Howard Community College Medical Assistant Program

The first section of the program focuses on the fundamentals. You’ll dive into the core responsibilities of a clinical medical assistant including understanding lab procedures, diagnostic testing, pharmacology, and front office duties. This course is online-based but does require scheduled lab sessions in person. It awards 10 CEUs and costs $1,250, including $375 in fees.

To move forward in the program, you must complete this theory course before advancing to the skills and internship components.

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This is where you practice what you’ve learned. You’ll get hands-on experience with lab work, patient interaction, front-office administration, and specialized skills that cater to different patient populations. Offered face-to-face on Tuesdays (6–9 p.m.) or Saturdays (9 a.m.–4 p.m.), this section delivers 6 CEUs and is priced at $1,605, which includes $905 in fees.

The combination of weekday and weekend options helps accommodate those who may already be working or managing other responsibilities.

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The internship ties it all together. This final phase gives you real-world clinical experience, allowing you to apply everything you’ve learned under supervision at a partner facility. Expect to spend 16–20 hours per week for 6 weeks, scheduled based on the facility’s availability. This part of the program costs $550 (with $300 in fees) and awards 6 CEUs.

Your hours and days will be worked out directly with your assigned site, offering some level of flexibility within the structure.

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After completing all three parts of the program, you’re eligible to sit for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. While not explicitly included in the tuition, this credential significantly enhances your job prospects in both Maryland and beyond.

The program equips you for entry-level jobs in outpatient clinics, primary care offices, and specialty practices. You’ll graduate with a skillset that includes both front and back-office duties, making you a valuable all-around team member in any medical office.

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To be eligible for this program, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Pass a criminal background check
• Provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination
• Submit required medical clearance forms
• Be proficient in English (speaking, reading, and writing)

Note that drug screening and a valid BLS CPR card are also required before participating in the internship.

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Here’s the cost breakdown for all three parts of the program:

• Medical Assistant Theory (XH-121): $1,250 (includes $375 in fees)
• Medical Assistant Skills (XH-122): $1,605 (includes $905 in fees)
• Medical Assistant Internship (XH-123): $550 (includes $300 in fees)
• Total Estimated Cost: $3,405

This does not include textbooks, CPR certification, or other supplies, so be prepared for minor additional expenses.

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This is a hybrid program. The theory portion is mostly online, while the skills and internship portions are in person. HCC offers both weekday evening and weekend options for the in-person classes, making it easier for working adults to participate.

The internship schedule is arranged on a one-on-one basis with the assigned healthcare provider, which helps provide a personalized experience, but you’ll need to be flexible.

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Howard Community College offers student support through the Non-Credit Allied Health department. While financial aid details aren’t explicitly mentioned, the modest tuition and pay-as-you-go structure may help students budget more easily.

Students also benefit from career services and the credibility of attending a school that’s known for its healthcare training. However, note that job placement is not guaranteed, so it’s important to use every resource available to maximize your chances of employment after graduation.

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