The Medical Assistant program at NCE is a 36-week diploma program designed to equip students with the skills needed for entry-level roles in healthcare. This program offers both evening classes and a mix of lecture and hands-on clinical training, making it a great fit for those with busy schedules. Students complete 720 clock hours, including 160 hours of externship, ensuring they gain real-world experience.
Overview
Graduates are prepared for various roles, such as assisting physicians, conducting lab tests, and handling administrative tasks like scheduling and billing. The curriculum covers everything from anatomy and medical terminology to lab safety and patient care techniques. NCE emphasizes career readiness, offering job placement assistance and opportunities to earn certifications like the NHA’s National Healthcareer Association Certification.
Curriculum
The program combines classroom lectures and clinical training to cover key medical assistant skills. Students learn injection techniques, electrocardiogram operation, medical coding, and patient care. The inclusion of a 160-hour externship allows students to apply their knowledge in professional healthcare settings.
Flexible Schedule
Classes are held Monday through Thursday in the evenings, accommodating students who work or have other daytime responsibilities. Each module lasts four weeks, offering a structured yet adaptable approach to learning.
Prerequisites
- Complete an admissions interview and career-planning session.
- Provide proof of a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Pass an entrance exam.
- Submit proof of immunizations and pass background checks if required by the externship site.
Externship Details
The program’s externship provides students with hands-on experience in real healthcare settings, such as clinics and hospitals. Students are supervised by industry professionals and expected to perform tasks like vital sign recording, patient preparation, and administrative duties. This practical experience is invaluable for transitioning into the workforce.
Is This Program Right for You?
This program is ideal for individuals looking for a fast-paced, hands-on approach to healthcare training. If you’re interested in working directly with patients, managing administrative tasks, and contributing to a healthcare team, this program may be the right choice. With its flexible evening classes and strong focus on job readiness, NCE offers a solid path to a rewarding medical assistant career.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Information not available. Likely varies per student |
| Duration | 36 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Evening classes, Monday-Thursday |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Requirements | High school diploma or equivalent, admissions interview, entrance exam, immunizations required |
| Address | 6249 Sunrise Blvd, Citrus Heights, CA 95610 |
| Phone | (916) 970-3517 |
| Website | https://nce.edu/programs/medical-assistant/ |
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