Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the job market for Medical Assistants?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics: Employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 29 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. The growth of the aging baby-boom population will continue to increase demand for preventive medical services, which are often provided by physicians. As a result, physicians will hire more assistants to perform routine administrative and clinical duties, allowing the physicians to see more patients.
An increasing number of group practices, clinics, and other healthcare facilities will also need support workers, particularly medical assistants, to complete both administrative and clinical duties. Medical assistants work mostly in primary care, a steadily growing sector of the healthcare industry.
What is the job market for Medical Assistants in Columbus, Ohio?
Medical Assistants are currently in high demand in Ohio.
What is the average pay for a Medical Assistant?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean hourly wage for a Medical Assistant is $19.57/hour with a mean annual wage of $40,700. This is typically a starting wage which will increase with experience and time.
Do I have to apply to the college before you can apply to the Medical Assisting Program?
Yes. You must apply for admission to the college before you can apply to the Medical Assisting Program.
Do I have to attend the infosession?
Yes. A requirement for entrance into the Medical Assisting Program is to attend an infosession. Infosession dates and times are listed under Admission Requirements.
May I take other courses while I am waiting to apply to the Medical Assisting Program?
Yes. You can take any courses on the plan of study except Medical Assisting Technology courses. It is advisable that you take as many general and basic courses on the plan of study as possible before entering the cohort year. Biology’s and English are the first courses recommended after completion of the prerequisites.
Will credits transfer from other colleges that I have attended? Which courses will transfer?
Transcripts must be reviewed by the Records and Registration Office at CSCC, and this department determines whether your credits will transfer.
When are Medical Assisting classes held?
The Medical Assisting Program is a dayshift program. Classes are held Monday – Thursday, 8:00 am – approximately 3:00 pm.
Are the Medical Assisting classes online?
No. Medical Assisting Technology courses are taught at the CSCC main campus in Union Hall. However, the degree courses, general and basic courses may be taken on-line.
Are students required to participate in a clinical practicum?
Yes, students are required to participate in an externship (clinical practicum) experience during the summer session. Students are required to work 210 unpaid externship hours (approximately 23.5 hours per week).
Is the program accredited?
Yes. The Columbus State Community College Medical Assisting Certificate Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB).
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
9355-113TH ST. N, #7709 Seminole, FL 33775
P: 727-210-2350 F: 727-210-2354 E: mail@caahep.org
Is it possible to work in the field of Medical Assisting once I receive my certificate for Medical Assisting, or must I wait until I receive my degree in Medical Assisting?
Yes, once you receive your certificate you can work immediately. Many of the Medical Assisting Technology students are working in the field while finishing the degree.
Do I have to maintain a certain grade point average during the program?
Yes. Students must maintain a 2.0 to remain in the Medical Assisting Program.
For further questions about our program, please call or email:
(614) 287-2521
mat@cscc.edu