Hands-On Medical Assistant Training for Your Future
Hands-On Medical Assistant Training for Your Future
Medical Assistant
Medical Assistant
Get the skills and training you need to become a vital part of the healthcare industry with American West College’s (AWC) Medical Assistant Diploma Program. Our program is designed to prepare you for real-world medical environments, equipping you with the expertise to assist with clinical procedures and effectively manage a medical office.
9Month Program
Real-life Medical Setting
Flexible Class Format
Training for Real-World Success
Choosing the right medical assistant program is essential to your success. At AWC, we focus on practical, hands-on learning to ensure you gain the skills needed to thrive in the healthcare field. You’ll train in a professional setting that mirrors real medical offices, preparing you to keep healthcare facilities running smoothly while providing top-tier patient care.
What You’ll Learn:
Accredited Program
AWC’s Medical Assistant program is accredited by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE).
Is the Medical Assistant Training Program Right for you?
Flexible Class Format to Fit Your Schedule
Our blended class format allows you to complete coursework online while attending in-person training just two days per week. Plus, our weekend class option is available at both locations, making it easier than ever to start your healthcare career.
Major Learning in Medical Assistant Program
Gain hands-on training in clinical and administrative healthcare skills to jump-start your career as a Medical Assistant.
Conduct Patient Exams & Tests
Record Vital Signs
Draw Blood
Manage an Office
Communicate Effectively
Conduct Patient Exams & Tests
Draw Blood
Communicate Effectively
Record Vital Signs
Manage an Office
Medical Assistant Course List
Learn more about what’s in store for you in the Medical Assistant diploma program. For more on medical assistant courses, visit the college catalog.
| Course Number | Title | Clock Hours | Clinical Hours | Quarter Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA100 | Medical Assistant Role and Responsibilities ‡ | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| MA200 | Office Procedures and Clinical Practices ‡ | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| MA300 | Medical Terminology/Transcription/ Patient Records ‡ | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| MA400 | Electrocardiogram and Laboratory Procedures ‡ | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| MA500 | Medical Office Business Procedures ‡ | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| MA600 | Clinical and Surgical Procedures ‡ | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| MA700 | Clinical Procedures and Pharmacology ‡ | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| EXT-MA | Externship § | 220 | 200 | 8.5 |
| Totals | 780 | 200 | 50.5 |
‡ Courses offered in a blended format, a combination of online and on ground.
§ Courses offered on ground.
TOTAL CREDIT HOURS: 50.5
Medical Assistant Program Overview
The Medical Assistant (MA) Program at American West College (AWC) is designed to provide you with the knowledge and hands-on training necessary to succeed in a medical office, clinic, health maintenance organization (HMO), or other healthcare setting. Medical assistants play a crucial role in supporting physicians and nurses while ensuring a positive patient experience.
By developing expertise in both administrative and clinical procedures, you will gain the confidence to perform key responsibilities, including:
✔ Preparing treatment rooms for patient examinations.
✔ Explaining treatment procedures, medications, and physician instructions to patients.
✔ Collecting blood, tissue, and other specimens for laboratory testing.
✔ Operating diagnostic equipment, such as electrocardiograms (EKGs), to administer routine tests.
✔ Managing office tasks, including greeting patients, answering phone calls, and processing insurance forms.¹
Hands-On Training for Real-World Success
AWC’s career-focused curriculum incorporates real-life medical scenarios, giving you the opportunity to train with industry-standard medical equipment. Additionally, the program includes a 200-hour clinical externship, allowing students to apply their skills in a real healthcare environment.
Prepare for Your Future in Healthcare
Upon completing the program, graduates will be ready to begin entry-level medical assistant careers, equipped with the skills needed to thrive in today’s healthcare industry.
Take the first step toward a rewarding healthcare career with AWC’s Medical Assistant Program!
The Info You Need — All in One Place
Download the Medical Assistant Diploma Program Brochure!
Looking for more information about what AWC’s Medical Assistant training program has to offer? Our brochure has important details about the program including:
- Program curriculum and course highlights
- Accreditation
- Enrollment requirements
- And more!
Download the brochure to explore everything that AWC’s Medical Assistant program has to offer and take the next step toward your future in healthcare.
MEDICAL ASSISTANT PROGRAM OFFERED
A Medical Assistant (MA) can work in various healthcare settings, performing both clinical and administrative tasks. Here are eight career opportunities for Medical Assistants
Join us for a virtual tour or schedule an appointment today.
Why Choose AWC?
Here’s why American West College is the perfect choice for your education and career success!
Comprehensive Hands-On Training
At American West College (AWC), our Medical Assistant (MA) Program provides the practical skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a medical office, clinic, or healthcare facility. Through hands-on training, students develop expertise in patient care, medical procedures, and administrative tasks, ensuring they are well-prepared for real-world healthcare environments.
