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    • Medical Assistant Certificate Program

    Join a Fast-Growing Healthcare Career

    The Medical Assistant Certificate Program at Maria College prepares students for dynamic roles in healthcare by combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. This program equips students with essential skills in patient care—such as taking vital signs and assisting with procedures—and administrative competencies, including medical record management and scheduling. Emphasizing patient-centered care, effective communication, and adherence to industry standards, the curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in hospitals, clinics, and private practices, as well as for national certification.

    Employment for medical assistants is expected to grow 15 % from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations, creating around 119,800 annual job openings nationwide*. In New York State, medical assistants earn around $46,000 annually, with Albany salaries** ranging from $41,000 to $47,000—and experienced, certified professionals often earn over $54,000.

    Move into Patient Care with Purpose and Impact

    Medical assistants serve as the essential first point of care, greeting patients, taking vital signs, assisting in clinical procedures, and supporting office operations—playing an essential role in the patient experience.

    Why Maria College’s Weekend Format Stands Out

    Get job-ready in just 18 months with part-time weekend classes, extended financing for eligible students, and hands-on clinical training in local healthcare settings—designed for working adults who need flexibility and fast outcomes.

    Your Opportunity Awaits—Apply Now

    In just 18 months, Maria College’s part-time Medical Assistant Certificate Program gets you job-ready for hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Weekend classes, flexible scheduling, and free tuition for qualified students make it easier than ever to launch your future in healthcare.

    Mission Statement

    The Medical Assistant Certificate Program is designed to reflect and reinforce Maria College’s commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and career readiness. In alignment with the college’s mission, the program:

    • Integrates Practical Learning with Academic Rigor: It combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences, ensuring that students gain both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for immediate entry into the healthcare field.
    • Fosters Professional and Ethical Development: By emphasizing effective communication, ethical practices, and patient-centered care, the program supports the college’s goal of cultivating responsible, community-minded professionals.
    • Strengthens Community Partnerships: The program’s focus on real-world training and industry collaboration mirrors Maria College’s master plan to build robust connections with local healthcare providers, enhancing both student learning and community health outcomes.
    • Supports Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development: By preparing students for certification and future career advancement, the program contributes to the college’s broader objectives of providing accessible, career-focused education that meets the evolving needs of the workforce.

    Overall, the Medical Assistant Certificate Program not only equips students with the essential skills to succeed in healthcare but also embodies Maria College’s mission of fostering excellence, innovation, and community impact in higher education.

    *bls.gov
    **Medical Assistant – Certified Salary in Albany, NY (July 01, 2025) | Salary.com

    • Course Objectives

      Educational Objectives:

      • Provide comprehensive instruction in both administrative and clinical tasks as outlined by New York State guidelines.
      • Develop a strong foundation in medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology to support understanding of clinical practices.
      • Equip students with the skills to perform key administrative tasks, such as updating patient records, handling insurance forms, billing and coding, and managing hospital admission documentation.
      • Offer hands-on training in clinical procedures, including obtaining medical histories, measuring vital signs, explaining medical procedures, and conducting tasks like phlebotomy, specimen collection, and electrocardiogram administration.
      • Foster critical thinking, effective communication, and ethical practices, ensuring that students can operate safely and effectively in diverse healthcare settings.

      Career Objectives:

      • Prepare graduates for entry-level roles in hospitals, clinics, and ambulatory settings where they will support healthcare teams.
      • Enable students to proficiently handle both clerical and clinical duties, ensuring smooth and effective office operations in healthcare facilities.
      • Position graduates to contribute meaningfully to patient care by efficiently managing tasks such as referrals, laboratory service coordination, and patient preparation for examinations.
      • Provide the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue national certification, enhancing career opportunities in the healthcare field.
      • Develop adaptable professionals who are prepared to meet the evolving demands of healthcare environments, ensuring safe, efficient, and patient-centered care.
    • Admissions Requirements

      • Completed Application for Admission to Maria College

        Submit a fully completed application to begin the admissions process.

      • High School Diploma or GED

        Provide an official high school transcript or proof of GED completion.

      • Minimum Age of 18

        Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrollment.

      • Interview with Program Advisor or Admissions Representative

        A required interview—held virtually or in person—helps assess program fit and provides an opportunity to ask questions.

      • Criminal Background Check and Drug Screening

        Mandatory for students entering clinical placements, in accordance with healthcare industry standards.

      • Basic Computer Literacy and Internet Access

        Students should possess basic computer skills and have access to a reliable internet-connected device to participate in hybrid/online components.

      • English Language Proficiency (if applicable)

        Applicants may need to demonstrate English proficiency through placement testing or academic records.

    • Course Sequence

      First Year: First Semester                 

      Course

      		 

      Credits

      CMA 100L

      Introduction to Medical Assisting

      4

      ENG 111

      Composition 1

      3

       

      		 

      7

      First Year: Second Semester

      CMA 101L

      Foundations of Medical Assisting

      4

      PBH 101

      Introduction to Public Health

      3

       

       

      7

      First Year: Third Semester

      CMA 102L

      Professional Experiences for Medical Assisting

      4

       

       

      4

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