Metropolitan Community College (MCC) offers a fully online Clinical Medical Assistant program through Ed2Go, designed for students who need flexibility. At a total cost of $2,795, it takes approximately 12 months to complete. The program consists of 540 course hours and provides all the essential skills for a medical assistant career, including clinical, administrative, and technical training. Graduates are prepared to take the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam, and the exam fee is already covered by tuition.
Program Overview
MCC’s Clinical Medical Assistant training is entirely online and self-paced, which is ideal for students who need to balance their studies with personal or professional obligations. You have up to one year to complete the coursework at your convenience. The program totals 540 hours, covering a wide range of topics, from basic patient care to more advanced procedures such as administering injections and drawing blood.
This program emphasizes real-world applicability, using virtual labs, interactive materials, and detailed course modules. Topics covered include medical terminology, medical law and ethics, medical record-keeping, patient interaction, basic clinical procedures, and lab techniques.
Learning and Course Content
Students enrolled in this course gain practical knowledge and develop skills in several key areas necessary for employment in medical settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Training includes:
- Medical Terminology: Comprehensive training in medical terms, anatomy, and physiology, ensuring clear communication in a medical environment.
- Clinical Skills: Hands-on preparation through simulations and virtual practice in tasks such as taking vital signs, assisting physicians, and performing minor procedures.
- Administrative Skills: Managing medical records, scheduling, coding, billing, and insurance processing.
- Phlebotomy and EKG Training: Instruction on blood specimen collection, processing, and understanding cardiac testing methods.
- HIPAA Compliance and Ethics: Education on confidentiality and ethical patient care practices.
The course structure allows students who have prior knowledge in medical terminology to “test-out” certain sections, potentially shortening the coursework.
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Certification Preparation and Clinical Experience
Upon finishing the program, students can sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The exam voucher cost is included in the tuition fee. Obtaining this certification significantly improves employment prospects and earning potential.The program also offers the opportunity to earn a CPR certification and complete an optional unpaid clinical experience. While placement isn’t guaranteed, MCC provides support and resources to help students find suitable clinical sites.
Admissions Requirements
The good news is that this program doesn’t have complicated prerequisites. Here are the requirements clearly listed out:
- High school diploma or equivalent (only required to take the CCMA certification exam)
- Computer, laptop, or Chromebook with reliable internet
- Access to email and basic software like Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat
- Course-specific textbooks provided by MCC after enrollment
Course Instructors
The MCC online Clinical Medical Assistant program is taught by experienced healthcare professionals who have extensive real-world experience and educational expertise:
- Tammy Stanson: Over two decades of experience in medical assisting, specifically in clinical settings and teaching roles. Certified Medical Assistant and highly experienced educator.
- Nancy Smith: With over 30 years in healthcare, Nancy has worked extensively in medical offices, coding, claims management, and office management.
- Hilary Khouri: Brings a decade of experience in medical administrative roles and specializes in medical records auditing, billing, and coding.
Each instructor is deeply knowledgeable, ensuring students get practical, relevant training for real-world healthcare settings.
Cost and Financial Options
At $2,795, this is an affordable program compared to many others in the area. MCC also offers financial flexibility with monthly payment options through Affirm, as low as $136 per month.
While the course is not eligible for federal student aid, some students might qualify for funding from local workforce development programs or similar sources, making this a feasible choice for students on tighter budgets.
Job Outlook and Career Prospects
Medical assisting is a rapidly growing field, projected to expand significantly over the next decade. Graduates can expect numerous job opportunities, especially those holding the CCMA certification, as more healthcare facilities require certified staff.
Typical duties for clinical medical assistants include:
- Patient intake and recording medical histories
- Taking vital signs
- Assisting with medical procedures and examinations
- Performing laboratory tasks and specimen handling
- Medication administration under supervision
- Administrative responsibilities like scheduling and billing
According to recent data, certified clinical medical assistants can earn an average annual salary of approximately $43,464 nationally, with strong job growth anticipated through the next decade.
Flexibility and Support
The self-paced, online format of MCC’s medical assistant program makes it perfect for students who require maximum flexibility due to other responsibilities such as family commitments or employment. Students have 24/7 access to course materials, allowing learning to fit around their schedules.
Additionally, students receive comprehensive support, including access to faculty, student advisors, technical support, and virtual tutoring if needed. MCC provides all necessary instructional materials upon enrollment.
Unique Considerations
Before enrolling, students should be aware:
- Clinical placements are not guaranteed. Although MCC assists students in securing placements, students must proactively fulfill clinical requirements.
- Students in Washington state may face additional requirements for employment certification. Therefore, students should confirm state-specific details before enrolling.
- The program doesn’t qualify for federal financial aid, which might be a factor for some students needing financial assistance.
Who Should Consider This School?
Metropolitan Community College’s online Clinical Medical Assistant program is ideal for students seeking an affordable, flexible route into medical assisting. It’s particularly suited for self-motivated learners who appreciate online convenience, clear structure, and straightforward progression. However, students must be comfortable with managing their study time effectively, as the self-paced structure requires personal discipline. If you’re looking for direct entry into medical assisting, clear career guidance, and a practical, streamlined curriculum, this MCC course offers significant value and support.
| Category | Details |
| Cost: | $2,795 (includes CCMA exam voucher) |
| Duration: | 12 months (self-paced) |
| Class Schedules: | Online, open enrollment |
| Online Classes?: | Yes |
| Requirements: | High school diploma or equivalent (for CCMA exam), computer with internet access, software (Microsoft Word, Adobe Reader), email account |
| Address: | 3200 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64111 |
| Phone: | (816) 604-1000 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| Website: | https://mcckc.edu/continuing-education/healthcare.aspx |
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