Medical Assisting, AAS

The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting prepares the student to take the American Medical Technologists (AMT) certification exam for Medical Assistants (MA). This certification is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The medical assistant is an integral member of the health care delivery team, qualified by education and experience to perform administrative, clinical, and laboratory roles. The medical assistant often acts as a liaison between the doctor and the patient and is of vital importance to the success of the medical practice. The primary difference between the degree program and the certificate program is the number of general education courses required by the Medical Assisting, AAS, with the AAS degree providing a more well-rounded education and course work that is transferrable to the four-year university. For more information regarding the Medical Assisting, AAS, see the Medical Assisting webpage.

Note: The AMT issues national certification and maintains a registry of its certificate holders. This certification requires a minimum of 720 clock hours (or equivalent) of training in Medical Assisting skills (including a clinical externship). Requirements for Graduation: Passing all Medical Assisting and General Education courses for the AAS degree with a “C” grade or better. For a course to be eligible for transfer, the student must receive a “C” or better. Acceptance of a transfer course is determined by the receiving institution.