Medical Assistant Certificate Program

Medical Assistant Certificate Program

Classes Start January 13th

Through flexible learning options and quality instruction, the Medical Assistant Certificate Program at CHCP helps prepare students to enter the fast-paced, fulfilling world of allied healthcare as medical assistants.

Spanning 36 weeks, CHCP’s Medical Assistant Certificate Program trains students in both clinical and administrative skills for a well-rounded approach to the multifaceted role. From taking vital signs and documenting medical histories to processing insurance and billing, students in the program acquire the knowledge they’ll need to excel in a medical assisting role.

Flexible On-Campus Learning

CHCP provides both blended learning and a fully online Medical Assisting Certificate Program. For on-campus education, students have the freedom to choose from the following schedules at any of our Texas campus locations:

  • New one-day on-campus learning
  • Two-day on-campus learning
  • Two- and three-day on-campus night classes

All additional learning for our blended programs is completed online, merging the convenience of online courses with the value of in-person training.

Taking Your Education Further

Credits earned to achieve a Medical Assistant Certificate from CHCP hold additional value and can be transferred into our Health and Medical Administrative Services Associate Degree Program. This program is designed as a degree completion, empowering students to work towards a role in management and further their careers.

Medical Assistant Programs in Texas | Our Locations

The Medical Assistant Certificate Program is offered at every CHCP campus, strategically located near medical facilities in major Texas metropolitan areas. Through blended learning options, students can gain hands-on clinical training from healthcare professionals while reducing their commute time to and from campus.

Medical Assistant Programs Dallas and Fort Worth

Dallas Campus Fort Worth Campus

Medical Assistant Programs Austin

Austin Campus

Medical Assistant Programs San Antonio & McAllen

McAllen Campus San Antonio - North Campus San Antonio - South Campus

Medical Assistant Programs Garland

Garland Campus

Medical Assistant Skills and Course Modules

Our Medical Assistant Certificate Program takes a holistic approach, focusing on clinical and administrative skills while prioritizing professional communication with co-workers, patients, and medical personnel. Explore the course modules below for details on specific skills, medical assistant classes, and program outcomes.

Module IModule IIModule IIIModule IVModule VModule VIModule VIIModule VIII

Master Student/Study Skills

MSS 130

Students will become familiar with basic study and learning skills to include learning styles, goal setting, memorization techniques, reading comprehension, note taking, test taking, critical thinking, effective communication diversity, and technology. Prerequisite: None

Lecture8hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours8hr.
Credits0.5 

HIPAA / OSHA / Infection Control

HIP 130

Students will learn about the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This course will identify rights for individuals and the processes that health care providers must implement to support individual rights. Students must demonstrate knowledge of the rules for the use and disclosure of information. Students will learn about transmission of disease, hand washing techniques and gloving. This course will ensure that students are aware of biohazards and airborne pathogens, including infection control procedures and laboratory safety. Students must demonstrate infection control procedures and laboratory safety. Prerequisite: None

Lecture10hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours10hr.
Credits0.5 

Overview of Anatomy, Physiology, and Medical Terminology

OAPT 130

Students will learn and Identify basic structures, functions and dysfunctions of the body, as well as medical terminology, abbreviations and symbols that are necessary tools for building a medical vocabulary. This course covers general treatment of the sensory, skeletal and muscular, nervous, endocrine, digestive, respiratory, Circulatory, Urinary and reproductive, and integumentary systems. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

A&P A - Nervous System and Special Senses

MA 301

Students will learn the specific terminology and learn and identify basic structures, functions, and dysfunctions of the body as they pertain to the Nervous System and Special Senses. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture24hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours24hr.
Credits1.5 

Medical Psychology/Human Relations*

MA 313

Students learn how to deal with difficult patients, abnormal behavior and terminal illness, and specific needs of patients and emotional family crisis as well as interaction with employers/co-workers. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Medical Clinical Procedures A

MA 302

Students will learn skills with emphasis on patient assessments, physical examination, assist with eye and ear care and treatments as directed by physician: Includes vital signs, specimen collection and documentation of patient information, medical asepsis, office clinical procedures, and other treatments as appropriate for ambulatory settings. Student will complete skills competencies. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture8hr.
Laboratory16hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours24hr.
Credits1 

