• Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting

    The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting degree at Kaplan University is designed to prepare you to enter one of the fastest-growing, most versatile professions in the health care industry.* As a medical assistant, you will interact with patients, physicians, and other health care providers on a regular basis. Through a combination of traditional teaching and hands-on training, this program is designed to help you acquire the knowledge and skills required to become a professional medical assistant.

    Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting Program Highlights

    In the medical assisting program, you will study to develop career skills such as:

    • Assisting physicians in patient preparation and examination
    • Communicating professionally and providing instructions to patients
    • Performing routine laboratory tests, such as blood work, venipuncture, urinalysis, and electrocardiograms
    • Recording patients' vital signs and managing patient records

    Gain Real-World Experience

    Our Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program is available both online†and at our campuses. Prior to graduation, you will be required to complete clinical training and an externship at a real-world health care facility to gain valuable on-the-job experience health care employers demand.

    The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program and the Medical Assisting Certificate program offered at the campuses in the states of Iowa, Maryland, and Nebraska are 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
    1361 Park Street
    Clearwater, FL 33756
    Tel: 727.210.2350
    www.caahep.org 

    The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program offered online and at campuses in the state of Maine is not accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

    Prepare for Certification

    Certification is an important qualification often required by employers. Online and onsite graduates may be eligible to take the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam offered by the American Medical Technologists, the National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) exam given by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), and the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam given by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).‡ 

    Graduates of a campus-based program offered in Iowa, Maryland, or Nebraska may be eligible to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) examination offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants.

    What are the Career Opportunities?

    This degree is designed to prepare you to seek entry-level employment as a medical assistant in physicians' offices, hospitals, and health clinics. Most medical assistants work in private practices, but many opportunities are available in hospitals and health clinics. Once established in your career, you may enjoy further opportunities, such as specialization in a field of your choice.

  • Kaplan University offers multiple start dates, giving you greater flexibility with your education, life, and work schedules.

    Jun 05

    Online Start Date
    Jun 05, 2013

    Jul 03

    Online and Hagerstown Start Date
    Jul 03, 2013

    Jul 31

    Online and Campus Start Date
    Jul 31, 2013

    View the Academic Calendar

  • Curriculum: Online and Maine Campuses

    Core

    100/200 LEVEL: COMMUNICATION COURSE (5  Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 15
    Total Program Credits: 92

    100/200 LEVEL: MATHEMATICS COURSE (5 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 15
    Total Program Credits: 92

    200 LEVEL: COMMUNICATION COURSE (5 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 15
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Major

    HS 101: MEDICAL LAW AND BIOETHICS (5 Credits)

    This course emphasizes the basic principles and applications of law, ethics, and bioethics as they relate to the medical arena. It covers legal terms, consent, contracts, physician/patient relationships, professional liability, and various medical issues. Through lectures, class discussions, case studies, and library research, students acquire knowledge of the importance of their professional, legal, and ethical responsibilities.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    HS 111: MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY (5 Credits)

    This course provides a logical understanding of the language of medicine. Basic prefixes, suffixes, word roots, and rules for taking a singular term and making it plural are studied, along with word analysis, word building, spelling, and pronunciation. These principles are applied to study the following systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscle/joints, blood and lymphatic, nervous, respiratory, and cardiovascular. Each body system is reviewed with anatomy and physiology; diagnostic, lab, and surgical procedures; as well as pharmacology for interest and knowledge.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    HS 120: ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I (5 Credits)

    This course is an integrated study of the human body. The focus is on understanding the interrelated nature of the systems of the body. This includes the concept of homeostasis as well as the relationship between structure and function. This course encompasses the anatomy of selected systems as well as the physiology and terminology as applied to the body. The course presents the chemical basis of life and provides a basic understanding of cells, cellular metabolism, and tissue composition and functions. The course also includes the study of the structures and functions of the following systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, and senses.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    HS 130: ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II (5 Credits)

    This course is the continuation of integrated study of the human body. This course encompasses the anatomy of selected systems as well as the physiology and terminology as applied to the body. The course also includes the study of the structures and functions of the following systems: circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive.

    Prerequisites Required:

    HS 120

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    HS 140: PHARMACOLOGY (5 Credits)

    This course is a systematic study of basic pharmacology principles with emphasis on the skills and information needed to succeed in a working environment. Topics covered include drug classes, dosage calculations and measurement conversions, drug administration routes, and proper medication documentation procedures.

    Prerequisites Required: MM 150

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    HS 200: DISEASES OF THE HUMAN BODY (5 Credits)

    Studies include the most common diseases of bodily systems, including disease etiology, symptoms, diagnostic tests, therapeutic methods, and disease prognosis. Students also study alternative treatments and pain management.

