Medical Assistant — Associate of Applied Science

Program Overview

The Medical Assistant Associate of Applied Science degree program prepares students in various aspects of medical assisting, pharmacology and dosage calculations, health care administration, and medical law and ethics. Students can select from one of the four concentration areas: Electronic Medical Records, Patient Experience, Medical Scribe, or General Concentration.

What you'll learn

  • Obtain an understanding of the principles of verbal and non‐verbal communication.
  • Apply deductive and inductive arguments, the role of language in critical thinking, and use of critical thinking in research to construct and write arguments.
  • Explain the relationship between nutrition and functions of each system of the body, the components of a healthy diet, and physiology of the digestive system.
  • Have a foundation of computer skills and knowledge needed to utilize applications relevant to the Medical Assisting profession.
  • Interpret drug orders, labels and inserts; types and uses of dosage equipment, and how to correctly calculate the amount of medical to administer to patients.
  • Attain fundamental knowledge of different types of cells, application of genomics and biotechnology, and understand the processes of ingestion, excretion, respiratory systems, sensory organs, nervous system, and circulatory systems of vertebrates and invertebrates.
  • Utilize time‐management skills to complete assignments on time and around their personal schedule.
  • Develop interpersonal skills through online collaboration, discussion, and participation with peers, faculty and staff.
  • Have the ability to meet deadlines, communicate effectively, and work well in group environments.
  • Know how to prevent emergencies, respond quickly and efficiently to medical emergencies, and prevent further injuries and death during medical emergencies.
  • Recognize the signs and symptoms of altered medical states, seizures, heat and cold emergencies, and behavioral emergencies, and explain care of these emergencies.
  • Assess bleeding, shock, wounds, and burns and describe treatment using appropriate dressings and bandages.
  • Assess airway and breathing, to clear obstructions, and provide supplemental oxygen.
  • Define assessment and its role in preventative health.
  • Analyze and assess various diseases and disorders and the corresponding assessments.