Medical Office Procedures/Management

MAAS 213G

Students will learn manual and computerized records management, how to take patient histories, filing, appointments and scheduling, basic bookkeeping, billing/collections, banking/payroll, telephone techniques, safety of the medical office and professional conduct. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Medical Insurance and Managing Medical Records

MAAS 211G

This course introduces students to the subject of medical health records. Students consider inpatient and outpatient scenarios and the differences between paper and electronic files. The course explores the advantages and risks of electronic medical records with a focus on HIPAA compliance. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

A&P B – Muscular, Skeletal and Digestive Systems

MA 303

Students will learn the specific terminology and learn and identify basic structures, functions and dysfunctions of the body as they pertain to the Muscular, Skeletal and Digestive systems. Research Assignment 2 – Career Services Prep. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture24hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours24hr.
Credits1.5 

Medical Clinical Procedures B

MA 304

This course introduces sources and forms of drugs, drug classifications, drug effects on the body systems, and basic concept of administration and calculation of dosages. Students will also learn the basic principles of IV therapy; review vital signs; patient education; Concepts of physical therapy, pediatric and geriatric care and medical office safety are discussed and performed. Students will complete skills competencies. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture20hr.
Laboratory28hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits1.5 

Medical Law and Ethics

MA 305

The students will learn the legal relationships of physicians and patients, contractual agreements, professional liability, malpractice, medical practice acts, informed consent, and bioethical issues. Emphasis is placed on legal terms, professional attitudes, and the principles and basic concepts of ethics and laws involved in providing medical services. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture24hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours24hr.
Credits1.5 

A&P C - Cardiovascular, Lymphatic, Circulatory, and Respiratory Systems

MA 306

Students will learn the specific terminology and learn and identify basic structures, functions and dysfunctions of the body as they pertain to the Cardiovascular, Lymphatic, Circulatory, and Respiratory systems. Research Assignment 3 – Career Services Prep. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours32hr.
Credits2 

Medical Clinical Procedures C

MA 307

This course introduces phlebotomy; clinical laboratory procedures; EKG’s; CPR Certification; Pulmonary Function Testing. Students will review vital signs, aseptic technique, and charting, patient education and medication administration. Students will identify parts of the microscope, as well as perform hematology, microbiology and chemistry procedures. Students differentiate various laboratory departments and personnel, complete laboratory requisitions and practice laboratory safety. Students as assisting with minor surgeries, medical emergencies and emergency readiness. Students will complete skills competencies. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture28hr.
Laboratory36hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours64hr.
Credits2.5 

A&P D – Integumentary and Endocrine Systems

MA 308

Students will learn the specific terminology and learn and identify basic structures, functions and dysfunctions of the body as they pertain to the Integumentary and Endocrine systems. Research Assignment 4 – Career Services Prep. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours32hr.
Credits2 

Electronic Health Records

MA 309

This course reviews the history of and current state of the electronic health record, trends, healthcare information applications such as clinical information systems, administrative information systems, and management support systems. Students will explore the transition from a paper based health record to an electronic health record and the associated issues. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture28hr.
Laboratory36hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours64hr.
Credits2.5 

A&P E – Urinary and Reproductive System

MA 310

Students will learn the specific terminology and learn and identify basic structures, functions and dysfunctions of the body as they pertain to the Urinary and Reproductive systems. Research Assignment 5 – Career Services Prep. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours32hr.
Credits2 

Medical Clinical Procedures D

MA 311

Students will learn to perform Urinalysis (physical/chemical/microscopic); students will identify and assist with life span specialties and specialty exams, students will also review proper charting. Students will complete skills competencies. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture12hr.
Laboratory24hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours36hr.
Credits1 

Medical Administrative Procedures

MA 312

Medical office procedures including appointment scheduling, medical records creation and maintenance, interpersonal communications, bookkeeping tasks, coding, billing, collecting, third party reimbursement, credit arrangements, and computer use in the medical office. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture8hr.
Laboratory20hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours28hr.
Credits1 

Customer Service/Professionalism and Career Preparation

CSP 201

This course will teach the student about professionalism, including work-place behaviors that result in positive business relationships. Students will learn goal-setting, stress-management, time-management, professional dress, etiquette, diversity in the work place relationships, excellent customer service, communication at work, conflict management, job search skills, building resumes, and interview techniques. Prerequisite: Modules I-VII

Lecture30hr.
Laboratory18hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits2.5 

