
Students can choose between the Associate in Applied Science (62 credits) or the Certificate of Proficiency (43 credits) programs. Both pathways emphasize practical and theoretical learning, preparing students to assist physicians with patient care, medical procedures, and administrative tasks. For those looking for a shorter commitment, the certificate program serves as a stepping stone to the associate degree.
The associate degree program typically takes five semesters to complete, including a 4-credit externship during the fourth semester. The certificate program can be completed in fewer semesters but still includes essential hands-on training and certification exam preparation.
Accreditation and Standards
DCCC’s Medical Assistant Program follows strict guidelines set by the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB) to ensure quality training. Students progress through a set sequence of courses, and medical assistant competencies are assessed during clinical courses. This ensures students graduate with the skills required for entry-level roles.
Externship and Hands-On Training
The program includes a clinical externship at a local medical facility, providing students with valuable real-world experience. This externship is a key component, allowing students to apply learned skills in a professional setting under the supervision of allied health instructors. Students must meet documentation requirements, including background checks, vaccinations, and liability insurance, before participating.
Prerequisites
To enroll, students must:
- Take placement tests in math, reading, and English.
- Address any academic deficiencies before registering for clinical courses.
- Provide documentation for externship requirements, such as:
- FBI and state background checks
- Physical exams and vaccinations
- CPR certification
- Drug screening
Key Features of the Program
- Flexible Learning Options: Students can integrate fifth-semester courses into earlier semesters for a lighter schedule.
- Certification Exam Preparation: Students sit for the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) certification exam during the program.
- Accredited Curriculum: Accredited by CAAHEP, ensuring students receive industry-standard training.
- Multi-Skilled Training: Combines administrative and clinical training to meet the demands of modern healthcare.
Outcomes and Performance
Based on the program’s 5-year cumulative data, DCCC reports strong performance in retention and job placement:
- Retention Rates: Associate Degree (94.81%), Certificate (83.02%)
- Job Placement Rates: Associate Degree (69.84%), Certificate (63.46%)
- Exam Passage Rates: Associate Degree (65.57%), Certificate (69.39%)
Both graduates and employers have reported 100% satisfaction with the program’s training and outcomes.
Is This Program Right for You?
This program is ideal for students seeking a structured, accredited pathway into medical assisting. With options to pursue a certificate or degree, it accommodates different career goals and timelines. If you’re ready to commit to five semesters of focused training, gain hands-on experience through an externship, and meet the program’s documentation requirements, DCCC’s Medical Assistant Program could be a great fit.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified |
| Duration | 5 semesters |
| Class Schedules | Not specified |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Requirements | Placement tests, background checks, vaccinations, CPR certification, physical exam |
| Address | 901 S. Media Line Rd, Media, PA 19063 |
| Phone | 610-723-2000 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | Medical Assistant Program Page |
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