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Medical Assistant

Medical Assistant

Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science Degree, AAS, Certificate, CER

Pathway: Health Sciences

More Options: Classroom Based, Remote Real-Time, Online, Hybrid

Program Length: 4 semesters

Location: Centennial, Center for Healthcare Education and Simulation

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Medical Assisting


One Associate of Applied Science degree option and one certificate option are available. The areas of Medical/Clinical Assisting are designed to prepare individuals to assist with clinical and administrative functions as employees within the ambulatory health care setting. All students become familiar with multiple medical diagnostic and treatment procedures commonly performed in the ambulatory setting including phlebotomy, laboratory testing, respiratory testing and treatments, cast care, wound care, medication dosage calculation and administration, performing EKG (electrocardiogram) while interacting with patients and their needs.

Learning Outcomes

You will be able to:

  1. Identify and describe body system structures and/or, disorders, and/or diseases.
  2. Discuss legal and/or ethical issues as applicable to medical practices.
  3. Demonstrate effective communication skills.
  4. Perform medical administrative and/or financial tasks.
  5. Perform accepted clinical and/or laboratory skills for the ambulatory care setting.

  • Manage patient accounts and records (e.g., coding, billing, bookkeeping).
  • Illustrate the normal functions and common pathologies of body systems (e.g., cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological).
  • Interpret the use and side effects of drugs commonly used to treat diseases affecting body systems.
  • Perform administrative duties used in medical offices.
  • Assist with examinations, treatments, and procedures associated with medical specialties.
  • Collect, handle, and examine laboratory specimens.
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Classes you might take

PPSC has a wide variety of classes you can take related to health and wellness.

Introduces student to study and application medico-legal concepts in medical careers. This course seeks to establish a foundation for ethical behavior and decision making in health professions.

Provides an overview of pharmacology language, abbreviations, systems of measurement and conversions. The Controlled Substances Act, prescriptions, forms of medications, patient care applications, drug classifications/interactions, and safety in drug therapy and patient care are presented. Information regarding the measurement of medications, dosage calculations, routes of administration, and commonly prescribed drugs in the medical office is provided.

Provides hands on experience with the basic clinical skills required for assisting with patient care in an ambulatory setting.

Provides students with the opportunity to supplement coursework with practical work experience related to their education program. Students work under the immediate supervision of experienced personnel at the business location and with the direct guidance of the instructor.

View Catalog

1st semester plan

General Education Courses


  • CIS 1018 - Introduction to PC Applications 3 Credit Hour(s) or CSC 1005 - Computer Literacy 3 Credit Hour(s)

  • COM 1150 - Public Speaking 3 Credit Hour(s) or COM 1250 - Interpersonal Communication SS3 3 Credit Hour(s) or COM 2250 - Organizational Communication 3 Credit Hour(s)

  • ENG 1031 - Technical Writing I CO1 3 Credit Hour(s) or ENG 1021 - English Composition I CO1 3 Credit Hour(s)

  • MAT 1140 - Career Math 3 Credit Hour(s) or MAT 1160 - Financial Mathematics 3 Credit Hour(s)

  • PSY 1001 - General Psychology I SS3 3 Credit Hour(s) or PSY 1005 - Psychology of Workplace Relationships 3 Credit Hour(s)

Total Credit Hours: 15

math & english requirements

  • College Quantitative Literacy 

  • MAT 1140 - Career Math 3 Credit Hour(s) or MAT 1160 - Financial Mathematics 3 Credit Hour(s)

  • College Reading & Writing Literacy

  • ENG 1031 - Technical Writing I CO1 3 Credit Hour(s) or ENG 1021 - English Composition I CO1 3 Credit Hour(s)

Voices of PPSC

Denay T.

Voices of PPSC

I knew I wanted to work in the medical field but didn’t know where to begin or how to start. My advisor, instructors, and staff have been supportive and knowledgeable as I navigate my educational journey. PPSC provides a structured environment for learning opportunities for personal growth and development, and the ability to develop skills and achieve goals. The process of becoming a medical assistant at PPSC has been inspirational. I know I will be prepared to enter the workforce because of the excellent quality of the education received here.

Denay T.