Fast-Track Your Healthcare Career
At American West College (AWC), you can train to become a Medical Assistant in as little as 9 months. Our accelerated program provides hands-on training to prepare you for real-world medical settings, so you can enter the workforce quickly and confidently.
Real-World, Career-Focused Learning
Our career-driven curriculum is designed to equip students with the essential clinical and administrative skills required in today’s healthcare industry. You’ll gain hands-on experience in taking vital signs, assisting with medical procedures, performing EKGs, collecting lab samples, and managing medical office operations. Additionally, our program includes a 200-hour clinical externship, allowing you to apply your skills in a real healthcare setting.
Flexible and Supportive Learning Environment
We understand that balancing education with work and personal commitments can be challenging. That’s why AWC’s Medical Assistant Program offers a blended format, combining online coursework with just two days per week of on-campus training. Our small class sizes, experienced instructors, and dedicated student support services ensure that you receive the guidance and mentorship needed to succeed in your training and beyond.
Take the first step toward a rewarding healthcare career with a program that emphasizes practical skills, real-world experience, and career readiness—enroll in the Medical Assistant Program at AWC today!
Medical Assistant Gallery
Medical Assistant Gallery
FAQs
Frequently asked questions from the previous prospective students and their parents.
A Medical Assistant is a healthcare professional responsible for performing both administrative and clinical tasks in a medical office, clinic, or healthcare facility under the supervision of a physician.¹ They play a crucial role in ensuring efficient healthcare operations while enhancing the overall patient experience.
1California Employment Development Department, California Occupational Guides, Medical Assistants
Medical Assistant Program Curriculum Overview
The Medical Assistant Program at American West College (AWC) is structured into comprehensive learning modules designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed for success in healthcare.
Before advancing to the core modules, students must complete the Introduction to Healthcare course. The final step in the program is a 200-hour externship, where students gain real-world experience at a local healthcare facility.
Program Modules
✔ Introduction to Healthcare Professions
Gain an overview of healthcare careers, the history of medicine, medical ethics, professional behavior, and medical terminology essential for the field.
✔ Medical Assistant Roles and Responsibilities
Learn about legal and ethical responsibilities, sterile techniques, medical emergencies, first aid procedures, and effective communication in a professional healthcare setting.
✔ Office Procedures and Clinical Practices
Develop an understanding of the skeletal, muscular, digestive, and integumentary systems, along with hands-on training in patient care, physical examinations, and proper positioning techniques.
✔ Medical Terminology, Transcription & Patient Records
Master the use of medical dictionaries, terminology, and abbreviations, as well as how to accurately extract information from patient charts and complete insurance forms.
✔ Electrocardiogram (EKG) and Laboratory Procedures
Learn about the circulatory and respiratory systems, including heart and lung functions. Training includes EKG setup and interpretation, along with laboratory specimen collection.
✔ Medical Office Business Procedures
Develop skills in billing, insurance processing, scheduling appointments, and professional telephone communication, ensuring smooth administrative operations in healthcare facilities.
✔ Clinical and Surgical Procedures
Explore the neurosensory, endocrine, and reproductive systems, and receive hands-on training in assisting with minor surgical procedures and patient education.
✔ Medical Assistant Externship
Gain 200 hours of hands-on experience under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals, applying the skills learned throughout the program in a real medical setting.
For a detailed course description, please refer to the AWC Catalog.
Medical Assistant Program Curriculum Overview
The Medical Assistant Program at American West College (AWC) is structured into comprehensive learning modules designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed for success in healthcare.
Before advancing to the core modules, students must complete the Introduction to Healthcare course. The final step in the program is a 200-hour externship, where students gain real-world experience at a local healthcare facility.
Program Modules
✔ Introduction to Healthcare Professions
Gain an overview of healthcare careers, the history of medicine, medical ethics, professional behavior, and medical terminology essential for the field.
✔ Medical Assistant Roles and Responsibilities
Learn about legal and ethical responsibilities, sterile techniques, medical emergencies, first aid procedures, and effective communication in a professional healthcare setting.
✔ Office Procedures and Clinical Practices
Develop an understanding of the skeletal, muscular, digestive, and integumentary systems, along with hands-on training in patient care, physical examinations, and proper positioning techniques.
✔ Medical Terminology, Transcription & Patient Records
Master the use of medical dictionaries, terminology, and abbreviations, as well as how to accurately extract information from patient charts and complete insurance forms.
✔ Electrocardiogram (EKG) and Laboratory Procedures
Learn about the circulatory and respiratory systems, including heart and lung functions. Training includes EKG setup and interpretation, along with laboratory specimen collection.
✔ Medical Office Business Procedures
Develop skills in billing, insurance processing, scheduling appointments, and professional telephone communication, ensuring smooth administrative operations in healthcare facilities.
✔ Clinical and Surgical Procedures
Explore the neurosensory, endocrine, and reproductive systems, and receive hands-on training in assisting with minor surgical procedures and patient education.
