The Certificate in Medical Assisting program is designed to include instruction to build knowledge and skills to perform medical office administrative and clinical tasks, manage emergency situations, communicate effectively, and provide instruction to patients.
In-depth study of the medical sciences of the human body, including anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the body systems and clinical including room procedures, medical lab procedures, medical terminology, pharmacology, and administrative procedures, including but not limited to medical insurance and coding and front office procedures, is provided.
Students receive educational instruction in the classroom, along with practical training in lab and practicum courses. The certificate program pairs online instruction with on campus laboratory courses and on-the-job practicum experience.
The South College Asheville campus has partnered with Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) to offer Medical Assisting students the unique opportunity to participate in an IV prep course. This course provides students with a practical Simulation Lab experiential training in the process of initiation and removal of an IV catheter.
As you work toward your future professional goals, review the related information at the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
To earn your certificate in medical assisting, you must think critically, communicate effectively with patients and medical professionals, and be a lifelong learner. Students in this program must manage their time well and complete assignments on schedule. Class participation is a must, and working with other students is encouraged. Medical assistants are required to help others as part of a team supporting a physician or group of physicians, so you must work well collaboratively and conduct yourself professionally.
South College finds excellent practicum placements for students, where they can apply real-world applications of their classroom skills. Our experienced team of educators is invested in the success of every student, which is why instructor assistance and tutoring services are available as needed.
Although there is no state licensure for medical assistants, as a graduate of a CAAHEP accredited program, students in Asheville, Nashville, & Knoxville are qualified to take the AAMA (American Association of Medical Assistants) Certification Exam. The CMA (AAMA) credential is awarded to individuals who pass the AAMA Certification Exam. The certification exam is required and graduates who successfully complete the exam are demonstrating the mark of a professional and the ability to competently perform clinical and administrative duties in a medical office. The distinction of being a Certified Medical Assistant is a credential many physician-employers require.
The Medical Assisting Certificate program offered at the Asheville campus is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Reaccreditation affirmation was awarded in August 2015 for a period not to exceed 10 years.
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) 9355 – 113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775 727-210-2350 www.caahep.org
Atlanta
The South College Certificate in Medical Assisting program offered at the Atlanta campus is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (caahep.org) upon recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). Initial accreditation was awarded in March 2022. The next evaluation of the program is scheduled to occur no later than Spring 2027.
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) 9355 – 113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775 727-210-2350 www.caahep.org
Indianapolis
The South College Certificate in Medical Assisting program offered at the Indianapolis campus is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) (9355-113th St. N., #7709, Seminole, FL 33775, 727-210-2350, www.caahep.org) upon recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). Initial accreditation was awarded in 2023 for a period of 5 years.
Knoxville
The South College Certificate in Medical Assisting program offered at the Knoxville campus is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). Reaccreditation affirmation was awarded in September 2022 for a period not to exceed ten years.
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) 9355 – 113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775 727-210-2350 www.caahep.org
Nashville
The South College Certificate in Medical Assisting program offered at the Nashville campus is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) (9355-113th St. N., #7709, Seminole, FL 33775, 727-210-2350, www.caahep.org) upon recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). Initial accreditation was awarded in September 2021. The next evaluation of the program is scheduled to occur no later than Fall 2026.
Orlando
South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award degrees at the doctorate, educational specialist, master’s, baccalaureate, and associate levels. South College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of South College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
Amounts for tuition, fees, books, and supplies are subject to change. South College follows the required methodology provided by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission for the reporting of employment information for graduates. This information is compiled on an annual basis and published via the institution website each year for graduates during the most recently completed reporting year (July 1-June 30). For more detailed information related to the calculation of graduate employment rates, please click here.
I chose South College because it came highly recommended from mentors of mine, the faculty is second to none, and the program fits my ever-changing lifestyle. I also chose it because of the flexibility. My wife is still serving in the United States Air Force on Active Duty, and this means that we move when they tell us to move.
- Shawn Domm, Doctor of Physical Therapy
One of the major reasons I chose South College was for the smaller class sizes. It allows more one-on-one time between students and professors, which enhances the learning experience for me.
- Elizabeth Frerichs, Bachelor of Science in Health Science
I went to college originally straight out of high school with the intent of majoring in musical performance with a concentration in theoretical studies. I was not prepared to for college at that point, so I decided to gain some experience and maturity by joining the work force full-time. After working for 10 years, I felt it was time to try school again.
- Adam Hatcher, Bachelor of Business Administration
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