Medical Assisting A.A.S.

The Medical Assisting curriculum prepares multi-skilled healthcare professionals qualified to perform administrative, clinical, and laboratory procedures.

Coursework includes instruction in scheduling appointments, coding, and processing insurance accounts, billing, collections, medical transcription, and computer operations; assisting with examinations/treatments, performing routine laboratory procedures, electrocardiography, supervised medication administration; and ethical/legal issues associated with patient care.

Employment opportunities include physicians’ offices, health maintenance organizations, health departments, and hospitals.

The Associate Degree program in Medical Assisting is accredited by the Commission of Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). Program criteria are governed by the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). A student must be a graduate of a CAAHEP-accredited Medical Assisting program to be eligible to sit for the American Association of Medical Assistants’ certification examination to become a Certified Medical Assistant. Graduates from the diploma program will be eligible to sit for the certification exam when the program receives certification through CAAHEP.

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
9355 - 113th St. N, #7709
Seminole, FL 33775

Phone: (727) 210-2350
Fax: (727) 210-2354
Website: CAAHEP Website

Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB)
20 N. Wacker Dr., Ste. 1575
Chicago, IL 60606

Phone: (800) 228-2262
Website: MAERB Website

Specific Requirements

General college admission requirements.
1. Complete College application for admission
2. Complete the Medical Assisting application for the limited/capped program admission
This program has a limited admission process. See Selective Allied Health Program Criteria on the Selective and Limited Programs page of the A-B Tech website.
Complete College Placement Test.
High school units: Algebra and Biology are strongly recommended.
Students applying to the Medical Assisting program are encouraged to have successfully completed MED 116.
Acceptable reports of medical examinations by the first day of the second semester.
Satisfactory completion of required immunizations by the first day of the second semester.
Criminal background checks and drug screenings will be required prior to admissions to clinical sites that mandate the screenings.
Current Red Cross CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and Healthcare Provider certification by the first day of the fifth semester.