✔ Medical Assistant Externship
Gain 200 hours of hands-on experience under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals, applying the skills learned throughout the program in a real medical setting.
For a detailed course description, please refer to the AWC Catalog.
Students can earn their diploma to become a medical assistant in as little as 9 months at AWC. The program features a blended format with 2 days in class and the rest online. Weekend classes are available at all two campuses: Los Angeles, and Anaheim.
You can apply to AWC online. To be eligible for admission into the Medical Assistant program, you will need to:
- Meet with an admissions advisor
- Show proof of high school graduation or a recognized equivalent
- Pass a standardized entrance exam
- Complete an enrollment agreement
- Pay a non-refundable application fee upon enrollment
For the full list of admission requirements, please visit the AWC Catalog.
Our admissions advisors and financial aid advisors are here to support you. They can help you figure out the Medical Assistant school cost and guide you as you explore financial aid options. Learn more about AWC’s Medical Assistant program tuition cost.
Yes, financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.
Yes! AWC’s Medical Assistant program includes a 220-hour externship which gives students the opportunity to demonstrate and reinforce the knowledge and skills they acquired learning hands-on throughout the training program.
Medical Assistant vs. Nurse: Key Differences
The primary differences between a Medical Assistant (MA) and a Registered Nurse (RN) lie in the level of patient care they provide and their licensure requirements.
- Medical Assistants are trained to handle both administrative and clinical tasks, such as scheduling appointments, managing billing, recording vital signs, and administering medications.¹ However, their scope of practice is more limited compared to nurses.
- Registered Nurses (RNs) have a broader role in patient care, including conducting comprehensive patient assessments, developing treatment plans, and administering more advanced medical procedures.²
Additionally, RNs must pass a licensure exam, while medical assistants in California are not required to be licensed.¹ ²
¹ Source: California Employment Development Department, California Occupational Guides, Medical Assistants
² Source: California Employment Development Department, California Occupational Guides, Registered Nurses
Students in our Medical Assistant Program will receive comprehensive training to perform essential duties that align with the standard responsibilities of medical assistants in California. These include:
✔ Scheduling patient appointments
✔ Managing office and lab supply inventory
✔ Preparing treatment rooms for patient examinations
✔ Conducting routine lab tests to assist with diagnostics
✔ Recording vital signs and medical histories accurately
✔ Educating patients on medications, treatment procedures, and physician instructions¹
Our program ensures that graduates are well-prepared for entry-level medical assistant roles, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in a professional healthcare setting.
¹ Source: California Employment Development Department, California Occupational Guides, Medical Assistants.
Do You Have What It Takes to Be a Great Medical Assistant?
If you enjoy working with people and have a natural ability to make others feel comfortable, a career as a Medical Assistant could be a great fit for you! Here are some of the top skills and qualities that make for a successful medical assistant:
✔ Active Listening – Medical assistants do more than just greet patients; they also collect important medical information. Strong listening skills help ensure accurate record-keeping and patient care.
✔ Critical Thinking – As an essential part of a healthcare team, medical assistants must efficiently manage office schedules, inventory, and daily tasks, requiring strong problem-solving skills.
✔ Service-Oriented Mindset – A great medical assistant has a genuine passion for helping patients and ensuring they receive the best care possible.
✔ Time Management – Medical assistants balance multiple responsibilities, from patient care to administrative duties, making time management a key skill.
✔ Strong Communication Skills – Clear and compassionate communication is essential when interacting with patients, explaining medical instructions, and assisting healthcare providers.
If these skills sound like you, then a Medical Assistant career might be the perfect path for your future!
Hands-On Training to Prepare You for Your Career
With over 200 hours of externship experience, you’ll be fully prepared to launch your career as a Medical Assistant.
With over 200 hours of externship experience, you’ll be fully prepared to launch your career as a Medical Assistant.
Our classes are designed to simulate real-life medical environments, utilizing the same equipment and proceduresyou’ll encounter in your first job. This hands-on training ensures you’ll feel confident and ready to step into your new role from day one!
“Before coming here, I felt lost, but this experience helped me rediscover my path and become the person I always knew I could be.”
– Tayler C. ’21
Hands-On Training to Prepare You for Your Career
How to Become a Medical Assistant in California
How to Become a Medical Assistant in California
Are you interested in entering into the field of healthcare? If so, you may want to consider pursuing a career as a medical assistant. This role gives you the opportunity to positively impact the patient experience while also boosting efficiency within a healthcare organization. Medical assistants provide both administrative and clinical support, which means they’re performing important office duties as well as assisting with the process of patient care.
Contact Us
Contact Us
If you prefer to contact over the phone, our team is available 5 days a week, 9 am-5 pm PT.
Call 1-800-800-8000
If you prefer to schedule over an email, send us an email.
contact@americanwestcollege.com
If you prefer to contact over the chat, our team can chat with you.
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