Cert Prep

MAC 301

Certification Prep allows the student to review for a state or national registry. This is done by using review material and the use of practice exam that covers all areas of the exam. Student will complete exam application and take certification exam. Prerequisite: Modules I-VII

Lecture15hr.
Laboratory15hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours30hr.
Credits1.5 

Externship

MAX 301

Students will be able to apply in a practical setting the professional skills learned in the classroom, as a Medical Assistant. Prerequisite: Modules I-VII

Lecture0hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship180hr.
Total Hours180hr.
Credits4 

Medical Assistant Certification and Course Outcomes

CHCP's Medical Assistant Certificate Program lays the foundation for essential skills, propelling students to pursue their desired careers. Whether specializing in healthcare areas or pursuing additional certifications, their journey starts with training from experienced professionals.

Upon completing the 36-week program, students have the option to take the Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant (NRCMA) examination. This exam demonstrates competency in the core medical assisting skills needed to work proficiently in the role. To learn more about outcomes and continuing education options, you can explore our Medical Assistant Certificate overview.

The Medical Assistant Role

Our Medical Assistant Certificate Program aims to help students begin pursuing a career as medical assistants. In this position, you’ll serve as the critical link between patients, providers, insurance companies, and medical facilities. Typically, this entails performing a mix of clinical, patient-facing tasks and administrative duties.

Medical assistants can work in several different healthcare environments, including but not limited to hospitals, medical offices, nursing homes, outpatient facilities, and surgical centers. Some medical assistants may specialize in a particular field, such as pediatrics, cancer treatment, or gerontology. At CHCP, our comprehensive coverage of foundational medical assistant skills means that our students can explore a variety of fields and prepare for further education.

If you are ready or if you need more information, simply fill out the form to have one of our Admissions Advisors contact you! Take the first step toward a new healthcare career as a medical assistant.

Start Your Application

How to Become a Medical Assistant | Admission Criteria

Ready to enroll? To apply for the Medical Assistant Certificate Program at CHCP, fill out the application form with a few details regarding your program, location of interest, and contact information. From there, you’ll be connected to a CHCP advisor to finish the process and determine your next steps. The following requirements must be met as prerequisites for admission to the program.

  • A high school diploma or GED
  • A Scholastic Level Exam score of at least 10 (score of 13 for the online program)
  • The ability to read and write in English

Have questions? We are here to help you every step of the way, from personalized student support to job placement assistance and career services for life. Get in touch with one of our admissions advisors to find out how to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Medical Assistant Certificate Program

How old do you have to be to become a Medical Assistant?

In many cases, it is required to be at least 18 years old to become a Medical Assistant. To apply for CHCP's Medical Assistant Program it is not required to have a high school diploma, but you do need to be able to read and write in English and meet the Scholastic Level Exam score requirements. 

How much does it cost to get a Medical Assistant Certificate?

The cost to get a Medical Assistant Certificate depends on the specific program and the amount of financial aid and scholarships that an individual receives. CHCP's Medical Assistant Certificate Program starts at around $17,400, not factoring in any of the grants and financial aid many students apply for. To find out how much students similar to you paid to attend CHCP, try our Net Price Calculator. 

What is the fastest Medical Assistant program?

Students within CHCP's Medical Assistant Program have the option to choose a blended or fully online coursework to fit into their schedule and timeline. The program can be completed in as fast as 36 weeks with flexible learning paths depending on your situation. 

Medical Assistant Graduate - Kiana

"I wanted a solid career to be able to better take care of my son’s health and decided to join CHCP’s Medical Assistant Certificate Program. My favorite part of the program was when we got to practice skills on each other and the hands-on labs. It was all generally fun, and the people and teachers were awesome. I learned what a normal blood pressure is supposed to be and how to draw blood. For anyone looking into healthcare or school, my advice to you is - just do it! The faster you hop on and do it the faster you will have that education and enter the field."

Hear Kiana's Story >

Kiana — Medical Assistant Graduate

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Find the Career of Your Dreams

If you’ve decided on a career in the allied healthcare industry and are searching for your perfect fit, we’re here to help. As an ABHES Accredited Allied Healthcare College, we’re committed to guiding and supporting our students as they take steps towards a fulfilling career. Get in touch with one of our admissions advisors today to learn more about certificate programs, stackable degrees, tuition resources, and the wide range of professions you can pursue through CHCP.

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