Medical Assisting - Associate in Applied Science

Healthcare Pathway

91 Credits   |   8 Quarters

Pathway at a Glance

You understand the importance of health and peace of mind—whether you're tending to a patient, studying diseases, providing dietary counsel, or documenting important medical information, our Healthcare Pathway will set you on a course to making a difference every day.

 

Pathway Map (PDF)

Courses by Quarter
Entry Requirements
It is strongly recommended that the student complete all pre-college English and Math (if indicated on college placement test), General Education, Diversity and Elective Requirements prior to starting the Core Medical Assistant Requirements. It is recommended that students schedule an appointment with program faculty to discuss progression in the program once they reach ENGL& 101 and MATH 092 eligibility or completion.
Quarter Plan: 
Quarter 1

Transition Studies Students have several options for their starting point. Some students may start in our Transition Studies programs: Adult Basic Education, English as a Second Language, Digital Literacy, and High School+.

 

Quarter 2

Choose One:

MATH092 Mathematical Reasoning 5 Credits Search Schedule
Introduces operations with rational numbers, applications and problem solving skills, expressions, solving linear equations, and graphing linear relationships. Prerequisite: Qualifying placement for MATH 092 or ABE 065 or an "S" in ABE 064.
-OR-
ABE065 Contextualized Math II Search Schedule
Introduces operations with rational numbers, applications and problem solving skills, expressions, solving linear equations, and graphing linear relationships through direct instruction and contextualized application. Prepares students for high school completion, employment, or MATH& 107/MATH& 146 with concurrent MATH 096 enrollment. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement or an "S" in ABE 064 or a "U, P, V, W" in ABE 065.

Note – MATH 092 only needed if a student will take BUS 104 or CMATH 107/MATH& 107

ENGL090 Integrated Reading and Writing I 5 Credits Search Schedule
Introduces students to college-level reading and writing. Focuses on reading strategies, critical thinking, and writing unified paragraphs. ENGL 090 classes are combined with ENGL 095 classes, and students who demonstrate ENGL 095 proficiency may earn ENGL 095 credit. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement based on Reading & English CPT scores or transition test.
-OR-
ENGL095 Integrated Reading and Writing II 5 Credits Search Schedule
Prepares students for entry into college-level writing courses. Focuses on reading analytically, thinking critically, and writing coherent, well-supported texts. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement based on Reading & English CPT scores or transition test.

OFTEC108 Introduction to Microsoft Office 3 Credits Search Schedule
Introduces the software components of Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access. Prerequisite: None.

CCS101 Pathways to Success 3 Credits Search Schedule
Cultivates the mind-set and skills necessary for students to become confident, reflective, self-directing, and successful learners. Prerequisite: Eligible for ENGL 090 or higher.

 

 

Quarter 3

Choose One:
(Computation)
​

MATH101 Technical Mathematics I 5 Credits Search Schedule
Covers the theories and applications of mathematics used in technical fields with emphasis on problem solving strategies, measurement, algebra, geometry, unit conversions and the metric system. Prerequisite: Eligible for MATH 092.
Distribution: AAS, AAS-COMPUTATION
-OR-
BUS104 Business Math 5 Credits Search Schedule
Emphasizes solving practical problems in business, including percentages, payroll, simple and compound interest, annuities, discounts, and markups using a calculator. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement or a "C" or better in MATH 092 or an "S" in ABE 065.
Distribution: AAS, AAS-COMPUTATION
-OR-
CMATH107 CLIPPERS Math in Society 5 Credits Search Schedule
Accelerated course that gives students the opportunity to complete MATH 095 and MATH& 107 in one quarter. Explores a variety of mathematical topics presenting mathematics as an art in its own right and as a tool for understanding the world around us. Specific topics may be drawn from geometry, number theory, set theory, and the history of mathematics. Students will earn credit for either MATH 095 or MATH& 107 at the conclusion of the course. Designed for non-science majors. CLIPPERS courses combine the prerequisite course with the college-level course. These classes are taught in a computer lab with a focus on in-class activities and video-based instruction. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement or a "C" or better in MATH 092 or an "S" in ABE 065.