Courses requiring a grade of "C" or better: CIS, MED

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
ENG-111		3
This course is designed to develop the ability to produce clear writing in a variety of genres and formats using a recursive process. Emphasis includes inquiry, analysis, effective use of rhetorical strategies, thesis development, audience awareness, and revision. Upon completion, students should be able to produce unified, coherent, well-developed essays using standard written English. This is a Universal General Education Transfer Component (UGETC) course that satisfies English Composition. View course details for Writing and Inquiry ‌‌
MED-110		1
This course covers the history of medicine and the role of the medical assistant in the healthcare setting. Emphasis is placed on professionalism, communication, attitude, behaviors, and duties in the medical environment. Upon completion, students should be able to project a positive attitude and promote the profession of medical assisting. View course details for Orientation to Medical Assisting ‌‌
MED-116		4
This course introduces basic anatomy and physiology. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between body structure and function and the procedures common to health care. Upon completion, students should be able to identify body system components and functions relating this knowledge to the delivery of health care. View course details for Intro to A & P ‌‌
MED-118		2
This course covers 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. Upon completion, students should be able to meet the legal and ethical responsibilities of a multi-skilled health professional. View course details for Medical Law and Ethics ‌‌
MED-121		3
This course introduces prefixes, suffixes, and word roots used in the language of medicine. Topics include medical vocabulary and the terms that relate to the anatomy, physiology, pathological conditions, and treatment of selected systems. Upon completion, students should be able to pronounce, spell, and define medical terms as related to selected body systems and their pathological disorders. View course details for Medical Terminology I ‌‌
MED-130		1
This course introduces medical office administrative procedures. Topics include appointment processing, written and oral communications, medical records, patient orientation, and safety. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic administrative skills within the medical environment. View course details for Admin Office Procedures I ‌‌
MED-138		2
This course introduces the student to infection and hazard control procedures necessary for the healthcare worker. Topics include an introduction to microbiology, practical infection control, sterilization and monitoring, chemical disinfectants, aseptic technique, infectious diseases, OSH standards, and applicable North Carolina laws. Upon completion, students should be able to: understand infectious diseases, disease transmission, infection control procedures, biohazard management, OSH standards, and applicable North Carolina laws. View course details for Infection/Hazard Control ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
MED-122		3
This course is the second in a series of medical terminology courses. Topics include medical vocabulary and the terms that relate to the anatomy, physiology, pathological conditions, and treatment of selected systems. Upon completion, students should be able to pronounce, spell, and define medical terms as related to selected body systems and their pathological disorders. View course details for Medical Terminology II ‌‌
MED-131		2
This course provides medical office procedures in both economic and management skills. Topics include physical plant maintenance, equipment and supplies, liability coverage, medical economics, and introductory insurance procedures. Upon completion, students should be able to manage the economics of the medical office and supervise personnel. View course details for Admin Office Procedures II ‌‌
MED-140		5
This course provides instruction in clinical examining room procedures. Topics include asepsis, infection control, assisting with exams and treatment, patient education, preparation and administration of medications, EKG, vital signs, and medical emergencies. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence in exam room procedures. View course details for Exam Room Procedures I ‌‌
MED-182		2
This course provides the basic knowledge and skills necessary to perform basic CPR, first aid, and medical emergency care related to the clinical, home, office, and recreational setting. Emphasis is placed on triage, assessment, and proper management of emergency care. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate basic CPR, first aid, and medical emergency care. View course details for CPR First Aid & Emergency ‌‌
MED-272		3
This course focuses on major drug groups, including their side effects, interactions, methods of administration, and proper documentation. Emphasis is placed on the theory of drug administration. Upon completion, students should be able to identify, spell, recognize side effects of, and document the most commonly used medications in a physician’s office. View course details for Drug Therapy ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
CIS-110		3
This course introduces computer concepts, including fundamental functions and operations of the computer. Topics include the identification of hardware components, basic computer operations, security issues, and use of software applications. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the role and function of computers and use the computer to solve problems. Microsoft Office will be used in this course; this includes Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint. View course details for Introduction to Computers ‌‌
COM-120		3
This course introduces the practices and principles of interpersonal communication in both dyadic and group settings. Emphasis is placed on the communication process, perception, listening, self-disclosure, speech apprehension, ethics, nonverbal communication, conflict, power, and dysfunctional communication relationships. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate interpersonal communication skills, apply basic principles of group discussion, and manage conflict in interpersonal communication situations. View course details for Intro Interpersonal Communication ‌‌
MAT-110		3
This course provides an activity-based approach that develops measurement skills and mathematical literacy using technology to solve problems for non-math intensive programs. Topics include unit conversions and estimation within a variety of measurement systems; ratio and proportion; basic geometric concepts; financial literacy; and statistics including measures of central tendency, dispersion, and charting of data. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the use of mathematics and technology to solve practical problems and to analyze and communicate results. View course details for Math Measurement & Literacy ‌‌
MED-270		3
This course covers the study of disease symptoms and the appropriate actions taken by medical assistants in a medical facility in relation to these symptoms. Emphasis is placed on interviewing skills and appropriate triage, preparing patients for procedures, and screening test results. Upon completion, students should be able to recognize how certain symptoms relate to specific diseases, recognize emergency situations, and take appropriate actions. View course details for Symptomatology ‌‌
MED-274		3
This course introduces the basic principles of nutrition as they relate to health and disease. Topics include basic nutrients, physiology, dietary deficiencies, weight management, and therapeutic nutrition in wellness and disease. Upon completion, students should be able to interpret clinical and dietary data and provide patient counseling and education. View course details for Diet Therapy/Nutrition ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
MED-150		5
This course provides instruction in basic lab techniques used by the medical assistant. Topics include lab safety, quality control, collecting and processing specimens, performing selective tests, phlebotomy, screening and follow-up of test results, and OSHA/CLIA regulations. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic lab tests/skills based on course topics. View course details for Laboratory Procedures I ‌‌
MED-230		2
This course provides advanced medical office administrative procedures. Emphasis is placed on management skills including personnel supervision, practice management, public relations, and insurance coding. Upon completion, students should be able to exhibit advanced managerial medical assisting skills. View course details for Admin Office Proc III ‌‌
MED-240		5
This course is designed to expand and build upon skills presented in MED-140. Emphasis is placed on advanced exam room procedures. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate enhanced competence in selected exam room procedures. View course details for Exam Room Procedures II ‌‌
SPA-120		3
This course offers applied Spanish for the workplace to facilitate basic communication with people whose native language is Spanish. Emphasis is placed on oral communication and career-specific vocabulary that targets health, business, and/or public service professions. Upon completion, students should be able to communicate at a functional level with native speakers and demonstrate cultural sensitivity. View course details for Spanish for the Workplace ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
MED-260		5
This course provides the opportunity to apply clinical, laboratory, and administrative skills in a medical facility. Emphasis is placed on enhancing competence in clinical and administrative skills necessary for comprehensive patient care and strengthening professional communications and interactions. Upon completion, students should be able to function as an entry-level healthcare professional. View course details for MED Clinical Externship ‌‌
MED-262		1
This course is designed to explore the personal and occupational responsibilities of the practicing medical assistant. Emphasis is placed on problems encountered during externships and the development of problem-solving skills. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate courteous and diplomatic behavior when solving problems in the medical facility. View course details for Clinical Perspectives ‌‌
PSY-150		3
This course provides an overview of the scientific study of human behavior. Topics include history, methodology, biopsychology, sensation, perception, learning, motivation, cognition, abnormal behavior, personality theory, social psychology, and other relevant topics. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic knowledge of the science of psychology. This is a Universal General Education Transfer Component (UGETC) course that satisfies Social/Behavioral Sciences. View course details for General Psychology ‌‌
HUM-115		3
This course introduces the use of critical thinking skills in the context of human conflict. Emphasis is placed on evaluating information, problem-solving, approaching cross-cultural perspectives, and resolving controversies and dilemmas. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate orally and in writing the use of critical thinking skills in the analysis of appropriate texts. This course has been approved for transfer under the CAA as a general education course in Humanities/Fine Arts. View course details for Critical Thinking ‌‌

