The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Medical Assistant prepares students in the first year of the curriculum to perform initial clerical and administrative duties in medical, clinical, hospitals, and other medical facilities. The student will be prepared to schedule and receive patients, obtain patient data, receive payment, maintain medical records, data processing, perform general office skills, operate office equipment, and assume medical office responsibilities.

The second year adds skills in pharmacology, phlebotomy, and clinical skills with emphasis on the role of the medical assistant as an integral member of the medical care delivery team. This includes performing patient intake, medication documentation, routine diagnostics and recording procedures, pre-examination and examination assistance, preparing and administering medications, and first aid.  Students are instructed in basic anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, medical law and ethics, patient psychology and communication, medical office procedures, clinical diagnostic examination, testing and treatment procedures.

Three different career pathways can lead to the AAS Medical Assistant. To see how this program links to others in the Pathway click here.

Entry Requirements

This is a restricted-entry program and students must submit a separate application along with their college admission application. For more information contact the administrative assistant, Sumner Hall, Rm 4 541-888-7443 or the director at 541-888-7298. Click here to view more information about the Nursing & Allied Health program.

Students are required to complete the College's placement process to determine skill level and readiness in math, reading and writing. As part of their training program, students must begin with the courses within their skill level as determined by the placement process.

Due to the nature of this curriculum and the access to drugs, all students will have to declare themselves “drug free” and be subject to a criminal background check. Any student who is unable, for any reason, to complete the practice parts of this curriculum will not be able to continue in the program. Drug testing will be done prior to clinical practice. Graduates may choose to take a national certification examination at the successful conclusion of the program.

Graduation Requirements

Students must complete a minimum of 90 credit hours with a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 or better. All courses must be completed with a grade of ‘C’ or better. Twenty-four (24) credits must be completed at Southwestern before the AAS Medical Assistant degree is awarded.

Complete the graduation application process one term prior to the term of completion (e.g., spring term graduates must apply during winter term).

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate general knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and medical law and ethics.
• Demonstrate proficiency in medical office administrative practices.
• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of clinical practice.

Award Map

Pre-Program Courses

Students are required to take the following courses prior to the program courses, depending on students' college placement information. See advisor for details:

Program Guide