Catalog 2022-2023

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Medical Assistant

Associate in Science Degree

The Medical Assistant Associate of Science Degree Program prepares students to work in the front and back office of a physician's office, clinic or other out-patient facilities. Multiple skills and areas of theory are taught to prepare graduates to assume an important and valuable role as a team member in health care delivery. Upon completion of all required courses, students are assisted with the placement of an internship in a local health care facility. This is a valuable experience in applying the knowledge and skills acquired in class to the workplace. Required prior to entry into an internship: 1. Health statement and physical examination 2. Current CPR certificate 3. Keyboarding proficiency of at least 35 wpm 4. Basic word processing skills 5. Completion of all required courses with a grade of C or better Many facilities are requiring background checks and drug testing prior to entry.

Required Courses: HTCH 54A must be taken twice to equal 4 units: (42 units)

Course NumberCourse TitleUnits
HTCH001Introduction to Health Care1 unit
HTCH002Medical Information Processing2 units
HTCH004Structure and Function of the Human Body3 units
HTCH005Basic Medical Terminology3 units
HTCH006Advanced Medical Terminology3 units
HTCH007Medical Ethics & Law2 units
HTCH008Communication for Health Care Personnel2 units
HTCH041Medical Office Business Procedures3 units
HTCH042Insurance Billing and Coding2 units
HTCH043Basic Medical Accounting and Record Keeping3 units
HTCH044Electronic Medical Records2 units
HTCH055Vital Signs and Assisting with Medical Examinations2 units
HTCH057Sterile Techniques2.5 units
HTCH058Laboratory Techniques3 units
HTCH063Medication Administration1.5 units
HTCH064ECG and Orthopedic Technology2.5 units
HSCI003CPR / AED - Basic Life Support for Providers and Professionals0.5 units
HTCH054AInternship for Health Care Technologies2 units
HTCH054AInternship for Health Care Technologies2 units

Total Major Units: 42 units

To be awarded an Associate Degree, a student must:

  1. Achieve a grade of “C” or better in the major requirements.
  2. Completion of WVC, CSU-Breadth, or IGETC General Education patterns. Students whose goal is to obtain a bachelor’s degree should complete the CSU-Breadth or IGETC General Education pattern.
  3. Complete additional degree applicable units to meet the minimum 64-unit Associate Degree requirements.

Upon successful completion of this program a student will be able to:

  • Demonstrate the ability to assist medical care providers in delivering patient care.
  • Demonstrate the ability to manage medical front office tasks and responsibilities.
  • Demonstrate the ability to access and input patient information using electronic medical records systems.
Last Updated 10/14/22