Total Credit Hours Required:

Curriculum is based on the 2024-2025 catalog.

Why General Education?

You may be asking yourself, “Why do I have to take (course name) when it is not directly related to my major?”

General Education courses will help you develop skills necessary to be successful in your major and in life. General Education can teach you how to talk to your employer, write a paper in a major course, understand interest rates on your car, and much more. General Education can also give you the skills to be a better member of society and a more informed citizen. Critical thinking, global understanding, and appreciation for the human experience are hallmarks of a well-rounded education.

How many hours of General Education do I have to take?

If you are enrolled in an Associate of Applied Science Degree program, a minimum of 15 general education hours are required in the following categories:

Six hours from Communication
Three hours from Humanities & Fine Arts
Three hours from Social & Behavioral Science
Three hours from Natural Science & Mathematics

General Education courses have been pre-selected for you by your faculty from the following list:

Communication	Humanities & Fine Arts	Social & Behavioral Science	Natural Science & Mathematics
COM-110	ART-111	ECO-251	BIO-161
COM-120	ART-114	ECO-252	BIO-163
COM-231	ART-115	HIS-111	BIO-168
ENG-110	HUM-110	HIS-112	MAT-110
ENG-111	HUM-115	HIS-131	MAT-121
ENG-112	MUS-110	HIS-132	MAT-143
ENG-114	MUS-112	POL-120	MAT-152
	PHI-215	PSY-150	MAT-171
	PHI-240	SOC-210	PHY-110/110A
		SOC-225	PHY-121

Degrees designed to transfer to universities require more general education hours. If you are enrolled in the Associate in Arts or Associate in Science, you are required to take 45 hours of General Education from the following categories:

Six hours in English Composition
Six to nine hours in Communication/Humanities & Fine Arts
Six to nine hours in Social & Behavioral Sciences
Three to eight hours in Mathematics
Four to eight hours in Natural Sciences
11 to 14 additional General Education hours

If you are enrolled in the Associate in Engineering, you are required to take 42 general education hours from the following:

Six hours in English Composition
Six hours in Communication/Humanities & Fine Arts
Six work hours in Social & Behavioral Sciences
12 hours in Mathematics
12 hours in Natural Sciences

If you are enrolled in the Associate in Fine Arts in Visual Arts, you are required to take 25 general education hours from the following:

Six hours in English Composition
Six hours in Communication/Humanities & Fine Arts
Six hours in Social & Behavioral Sciences
Three to four hours in Mathematics
Four hours in Natural Sciences

Additional information about General Education for transfer degrees, including courses that satisfy each category, may be found in the current College Catalog.

What will I learn in General Education?

At A-B Tech, our faculty have designed a general education core so that A-B Tech graduates will learn the following:

Students will critically evaluate information:

Students will demonstrate information literacy.
Students will critique works of human expression.
Students will analyze scientific literature.

Students will solve problems:

Students will identify processes.
Students will analyze problems.
Students will interpret the results.
Students will recommend appropriate strategies or solutions.

Students will effectively communicate.

Students will communicate appropriately about the subject.
Students will communicate appropriately with the audience.
Students will communicate appropriately for the medium.

Ever wonder how A-B Tech awards credit for a certain course?

A-B Tech complies with the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges Code, so your courses are assigned the course level and receive the same amount of credit as courses at all 58 North Carolina Community Colleges.

If you want to read more about this, see the A-B Tech Policy and Procedure for the Assignment of Course Level Credit.