*CMATH 107 

Includes ability to complete:
MATH 095 Intermediate Algebra Essentials
MATH& 107 Math in Society
*some students may place directly into MATH& 107

ENGL098 Transitional English Composition 5 Credits Search Schedule
Introduces strategies and techniques writers use to convey ideas and participate in multiple discourse communities. Focuses on both the process and product of composing. English 098 classes are combined with English 101 classes, and students who demonstrate English 101 proficiency may earn ENGL& 101 credit. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement OR a "C" or better in ENGL 095.
-OR-
ENGL&101 English Composition I 5 Credits Search Schedule
Develops strategies and techniques writers use to convey ideas and participate in multiple discourse communities. Focuses on both the process and product of composing. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement OR a "B-" or better in ENGL 095 OR a "C" or better in ENGL 098.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, COMMUNICATION, GER-CIS, AA-AAS-T-COMMUNICATION, AAS-COMMUNICATION: Reading/Writing, AAS-READING-WRITING

OFTEC136 Microsoft Word I 5 Credits Search Schedule
Prepares students to use the features of Microsoft Word software to create a variety of documents for business or personal use. The ability to type at least 25 words per minute (wpm) is recommended. Prerequisite: OFTEC 100 or OFTEC 108.

 

 

Quarter 4

MED103 Medical Terminology I 3 Credits Search Schedule
Explores medical terminology by combining word roots, suffixes, and prefixes. Emphasizes definitions, pronunciation, spelling, and usage in a variety of health care professions. Prerequisite: None.

Choose One 5 credit course Medical Assisting-Human Relations/Diversity:

Choose One 5 credit course Medical Assisting-Human Relations/Diversity:

BUS260 Principles of Management: Diversity 5 Credits
Describes the functions of management with an emphasis on current management issues, including the impact of diversity in the workplace. Prerequisite: BUS& 101.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, DIVERSITY, AAS-HUMAN RELATIONS
HUM121 Multicultural America: Diversity 5 Credits
Explores the history, cultures, and contributions of various race and ethnic groups in the United States and the complex notion of an "American" identity throughout U.S. history. Emphasizes the impacts of power, privilege, and socialization on our understanding of race and ethnicity in the American context. Prerequisite: Eligible for ENGL 098 or ENGL& 101.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, DIVERSITY, HUMANITIES, NURSING HUMANITIES, AAS-HUMAN RELATIONS, AA-AAS-T-HUMANITIES, HUMANITIES-CULTURAL-4QTR, HUMANITIES-CULTURAL-5QTR, FPA-Hum-Qtr 6-7-8
PSYC116 Psychology of Human Relations: Diversity 5 Credits
Introduces students to the psychology of human relationships. Examines how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors impact communication in a multicultural world. Prerequisite: Eligible for ENGL 098 or ENGL& 101.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, DIVERSITY, SOCIAL SCIENCE, NURSING SOCIAL SCIENCE, AAS-HUMAN RELATIONS, AA-AAS-T-SOCIAL SCIENCE, SOC-SCIENCE-CULTURAL, FPA-SocSci-Qtr 5-6-8

Choose One 5 credit course Medical Assisting-Additional Communication:

Choose One 5 credit course Medical Assisting-Additional Communication:

CMST&210 Interpersonal Communication: Diversity 5 Credits
Focuses on understanding and developing interpersonal communication skills needed to build and maintain healthy one-on-one relationships in both personal and professional contexts. Examines how diverse communication styles can impact relationships. Prerequisite: None.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, DIVERSITY, AAS-SPEAKING-LISTENING, AA-AAS-T-HUMANITIES, AAS-ADDITIONAL COMMUNICATION, AAS-HUMAN RELATIONS
CMST&220 Public Speaking 5 Credits
Introduction to oral communication theory and to public speaking/listening practice as applied to a variety of settings and audiences. Students will learn to verbally inform and/or demonstrate and persuade an audience using a variety of speech types. Covers speech preparation, critical listening and thinking, and individual and group presentation techniques. This course was formerly known as SPCH 101, Introduction to Public Speaking. Prerequisite: None.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, AAS-SPEAKING-LISTENING, AA-AAS-T-COMMUNICATION, AAS-ADDITIONAL COMMUNICATION, FPA-Elective-HUM-Qtr 3-4, FPA-Elective-Qtr 5
CMST&230 Small Group Communication: Diversity 5 Credits
Introduces small group communication theories and concepts with applications. Explores the communication processes used when people enter diverse organizational contexts or interact in professional and everyday life small groups. Prerequisite: None.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, AAS-SPEAKING-LISTENING, AAS-HUMAN RELATIONS, GER-CIS, AA-AAS-T-HUMANITIES, AAS-ADDITIONAL COMMUNICATION, DIVERSITY
CMST240 Intercultural Communication: Diversity 5 Credits
Introduces intercultural communication theories and concepts with applications. Explores the communication processes when people enter new cultural context or interact with people who have different cultural identities. Prerequisite: Eligible for ENGL 098 or ENGL& 101 or instructor's permission.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, DIVERSITY, HUMANITIES, NURSING HUMANITIES, AAS-SPEAKING-LISTENING, AAS-HUMAN RELATIONS, AA-AAS-T-HUMANITIES, AAS-ADDITIONAL COMMUNICATION, HUMANITIES-CULTURAL-5QTR, HUM-CULTURAL-ELECTIVE-6QTR, HUM-CULTURAL-ELECTIVE-8QTR, FPA-Hum-Qtr 6-7-8

