ATA Career Education
The Medical Assisting program at ATA College is an excellent pathway for individuals interested in joining the fast-growing healthcare field. With both a diploma and an associate degree option, the program is designed to provide hands-on training and the theoretical knowledge necessary to excel in medical environments.
Program Options
1. Diploma in Medical Assisting (10 months)
The Medical Assisting Diploma is a fast-track program that can be completed in just 10 months. It focuses on equipping students with the essential clinical and administrative skills needed to support physicians and healthcare professionals. The curriculum covers critical tasks such as:
- Recording patient histories and vital signs
- Scheduling appointments
- Collecting lab specimens and performing EKGs
- Administering medications and basic lab tests Graduates of this program are eligible to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam, enabling them to become certified professionals in the field. This diploma is ideal for students who are eager to enter the workforce quickly and start gaining experience in various healthcare settings such as medical offices, outpatient clinics, and urgent care centers(ATA College).
2. Associate of Science Degree in Medical Assisting (18 months)
For those seeking a more in-depth education, ATA College offers an 18-month Associate of Science in Medical Assisting. This program includes all the foundational training of the diploma program, but also adds broader coursework in medical theory, anatomy, physiology, and medical billing. The program emphasizes both administrative and clinical skills, and includes a required externship. The externship allows students to gain hands-on experience in real medical settings, preparing them for immediate employment upon graduation. Graduates of the associate degree program are also eligible for certifications like the CCMA and Phlebotomy Technician certification, expanding their career prospects further.
Curriculum and Hands-on Training
Both the diploma and associate degree programs emphasize a hybrid learning model. This includes online coursework for theoretical subjects, combined with on-campus labs that allow students to practice and refine their hands-on skills. The hands-on training takes place in ATA’s well-equipped campus labs, where students can simulate real medical scenarios, gaining vital practical experience.
Courses cover areas such as:
- Clinical procedures
- Medical billing and coding
- Anatomy and physiology
- Pharmacology
- Medical terminology
In addition, students participate in an externship, where they can apply their classroom learning in real-world healthcare environments. This blend of classroom learning and hands-on training ensures that graduates are well-prepared to work directly with patients and support healthcare teams.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of ATA College’s Medical Assisting programs have a wide array of career options. Medical assistants are vital in a variety of healthcare settings, from large hospitals to small private practices. Potential employment opportunities include:
- Medical offices
- Diagnostic laboratories
- Hospitals
- Outpatient care centers
- Urgent care centers Medical assistants perform a range of duties, from clinical tasks like drawing blood and performing EKGs to administrative tasks such as scheduling and patient record management. This flexibility makes medical assisting an appealing career for those who enjoy working closely with patients and healthcare professionals.
Financial Aid and Tuition
The table below outlines the costs associated with attending ATA Career Education during the 2023-2024 academic year, including tuition, books, and living expenses for students living off-campus and those living with family.
| Expense Type | Off Campus | Off Campus with Family |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $14,895 | $14,895 |
| Books and Supplies | $3,756 | $3,756 |
| Food and Housing | $8,635 | $0 |
| Other Expenses | $6,525 | $6,525 |
| Total Expenses | $33,811 | $25,176 |
ATA College is committed to making education accessible, offering financial aid for students who qualify.
Enrollment Process
Enrolling in ATA College’s Medical Assisting program is straightforward. Prospective students can begin by visiting the college’s website or contacting the admissions office directly. ATA offers a simple online form to request more information, and admissions advisors are available to guide applicants through the enrollment process, including helping with financial aid applications and determining the best program fit based on individual career goals. Classes are offered during both day and evening sessions to accommodate various schedules.
Why Choose ATA College?
- Flexible Scheduling: ATA offers day and evening classes, making it easier for students to balance their studies with work or other commitments.
- Career Services: Graduates receive support with resume building, interview preparation, and job placement. The college’s Career Services team works closely with students to help them secure externships and employment after graduation.
- Small Class Sizes: ATA emphasizes personalized attention, with small class sizes allowing for individualized instruction from industry professionals.
By choosing ATA College, students gain the practical experience and credentials needed to succeed in the dynamic field of medical assisting. Whether through the diploma or associate degree program, ATA ensures that graduates are ready to step into a rewarding career, with the certifications and skills necessary to thrive.