Dallas College Medical Assisting Program

If you’re looking for a career in healthcare and prefer working in a dynamic environment, Dallas College’s Medical Assisting Program might be the right fit. This 13-month certificate program prepares students for a variety of responsibilities in medical offices and acute care settings, combining classroom learning, hands-on experience, and clinical training. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and offers pathways to professional credentials such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).

The program is recognized for its rigorous standards and accreditation by CAAHEP, ensuring students receive quality training aligned with industry expectations. Graduates are eligible to sit for certification exams, boosting their employability in the healthcare field.

The first semester is entirely online, allowing students to balance initial coursework with other responsibilities. However, subsequent semesters involve on-campus labs and clinical training, providing hands-on learning essential for a medical assisting career.

For Dallas County residents, the program costs approximately $4,678, while out-of-county and out-of-state residents pay $7,478 and $10,718, respectively. This fee covers tuition and textbooks, making it a cost-effective choice for those pursuing a career in healthcare. The program takes 13 months to complete, including four semesters of coursework and clinical externship.

Prerequisite Courses
Before applying, students must complete two courses with a minimum grade of “C”:

• ENGL 1301: Composition I
• SPCH 1311/1315/1321: Speech Communication (options include Public Speaking and Business Communication)

Core Program Structure
The curriculum is divided into four semesters:

1. Semester I (Fall): Online courses covering medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and medical law and ethics.
2. Semester II (Spring): In-depth focus on medical insurance, administrative procedures, clinical practices, and pharmacology.
3. Semester III (Summer): Advanced topics in medical assisting and lab procedures.

Semester IV (Final Fall): A 160-hour clinical externship and an exam review course to prepare for certification exams.

The program culminates in a clinical externship where students work in real-world healthcare settings such as clinics and physician offices. This hands-on experience is vital for developing skills like patient care, lab procedures, and administrative tasks. Students must meet specific requirements, including immunizations, a physical exam, and Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR certification, to participate.

Admission to the Medical Assisting Program is competitive and based on a point-ranking system. Applicants are evaluated on:

• Prerequisite GPA (up to 10 points)
• Completion of support courses (6 points)
• Submission of required health records and certifications (2 points)
• Membership in Phi Theta Kappa (2 points)

Key Steps to Apply:

1. Complete an online information session.
2. Submit official transcripts from all colleges attended.
3. Meet immunization and physical exam requirements through SurPath, the college’s digital records system.
4. Upload all required application materials, including a high school diploma or GED, via a secure link.
5. Ensure applications are submitted during the designated filing periods (August–October for Spring, January–May for Fall).

Prerequisites

• Completion of ENGL 1301 and SPCH 1311/1315/1321 with a grade of “C” or higher.
• Immunization records, including Hepatitis B, tuberculosis screening, and other health requirements.
• BLS CPR certification from the American Heart Association or similar organizations.

Essential Skills

Students must demonstrate competencies in areas such as:

• Patient communication and confidentiality.
• Performing lab tests and clinical procedures.
• Managing administrative tasks like medical billing and scheduling.

Graduates of this program can pursue roles in physician offices, clinics, and hospitals. Additionally, Dallas College has articulation agreements with institutions like the University of North Texas, allowing students to transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree in Health Services Management.

The program also serves as a stepping stone for those interested in becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). After completing medical assisting, students can enroll in the LVN program, which includes coursework in anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical rotations.

The program’s estimated total cost includes tuition, textbooks, uniforms, and fees, making it affordable compared to similar programs. Students are encouraged to apply for financial aid early and consider tuition payment plans offered by Dallas College. Additional expenses include:

• Immunizations and physical exams: $225
• CPR certification: $65
• Background checks and drug screenings: $86