Choosing a career as a medical assistant can be incredibly fulfilling. But how do you find the right medical assistant program? At Pennco Tech, we offer an outstanding Medical Assistant program at our locations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. We make it easy for students to receive the education they desire in an accessible, convenient way. Here, we pose some of the best questions to ask before enrolling in our medical assistant school.
How Long Is the Program?
Our Medical Assistant program typically can be completed in as little as 18 weeks. Part-time students must complete 12 hours of coursework per week, while full-time students must complete 33 hours per week. Enrolling as a part-time or full-time student can affect how long it takes to complete the course. Those who enroll full-time can finish the course faster than those enrolled part-time.
When Can I Enroll?
Before enrolling, students must have a high school degree or GED. We have rolling admissions, meaning students can apply at any time of the year. Once you apply and are accepted, you are eligible to begin taking courses for medical assisting once the course term begins. After applying, students are consistently updated on the date that their course is scheduled to start and what students need to do to prepare for their courses.
What Skills Are Included in the Program?
Throughout our Medical Assistant program, students can learn a variety of skills, including:
- Clinical skills
- Complete laboratory testing
- Office administration skills
- Technologies used on the job
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Medical terminology
When taking our courses for medical assisting, students can also experience hands-on learning techniques. Not only does this allow students to gain real-life experience in the medical industry, but it also gives them a better understanding of how to apply these skills in a professional setting.
Are Class Schedules Flexible
At Pennco Tech, we understand how busy our students are. Whether you’ve entered the workforce already and are looking for a career change, or you’re a mom who wants to further your education, Pennco Tech accommodates a variety of lifestyles with flexible class scheduling.
We offer both day and night classes, giving students the chance to earn their degrees in a way that’s most convenient for them. Our flexible scheduling also allows students to still complete their regular, everyday duties while earning their degrees.
Is There an Online Component to the Program?
We emphasize the importance of hands-on learning, especially when it comes to medical assisting. This way, students can gain real experience with the skills and knowledge needed to have a successful medical assisting career. Students have access to our labs, medical technology, instructors, and other resources to learn essential abilities.
How Much Does It Cost?
Costs for our vocational school can vary for each student. But generally, we ensure our tuition is affordable. We also offer student loan counseling and financial aid for students who need additional tuition assistance. If students need assistance with their financial aid or student loans, Pennco Tech has the resources to help them. Students can apply today to see if they are eligible.
Disclaimer: Financial aid is available only to those who qualify.
What Certifications Do Students Earn?
Although Pennco Tech teaches students the skills necessary to work in the field, this doesn’t mean they can begin working immediately following graduation. They first must pass an exam to earn certification. For our Bristol, PA, campus, students must take the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. For our Blackwood, NJ, campus, students must take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam. After passing these exams, students earn their certification to begin working in the medical industry.
Does the School Help With Job Placement?
Medical assisting and other jobs in the medical field are always in high demand, but this is especially true following the pandemic. This means there are a variety of job options for graduates to choose from, and it makes it easy to find the right job after graduation. Students also have access to our career services, which can assist students in finding internships and jobs during their schooling and post-graduation.
Can a Job as an Entry-Level Medical Assistant Lead to Other Careers?
Entry-level medical assistants can work in a variety of medical settings, like doctor’s offices, clinics, healthcare facilities, and hospitals. However, there is room to grow and advance. As medical assistants learn skills and techniques throughout their careers, this equips them with the knowledge to complete more advanced jobs with the potential for promotion. Those who start at an entry-level medical assistant position can eventually go on to be managers, leaders, instructors, or supervisors.
Contact Us at Pennco Tech Today
For students with additional questions, Pennco Tech is here to help. We have two campuses located in Bristol, PA, and Blackwood, NJ, offering students accessible and convenient means to further their education. To learn more about our Medical Assistant programs, contact us or apply online today.