Collin College Medical Assisting Programs

Collin College offers a Medical Assisting Program designed for individuals ready to start a versatile and rewarding career in healthcare. With two pathways available—a Level 1 Certificate (10 months) or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Medical Assisting (2 years)—students can choose a timeline and depth of education that fits their career goals. Both programs are structured to provide the skills needed to handle clinical, administrative, and diagnostic tasks in healthcare facilities.

The program features a mix of classroom instruction, lab training, and real-world clinical experience, including a 160-hour externship. With flexible day, evening, and weekend classes offered across campuses in Plano, Allen, Wylie, and Farmersville, this program is designed to accommodate different schedules. The program also boasts impressive outcomes, with a 100% job placement rate and RMA certification pass rate for 2021-2022 graduates.

This accelerated option focuses on preparing students for entry-level positions as medical assistants. Coursework includes phlebotomy, EKGs, vital signs, medical billing, and coding, and students gain experience in real-world clinical settings. The program also prepares students for multiple certifications, including RMA (Registered Medical Assistant), Phlebotomy Technician, and EKG Technician.

The Associate degree offers a more in-depth exploration of medical assisting. Students build on their certificate training with advanced coursework, often completed online, to further develop administrative and clinical expertise. This path is ideal for students aiming to expand their career opportunities and qualify for higher-level positions.

The curriculum includes practical and theoretical instruction to prepare students for diverse roles in healthcare. Topics covered include:

• Clinical Skills: Phlebotomy, EKGs, diagnostic testing, injections, and patient preparation.
• Administrative Skills: Scheduling, billing, insurance processing, and electronic health record management.
• Medical Knowledge: Anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and medical law and ethics.

Students also gain hands-on lab training and complete a 160-hour externship, ensuring they are job-ready upon graduation.

• Be at least 17 years old.
• Have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Complete a drug test and criminal background check.
• Provide proof of immunizations, including Hepatitis B, MMR, and annual flu shots.
• Carry personal health insurance for clinical rotations.

Applicants must also submit a program application with four essay questions and participate in an interview. Admission is competitive due to limited seats.

A crucial component of the program is the 160-hour clinical externship, where students work in local healthcare settings, gaining hands-on experience under professional supervision. This real-world training helps students transition smoothly into the workforce and increases job readiness.

The program is designed to be affordable, with estimated costs as follows:

• Certificate Program Tuition: $2,077
• Textbooks: $250
• Scrubs: $50
• Certification Exams: $565 (if all exams are taken) Additional costs include background checks, lab fees, and an immunization tracker.