Santa Monica College
Santa Monica College (SMC) offers a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the medical field. This course is part of SMC’s Career Training programs and is ideal for those looking to work closely with healthcare professionals in a clinical setting. Below is a detailed guide covering all aspects of the program, from its costs and requirements to career opportunities and enrollment process.
Program Content and Duration
The CCMA program at SMC is structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience. It includes both theoretical instruction and hands-on clinical practice, ensuring that students are well-prepared for real-world medical settings. The course covers essential topics such as:
- Patient care procedures
- Basic laboratory techniques
- Medical terminology
- Anatomy and physiology
- Phlebotomy and EKG (Electrocardiogram) training
- Administrative skills (medical records, insurance processing, billing, etc.)
Duration
The program spans approximately 140 hours of classroom instruction, combined with a clinical externship to provide hands-on experience. The exact length of the externship can vary depending on placement but typically lasts several weeks.
Costs and Tuition
The tuition for the Medical Assisting Course at SMC varies depending on the student’s residency status.
| Expense Type | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $1,156 | $9,316 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,746 | $1,746 |
| Food and Housing (Off Campus) | $11,556 | $11,556 |
| Other Expenses (Off Campus) | $4,262 | $4,262 |
| Other Expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $4,262 | $4,262 |
| Total Expenses (Off Campus) | $18,720 | $26,880 |
| Total Expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $7,164 | $15,324 |
Enrollment Requirements
To enroll in the CCMA program at SMC, prospective students need to meet several requirements:
- High School Diploma or GED: Students must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Age Requirement: Most students must be 18 years of age or older.
- CPR Certification: A current CPR certification may be required before clinical placements.
- Health Requirements: Up-to-date immunizations and a health screening may be necessary to participate in the externship portion of the course.
- Background Check: Some clinical sites may require a background check before allowing students to start their externship.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the SMC Medical Assisting Course will be well-positioned to pursue a variety of roles within healthcare settings. Medical assistants are in high demand across various facilities, including:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Physician’s offices
- Urgent care centers
- Specialty practices (e.g., pediatrics, orthopedics)
Job responsibilities typically include assisting physicians with patient examinations, performing routine lab tests, administering injections, taking vital signs, and managing administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and processing medical records. Upon completing the program, graduates will be eligible to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam, which can significantly enhance job prospects and earning potential.
How to Enroll
The enrollment process for the Santa Monica College CCMA program is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Visit the SMC Career Training Website: Go to the SMC Career Training page for program details and updates.
- Submit an Application: Complete and submit the online application form.
- Attend an Information Session: Information sessions are typically offered to provide students with detailed insights into the program.
- Pay Enrollment Fees: After submitting your application, pay the necessary fees to secure your spot in the course.
- Complete Pre-requisites: Ensure all pre-requisites, including CPR certification, health screenings, and immunizations, are completed before the start of your externship.
Key Highlights
- Program Length: ~140 hours of classroom instruction + externship
- Tuition: Approx. $3,995 (California residents)
- Career Pathways: Medical Assistant, Phlebotomist, EKG Technician, Administrative Medical Assistant
- Certification: Eligible for the CCMA certification exam upon graduation
Additional Information
Students are encouraged to take full advantage of the externship program, as it provides real-world experience and often serves as a stepping stone to full-time employment in a healthcare setting. Moreover, Santa Monica College offers financial aid opportunities to qualified students, helping to make this program accessible to a broader audience.
For more details or to start the enrollment process, visit the official SMC CCMA program page and contact the admissions office.
This comprehensive Medical Assisting Course at Santa Monica College is an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to embark on a rewarding healthcare career with a strong foundation in clinical and administrative practices.