West Los Angeles College
The Medical Assisting program at West Los Angeles College (WLAC) is designed to prepare students for administrative and clinical roles in healthcare settings. The program offers a mix of classroom learning and hands-on experience, including a clinical externship. Below is an in-depth overview of the program:
Program Content and Duration
The WLAC Medical Assisting program spans approximately one year and covers both administrative and clinical skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to handle various tasks in a healthcare environment. Some of the main areas of focus include:
- Administrative tasks: Patient scheduling, medical billing, office management, and medical record management.
- Clinical procedures: Measuring vital signs, administering injections, taking blood samples, and assisting physicians with exams.
The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and a clinical externship, providing practical experience in a real-world healthcare setting. The classes are offered in the evenings and on weekends, which makes the program accessible to working adults or those with daytime commitments.
Costs and Tuition
Tuition for the Medical Assisting program at WLAC is subject to the standard fees set by the college for vocational programs. While the exact cost may vary year-to-year, it typically includes:
- Tuition fees for the courses
- Additional costs for textbooks and materials
- Fees for required vaccinations, physical exams, and malpractice insurance (which students need to secure before participating in the clinical externship).
| Expense Type | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $1,238 | $10,130 |
| Books and Supplies | $938 | $938 |
| Food and Housing (Off Campus) | $19,431 | $19,431 |
| Other Expenses (Off Campus) | $6,192 | $6,192 |
| Other Expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $5,220 | $5,220 |
| Total Expenses (Off Campus) | $27,799 | $36,691 |
| Total Expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $7,396 | $16,288 |
Program Requirements
To enroll in the Medical Assisting program, students need to meet certain prerequisites and program requirements:
- Complete a physical examination and show proof of immunizations.
- Obtain malpractice insurance, which is necessary before starting the externship.
- The ability to commit to the program schedule, which involves evening and weekend classes, as well as the clinical externship.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Medical Assisting program can pursue a variety of career paths in healthcare, including:
- Medical Assistant in clinics, hospitals, or private practices.
- Medical Office Administrator, managing patient records, billing, and office operations.
- Clinical Support roles, assisting doctors and nurses with patient care and medical procedures.
Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants (CCBMA) exam, enhancing their credentials and job prospects.
How to Enroll
To enroll in the program, prospective students should:
- Visit the WLAC Admissions Office or apply online via the college’s official website.
- Complete the necessary prerequisites and submit required documentation, including proof of immunizations and physical exams.
- Attend an orientation session, where students will receive detailed information about the program and the externship requirements.
For further details on tuition, enrollment deadlines, and class schedules, visit the WLAC Medical Assistant Program page.