Towson University offers a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program with a hybrid learning format that combines online self-paced lessons, in-person clinical training, and a required externship. The program totals 518 hours, which includes 286 hours of self-paced study, 72 hours of clinical training, and a 160-hour externship. The tuition is $4,899, covering all course materials, certification exam fees, and essential equipment like scrubs, a stethoscope, and a blood pressure cuff.
Program Overview
Towson University’s Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in healthcare facilities, such as doctors’ offices and outpatient clinics. The CCMA credential, obtained upon passing an exam by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), is included in the tuition.
The course follows a hybrid model, blending online learning with essential hands-on clinical experience. Students complete most coursework independently through self-paced modules but also participate in structured in-person sessions to practice clinical skills. After coursework, students must complete a 160-hour externship to gain practical experience.
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Course Structure and Schedule Options
The program offers flexibility, catering to different learning speeds and personal schedules. Students can select from various schedules:
- 12-week clinical schedule: two evening classes per week (3 hours each) or one Saturday class (6 hours).
- 6-week accelerated clinical schedule: two daytime classes per week (6 hours each).
While the accelerated option allows quicker completion, it is rigorous, requiring significant focus and time commitment. Students considering this fast-paced path must carefully evaluate their ability to manage heavy workloads.
Curriculum Breakdown
The curriculum is divided into six comprehensive modules that cover essential topics for medical assistants. Students learn both theoretical concepts and practical skills, including:
- Medical terminology and anatomy
- Patient care, clinical communication, and medical ethics
- Infection control and laboratory procedures
- Pharmacology, medication administration, and minor surgical assistance
- Specialized areas like pediatrics, OB/GYN, and cardiology
- Clinical skills such as phlebotomy, taking vital signs, and EKG administration
Each module progressively builds students’ skills to ensure thorough preparation for real-world clinical environments.
Required Externship Experience
A significant part of the CCMA program is the externship, lasting 160 hours. Towson University partners with over 50 healthcare facilities across Maryland, DC, and Virginia, providing diverse placement options. The externship is unpaid but vital for hands-on training. Placement considers each student’s preferences and logistical needs.
Students must fulfill specific health and background requirements before starting their externship. This preparation ensures students are ready and eligible for placement in professional healthcare environments.
Admission and Pre-Enrollment Requirements
Prospective students must complete specific steps to secure admission, including:
- Meeting with the program coordinator to understand course and externship expectations.
- Paying a non-refundable $200 pre-enrollment screening fee.
- Completing background and health screenings, including:
- Criminal background check
- Drug screening (basic urine panel)
- Proof of vaccinations:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Hepatitis B
- Tuberculosis (TB) screening
- Annual flu vaccine
- Maintaining a current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association.
Having active health insurance.
These requirements must be finalized at least two weeks before the course begins.
Tuition and Financial Considerations
The tuition for Towson’s CCMA program is $4,899. The cost includes comprehensive materials such as a set of Towson-branded scrubs, a stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, course texts, NHA certification exam fees, and access to online learning tools. Tuition also covers the American Heart Association’s Basic Life Support (BLS) training.
Students can benefit from financial support options since this program is WIOA-approved and listed on Maryland’s Eligible Training Provider List. Students can inquire directly with Towson for details about available tuition assistance or discounts.
Certification and Career Opportunities
Completion of Towson University’s CCMA program fully prepares graduates for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant exam administered by NHA. Passing this national certification exam can significantly enhance job prospects, as many employers prefer or require this credential.
Clinical medical assistants are in high demand, and certified individuals typically enjoy better employment opportunities, competitive salaries, and greater professional respect within healthcare teams.
Technology and Materials
The program’s hybrid format necessitates specific technical equipment, including:
- Reliable computer (PC or Mac)
- Web camera (highly recommended)
- Compatible web browser (latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari)
- Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat Reader software
Students need reliable internet access and email to participate effectively in the online learning components.
Instructional Team
The teaching team at Towson includes experienced healthcare professionals with substantial industry and educational backgrounds. Program manager Tricia Taylor brings extensive experience in healthcare management and emergency medical services, while instructors like Shannon Kennedy-Rios, Susan King, and Jennifer Powell each possess specialized clinical and educational expertise, ensuring students receive high-quality instruction.
Important Considerations
Students considering Towson’s CCMA program should reflect on their learning style, scheduling flexibility, and personal commitments, especially if choosing the accelerated schedule. The program’s rigor and hybrid nature require disciplined self-study and punctual attendance at clinical sessions. Additionally, prospective students must factor in the pre-enrollment requirements, including health screenings, immunizations, and background checks.
Though tuition is competitively priced considering the inclusive materials and certification, students should evaluate their financial situation carefully and investigate possible financial assistance early in the process.
Who Should Consider This School
Towson University’s CCMA program is ideal for motivated individuals looking for a structured, hybrid approach blending online and hands-on training. This option best suits students seeking flexibility without sacrificing clinical experience, and those who appreciate having extensive support from experienced instructors and a variety of externship sites. Due to its demanding curriculum and pre-enrollment requirements, it’s particularly suitable for organized students who can handle independent online learning combined with scheduled in-person sessions.
| Category | Details |
| Cost | $4,899 (includes course materials, scrubs, certification exam voucher, and BLS certification) |
| Duration | 9–18 weeks coursework plus a 160-hour externship |
| Class Schedules | Options include weekday evenings, Saturdays, or accelerated daytime formats |
| Online Classes? | Partially – hybrid format with self-paced online learning and required in-person clinical sessions |
| Requirements | High school diploma or GED, background check, drug screening, vaccination proof, BLS certification, health insurance, and $200 non-refundable pre-enrollment fee |
| Address | 8000 York Road, Towson, MD 21252 |
| Phone | (410) 704-2000 |
| Website | https://www.towson.edu/campus/partnerships-research/continuing-education/health-medical-courses/certified-clinical-medical-assistant.html |
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