Morgan State University provides a fully online Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) course designed to prepare students for the national certification exam. The program costs $2,795 and includes 540 hours of self-paced instruction, which students have up to 12 months to complete. It covers both administrative and clinical skills, offering flexibility for busy students and professionals.
Program Overview
Morgan State University’s online Clinical Medical Assistant course aims to equip students with the practical skills needed for entry-level medical assistant roles. Students will gain in-depth knowledge about clinical duties such as patient care, blood draws, EKG procedures, and basic laboratory tasks. Additionally, they learn essential office functions, including patient scheduling, medical billing, and record-keeping.
Upon completion, participants become eligible to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). This credential is widely recognized and highly valued among employers.
[esyoh_listings]
Course Format and Length
The program is 100% online, giving students maximum flexibility. Students can enroll and start at any time, making it convenient for individuals balancing other commitments like work or family. The course provides access for up to 12 months once students begin, allowing them to progress at their own comfortable pace.
The total length of the course content is 540 hours, covering both theoretical knowledge and clinical procedures. The coursework is designed with self-study modules that include interactive activities, instructional videos, and quizzes.
Cost and Financial Information
The complete course costs $2,795, and the tuition includes all essential instructional materials, textbooks, and even the CCMA national certification exam voucher. This inclusion simplifies budgeting, eliminating additional hidden costs. Students should note, however, that financial aid typically associated with college credit courses (such as Pell grants or federal aid) does not apply since this is a non-credit, continuing education course.
Interested students might explore external funding opportunities, such as employer tuition reimbursement or state workforce programs, to offset costs.
Curriculum and Learning Objectives
The curriculum is structured into two primary sections:
1. Medical Terminology Section:
This section introduces fundamental medical language concepts related to human anatomy, physiology, disease processes, and treatments. Students who already have medical terminology knowledge can take advantage of the optional “test-out” feature. By scoring at least 80%, they can skip lessons they’ve already mastered, focusing instead on new content.
2. Clinical Medical Assisting Section:
This comprehensive section covers essential medical assisting skills:
- Measuring and documenting vital signs.
- Assisting healthcare providers during patient examinations.
- Administering medications and injections safely.
- Performing basic laboratory tests and phlebotomy (blood draws).
- Conducting EKGs.
- Managing patient records and appointments.
- Understanding medical billing, coding, and insurance processes.
Students also learn about professional ethics, patient privacy (HIPAA compliance), and effective communication in healthcare settings.
Certification Exam Preparation and Clinical Experience
Morgan State University’s program thoroughly prepares students for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Certification fees are fully covered by the tuition cost, eliminating any extra financial burden.
An additional unique benefit of this online program is the opportunity to participate in an optional unpaid clinical externship after course completion. However, the program explicitly states it cannot guarantee clinical placement; students must proactively engage in arranging their clinical experience.
Instructor Support and Resources
Course instruction is provided by seasoned healthcare professionals with extensive clinical and educational experience, including Nancy Smith, Tammy Stanson, and Hilary Khouri. Students can access instructor support through online forums, email, and phone as needed.
Included instructional materials and textbooks are shipped to students after enrollment. Additionally, the course features user-friendly online modules, interactive content, and exams designed to ensure thorough understanding and retention of information.
Technical Requirements
Students must have reliable computer access with up-to-date browsers (preferably Google Chrome or Firefox), Adobe Acrobat Reader, and Microsoft Word Online. The course content is compatible with PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
Admission Requirements
The Morgan State University online CCMA program has no academic prerequisites for enrollment. However, for those planning to take the national certification exam, the following requirement applies:
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required to sit for the national certification exam.
Career Outlook and Job Opportunities
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong employment growth for medical assistants, predicting approximately 16% growth through 2031—significantly above average compared to other fields. Certified clinical medical assistants typically find work in various healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, private medical practices, and outpatient care centers.
Graduates can expect to perform diverse tasks, making the role dynamic and adaptable to various medical settings. This versatility enhances job security and career advancement opportunities, particularly with national certification.
Critical Considerations and Unique Features
The 100% online and flexible, self-paced format is ideal for independent learners, working adults, or those who require schedule flexibility. However, students must consider their own self-discipline and study habits when deciding if an online program suits their learning style. The lack of guaranteed clinical externship placements means students must proactively seek hands-on training opportunities, which could be challenging depending on geographic location and local opportunities.
This program’s relatively affordable price, combined with its convenience and inclusivity of exam fees, makes it an appealing choice for many students. Its comprehensive skill-building curriculum provides a well-rounded education without the higher costs associated with traditional classroom-based programs.
Who Should Consider This School
Morgan State University’s Clinical Medical Assistant online program is best suited for motivated, independent learners seeking a flexible and affordable route to becoming a certified medical assistant. Individuals with strong self-discipline, good time management skills, and comfort with online learning will benefit most. The program’s inclusive tuition and national certification preparation make it attractive for students aiming for prompt entry into the growing healthcare field.
Category | Details |
Cost: | $2,795 (includes course materials and CCMA exam voucher) |
Duration: | Up to 12 months (self-paced; 540 course hours) |
Class Schedules: | Open enrollment; start anytime; work at your own pace |
Online Classes?: | Yes, 100% online |
Requirements: | No prerequisites to enroll; high school diploma or equivalent required to sit for the CCMA exam |
Address: | 1700 East Cold Spring Lane, Baltimore, MD 21251 |
Phone: | (443) 885-3333 |
Email: | Contact through Enrollment Support |
Website: | https://www.morgan.edu/center-for-continuing-and-professional-studies/non-credit-programs/online-career-training/featured-courses/clinical-medical-assistant |
Discover Your Options
Explore leading medical assistant programs in Baltimore.