 

Quarter 5

Program Classes Begin: Fall Quarter Only

MED104 Medical Terminology II 5 Credits Search Schedule
Builds on foundations of combining forms, prefixes, and suffixes learned in MED 103 with a more advanced study of basic human anatomy and physiology. Prerequisite: MED 103 with a "C" of better.
MED150 Medical Office Exposure Control Medical Assistan 4 Credits Search Schedule
Provides knowledge and skill development for upholding clinical procedural safety standards. Develops standard precaution skills to assure minimal exposure for the patient and healthcare worker. Prerequisite: Interview with medical assisting faculty mentor prior to entry. Concurrent enrollment with MED 151. Completion of general education/electives and CCS 101, OFTEC 108, OFTEC 136, and MED 103.

MED151 Medical Administrative Procedures 5 Credits Search Schedule
Covers theory and skills related to the administrative procedures performed in an ambulatory health care setting. Introduces an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) simulation. Prerequisite: Completion of general education/electives and CCS 101, OFTEC 108, OFTEC 136, and MED 103.

 

Quarter 6

Winter Quarter Only

MED152 Disease Conditions and Treatment 4 Credits Search Schedule
Introduces disease processes, prevention, and health promotion throughout the body and life span. Prerequisite: Completion of 1st quarter MED courses with a "C" or better.
MED153 Medical Assisting Externship Seminar 1 Credit Search Schedule
Prepares students for externship and workplace readiness. Prerequisite: Completion of 1st quarter MED courses with a "C" or better.
MED154 Clinical Procedures for Medical Assistants 4 Credits Search Schedule
Covers theory and skills used in ambulatory care settings to assist providers with routine and specialty examinations and treatments. Includes clinical documentation within an Electronic Medical Record (EMR). Prerequisite: Completion of 1st quarter MED courses with a "C" or better.
MED157 Coding for the Medical Assistant 5 Credits Search Schedule
Focuses on the translation of patient health information into Current Procedural Terminology (CPT), Diagnosis Coding systems, and Healthcare Common Procedure Coding systems (HCPCS). Emphasizes application of rules, guidelines, and medical necessity. Prerequisite: Completion of 2nd quarter MED courses, including MED 104, with a "C" or better.

Quarter 7

Spring Quarter Only

MED155 Diagnostic Procedures for Medical Assistants 4 Credits Search Schedule
Covers theory and clinical skill development for the Medical Assistant working within the medical office laboratory. Prerequisite: Completion of 2nd quarter MED courses with a "C" or better.
MED158 Law,Ethics,Professionalism for Medical Assistant 5 Credits Search Schedule
Introduces legal, ethical, and soft-skill topics essential for safe practice as a medical assistant. Prerequisite: Completion of 2nd quarter MED courses with a "C" or better.
MED156 Pharmacology for Medical Assistants 3 Credits Search Schedule
Introduces the classifications of drugs including indications for use, desired effects, side effects, and adverse reactions. Applies mathematical computations to solve equations, convert amongst measurement systems, and calculate proper dosages of medication for administration. Prerequisite: Completion of 2nd quarter MED courses with a "C" or better.
MED160 Medical Assisting National Exam Preparation 1 Credit Search Schedule
Reviews medical assisting curriculum with an emphasis on administrative and clinical knowledge. This course focuses on competence in the cognitive areas covered on the American Association of Medical Assistants National Certification Exam, preparatory to taking that examination. Prerequisite: Successful completion of 2nd quarter MED courses.

Quarter 8

Summer Quarter Only

MED159 Externship for Medical Assistants 6 Credits Search Schedule
Provides students hands-on learning with supervision at ambulatory care facilities. Students apply the affective and psychomotor competencies appropriate to the scope of practice for medical assistants in a workplace setting. Prerequisite: Completion of all MED courses with "C" or better; completion of all on-boarding requirements by specified due date.

