Fortis Institute in Towson offers a diploma-based Medical Assisting program that combines practical hands-on training with classroom instruction. The course is designed to equip students with essential clinical and administrative skills, preparing them for entry-level roles in healthcare. The program takes 36 weeks for daytime students or 45 weeks for evening students, totaling 780 contact hours and costing around $18,211.
Program Overview:
Training and Skills:
The Medical Assisting program at Fortis Institute in Towson aims to prepare students for roles that support physicians and healthcare teams. Medical assistants are increasingly crucial in healthcare, responsible for both administrative tasks and clinical procedures.
Students will learn office management tasks such as scheduling patient appointments, managing patient records, processing insurance, and handling electronic health records. Clinically, students practice skills such as taking vital signs, performing electrocardiograms (EKGs), blood draws (phlebotomy), administering injections, and conducting basic laboratory screenings.
The program also emphasizes understanding and applying critical healthcare standards, including Universal Precautions, OSHA safety guidelines, and patient privacy regulations outlined by HIPAA. Students are trained to uphold strict confidentiality and comply with legal standards relevant to healthcare settings.
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Curriculum Details:
The program consists of 46 quarter credits spread across a structured curriculum, including:
- Medical Terminology
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Medical Office Procedures
- Electronic Health Records
- Clinical Techniques and Procedures
- Lab Techniques
- Invasive Procedures (such as injections and drawing blood)
These courses provide comprehensive coverage of medical assisting responsibilities, preparing students for diverse situations they’ll encounter professionally.
Hands-On Experience – Externship:
Fortis Institute incorporates a required externship lasting 180 clock hours, giving students valuable real-world experience in an actual healthcare setting. This externship is unpaid and conducted under professional supervision. It allows students to apply their classroom knowledge practically, enhancing their competence and confidence.
Certification Opportunities:
Near program completion, students qualify to take the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam offered by the National Health Career Association (NHA). The cost of this certification exam is included in the total tuition. Achieving this certification significantly boosts graduates’ employability.
Class Schedules:
Fortis provides flexible scheduling with classes available in both daytime and evening formats:
- Day classes run for 36 weeks, meeting Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Evening classes run for 45 weeks, meeting Monday through Thursday from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Externship schedules may vary and could occur outside these standard class times, aligning with typical healthcare facility hours.
Cost:
The tuition for this diploma program is $16,863, with the total cost, including additional fees, approximately $18,211. This cost structure includes the CCMA exam fee, ensuring no hidden or unexpected fees toward certification.
Career Prospects After Graduation:
Upon graduating from the program, students will be equipped to enter various healthcare settings. Typical employment opportunities include roles in hospitals like Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC), outpatient care centers, physician offices, clinics, and assisted living facilities. The skills learned prepare students to manage patient-facing tasks effectively and administrative responsibilities crucial to medical office operations.
Fortis Institute actively supports job-seeking graduates through its Career Services department. The staff provides guidance on resumes, job search strategies, interview preparation, and effective career-building skills.
Location and Campus Environment:
The Towson campus is conveniently situated at 700 York Road, offering easy access from Baltimore and surrounding areas. Towson is recognized for its suburban atmosphere, ideal for both studying and family life. It provides quick access to urban employment opportunities while maintaining the comfort of suburban amenities such as parks, shops, restaurants, and excellent schools.
Admissions and Financial Aid:
Fortis Institute provides straightforward admission procedures, with prospective students able to start by filling out an online information form or speaking directly with an admissions advisor. The institute also offers financial aid options, including Title IV federal financial assistance programs, available to students who qualify. Financial aid representatives guide applicants throughout the process.
Who Should Consider This School:
Fortis Institute in Towson is an excellent option for individuals seeking a practical, hands-on education with flexible class schedules. Students balancing family, work, or other responsibilities may appreciate the evening classes option. The structured and supportive learning environment, combined with a strong externship program, makes Fortis especially suitable for those who prefer direct patient care and administrative tasks in a healthcare setting. However, prospective students should consider the tuition carefully, comparing it with similar programs to ensure it aligns with their financial plans and career objectives. Those who value location, convenience, and a supportive campus environment will find this program particularly attractive.
| Category | Details |
| Cost | $18,211 total (includes tuition and fees) |
| Duration | 36 weeks (day) or 45 weeks (evening) |
| Class Schedules | Day: Mon–Thu, 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.; Evening: Mon–Thu, 6:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. |
| Online Classes? | No, this is a fully in-person (residential) program |
| Requirements | No specific prerequisites listed; admissions through Fortis’ application process |
| Address | 700 York Road, Towson, MD 21204 |
| Phone | (410) 337-5155 |
| Website | https://www.fortis.edu/campuses/maryland/towson/medical-assisting.html |
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