San Jacinto Community College – Medical Assistant Program
San Jacinto College offers a comprehensive Medical Assisting Program that prepares students for a dynamic career in the healthcare industry. This program provides hands-on experience and the essential skills needed for both administrative and clinical tasks in medical settings such as hospitals, clinics, and physicians’ offices.
Program Overview
The Medical Assisting Program at San Jacinto College has two key educational tracks:
- Certificate of Technology (1 year): Focuses on the core skills required for entry-level positions.
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree (2 years): Includes further specialization and is designed for those looking to advance their careers or transfer to a four-year university for continued education.
Course Content
Students in the program learn:
- Administrative skills: Scheduling appointments, handling insurance, recording vital signs, and managing electronic health records.
- Clinical skills: Preparing patients for exams, sterilizing instruments, drawing blood, and assisting with medical procedures.
- Exam Preparation: Courses like Medical Law and Ethics and Medical Assisting Credentialing Exam Review help prepare students for certification exams.
Upon completion, students are eligible to sit for several industry-recognized certifications:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
- National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA)
Program Costs and Tuition
The Medical Assisting Certificate Program costs:
| Estimated Expenses for Academic Year | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| Tuition and fees (In-district) | $1,992 |
| Tuition and fees (In-state) | $3,456 |
| Tuition and fees (Out-of-state) | $5,352 |
| Books and supplies | $1,460 |
| Off Campus – Food and Housing | $18,971 |
| Off Campus – Other expenses | $4,300 |
| Off Campus with Family – Other expenses | $4,300 |
| Total Expenses (In-district Off Campus) | $26,723 |
| Total Expenses (In-district Off Campus with Family) | $7,752 |
| Total Expenses (In-state Off Campus) | $28,187 |
| Total Expenses (In-state Off Campus with Family) | $9,216 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state Off Campus) | $30,083 |
| Total Expenses (Out-of-state Off Campus with Family) | $11,112 |
Financial aid and scholarships may be available for eligible students.
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Immunization: Students must meet specific vaccination requirements due to the hands-on nature of the program in healthcare settings.
- Background Check: Criminal background checks and drug screenings are required before admission to the program.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Medical Assisting Program can pursue careers in various healthcare environments, including:
- Physician’s offices
- Hospitals
- Outpatient care centers
- Specialist clinics such as ophthalmology and podiatry.
The job outlook for medical assistants is very promising, with demand expected to grow faster than average as healthcare services continue to expand.
How to Enroll
To apply, students need to complete the college’s general admissions process and then apply to the Medical Assisting Program specifically. Applications are accepted twice a year, with deadlines in the summer and fall. More detailed enrollment information can be found on San Jacinto College’s official website.
This program offers a strong foundation for those looking to start a rewarding career in healthcare, providing both immediate job opportunities and a pathway for further advancement.
Houston Locations
San Jacinto College is a public community college serving the Greater Houston area, with campuses primarily located in Pasadena and Houston, Texas.
Main Campuses:
- Central Campus:
- Address: 8060 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, TX 77505
- Overview: Located in Pasadena, this campus offers a variety of academic and technical programs to serve the educational needs of the community. San Jacinto College
- South Campus:
- Address: 13735 Beamer Rd, Houston, TX 77089
- Overview: Situated in Houston, the South Campus provides dynamic and supportive educational environments with a range of programs and services. San Jacinto College
- North Campus:
- Address: 5800 Uvalde Rd, Houston, TX 77049
- Overview: Serving the northern part of the Greater Houston area, this campus offers various programs to meet the educational and workforce training needs of students.
Extension Centers and Early College High Schools:
San Jacinto College also operates several extension centers and partners with local school districts to offer Early College High Schools, providing students with opportunities to earn college credits while completing their high school education.
For more detailed information about each location and the programs offered, you can visit the San Jacinto College Locations page.