Print Pathway Map
Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Medical Assisting Degree, students will be able to:

  • Evaluate self-improvement while mastering clinical and administrative skills
  • Measure, record, interpret, and report data in both clinical and office settings
  • Adjust communications techniques to interact effectively with colleagues and patients who have diverse backgrounds, expectations, and needs
  • Incorporate legal, ethical and professional considerations into delivery of healthcare
  • Perform the duties of an entry level medical assistant in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor, (skills) and affective (behavior) domains
Helpful Notes

Program Costs

Dollar values are approximate and subject to change

Hepatitis B, MMR, DTap immunization, Varicella and Influenza vaccinations  

$350

Tuberculosis clearance

$100

Malpractice and general liability insurance

$18

Lab fees

$80

Name tag

$10

Uniforms, shoes and equipment

$250

Textbook and supplies

$800

Provider-level CPR certification

$60

National certification exam

$165

Washington State Patrol background check

$12

7 hour online HIV training

$35

Clinical Placements Northwest (externship)

$75

Certification

Upon successful completion of the Associate in Applied Science degree in Medical Assisting, graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam offered through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Upon satisfactory completion of the exam, they will be qualified to use the credentials of Certified Medical Assistant CMA, (AAMA). The CMA credential is recognized nationally; however, each state mandates the scope of practice for Medical Assistants. 

 

Program Outcomes

In accordance with the Medical Assisting Education Review Board, the program goal is to prepare competent entry-level medical assistants in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor, (skills) and affective (behavior) learning domains.

CAAHEP requires all Medical Assisting Programs to make public measurable program outcomes. In compliance with this rule, South Puget Sound Community College is publishing outcome data for 2018:

  • Retention 2018: 83.33%
  • Job Placement 2018: 78.57%
  • Exam Passage 2018: 82.14%
  • Employer Satisfaction 2018: 100%
  • Graduate Satisfaction 2018: 100%

Program Requirements

  • Proof of Hepatitis B vaccination series and titer required prior to the start of MED 155
  • MED courses must be completed within 5 years of completion of the program. Any MED courses taken prior to five years of completion would need to be repeated
  • Students must provide proof of current provider-level CPR certification through the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association prior to beginning their externship (MED 159)
  • Students are required to pass a Washington State Patrol Background check
  • Keyboarding skills of 45 wpm are required prior to graduation 

Grading Policy

  • All MED courses must be completed with a “C" or better to continue in and complete the program. A “C” for all MED courses represents a grade of 76%- 85%; a “B” is 86%-92% and an “A” is 93%-100%.  Any MED course with a grade below 76% would need to be repeated.
  • In addition, medical assisting students must complete all cognitive objectives and all psychomotor and affective competencies in the course. CAAHEP accreditation requires 100% of all medical assisting graduates pass 100% of all psychomotor and affective competencies. A passing score for psychomotor and affective competencies is equivalent to 85% or above. The student will be given up to two opportunities to demonstrate achievement of competency for each procedure required for the course. All competencies must be successfully completed by the date indicated on the class schedule in order to progress in the Medical Assisting Program. 

 

Health and Safety

Prior to the beginning of their second quarter in the program, students registered in the Medical Assisting Program are required to have started the Hepatitis B vaccination series. Documentation for this requirement must be presented by the first day of class of the second quarter of the program.

 

Practicum

The capstone course is the student practicum (MED 159).  All cognitive objectives and psychomotor and affective competencies must be completed prior to the practicum.  It is highly recommended that all required coursework for the AAS degree be completed prior to the start of the practicum.  The practicum allows the opportunity to use your administrative and clinical skills under the guidance of a mentor in an ambulatory healthcare setting.  The practicum is a 198-hour non-remunerative arrangement.

 

Entry into the Medical Assisting Program does not guarantee students a job placement, nor does it guarantee a practicum placement in Thurston County. Practicum placements require successful interviews and background checks.  Due to increased competition for practicum placements with other schools in Washington State, South Puget Sound Community College cannot guarantee that the practicum will be in the last quarter of the program.

Accreditation

The SPSCC Medical Assisting Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), 9355-113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775, (727) 210-2350, http://www.caahep.org/, on recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB), http://maerb.org.

Revision Date: 
Wednesday, April 14, 2021