    Prerequisites Required: HS 130 or PU 120

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    HS 210: MEDICAL OFFICE MANAGEMENT (5 Credits)

    The course explores procedural guidelines for accomplishing various administrative tasks in the health care setting. Topics include management of patient information, medical office software skills, and general workplace competencies of health care employees.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    HS 220: MEDICAL CODING AND INSURANCE (5 Credits)

    Using ICD-9-CM, CPT, and HCPCS codes, students learn basic coding principles used in filing insurance claims. Students also become acquainted with various types of health insurance and insurance terminology.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    MA 250: PROFESSIONALISM IN HEALTH CARE† (1 Credits)

    This course will focus on the aspects of professionalism that a health care professional needs in order to successfully work in a medical office setting, including communication skills, personal appearance, and interpersonal interactions. The course will prepare students for the clinical experience.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    MA 260: CLINICAL COMPETENCIES I (5 Credits)

    This course introduces students to the educational theory of procedures commonly performed in a health care setting with special attention to understanding how aseptic technique, documentation, and safety apply to each skill. Specific competencies will include: health history, vital signs, specialty exams, sterilization, minor surgical procedures, and surgical asepsis.

    Prerequisites Required: HS 130

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    MA 270: CLINICAL COMPETENCIES II (5 Credits)

    This course introduces students to the educational theory of procedures commonly performed in a health care setting with special attention to understanding how aseptic technique, documentation, and safety apply to each skill.  Specific competencies will include: phlebotomy, specimen processing, growth charts, instrumentation, methods of quality control, capillary puncture, CLIA-waived testing, microbiology procedures, urinalysis, and administering medications.

    Prerequisites Required: MA 260

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    MA 280: CLINICAL COMPETENCIES III (1 Credits)

    This course will focus on the performance of clinical skills in an approved medical facility or educational medical lab, as appropriate. Students will complete a minimum of 50 hours and all required competency skills.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    MA 290: MEDICAL ASSISTING EXTERNSHIP AND EVALUATION (5 Credits)

    Successful completion of this course will require 160 hours of clinical and administrative experience at an approved health care setting. Students will be evaluated on the performance of expected competencies at the end of the course. The course requires a final presentation. The online version of MA 290 requires each student to work with the School of Health Sciences clinical staff to locate an externship site a minimum of two terms prior to beginning the externship.

    Prerequisites Required: MA 270; final term of study

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    HS 100: INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH SCIENCE (5 Credits)

    In this required introductory course, students will identify current issues in health science and how they relate to chosen health science professions. Educational and credentialing requirements will be defined for health science occupations. Students will create a personal education plan, choosing appropriate electives and identifying specific career optionsbased on personal goals and research of the profession. Professional traits and skills for success in the field will be explored as well as discussion of roles and responsibilities of selected health professionals.

    CS 121: PATHWAYS TO ACADEMIC SUCCESS (ONSITE ONLY) (5 Credits)

    Designed to facilitate personal and professional success, this course introduces students to the purposes and processes of university education. An emphasis is placed on study, communication, and thinking skills that support academic achievement. Students also examine the relationship between learning and motivation. (Onsite only)

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Online students will take HS 100: Introduction to Health Sciences. Students enrolled at a campus in the state of Maine may substitute HS 275: Professionalism in Health Care in place of MA 250: Professionalism in Health Care and MA 280: Clinical Competencies III.

    Open Elective

    OPEN ELECTIVES (15 Credits)

    Total Open Elective Credits: 15
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Core

    100/200 LEVEL: COMMUNICATION COURSE (5  Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 15
    Total Program Credits: 92

    100/200 LEVEL: MATHEMATICS COURSE (5 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 15
    Total Program Credits: 92

    200 LEVEL: COMMUNICATION COURSE (5 Credits)

    Total Core Credits: 15
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Major

    HS 101: MEDICAL LAW AND BIOETHICS (5 Credits)

    This course emphasizes the basic principles and applications of law, ethics, and bioethics as they relate to the medical arena. It covers legal terms, consent, contracts, physician/patient relationships, professional liability, and various medical issues. Through lectures, class discussions, case studies, and library research, students acquire knowledge of the importance of their professional, legal, and ethical responsibilities.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    HS 111: MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY (5 Credits)

    This course provides a logical understanding of the language of medicine. Basic prefixes, suffixes, word roots, and rules for taking a singular term and making it plural are studied, along with word analysis, word building, spelling, and pronunciation. These principles are applied to study the following systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscle/joints, blood and lymphatic, nervous, respiratory, and cardiovascular. Each body system is reviewed with anatomy and physiology; diagnostic, lab, and surgical procedures; as well as pharmacology for interest and knowledge.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    HS 120: ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I (5 Credits)

    This course is an integrated study of the human body. The focus is on understanding the interrelated nature of the systems of the body. This includes the concept of homeostasis as well as the relationship between structure and function. This course encompasses the anatomy of selected systems as well as the physiology and terminology as applied to the body. The course presents the chemical basis of life and provides a basic understanding of cells, cellular metabolism, and tissue composition and functions. The course also includes the study of the structures and functions of the following systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, and senses.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    HS 130: ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II (5 Credits)

    This course is the continuation of integrated study of the human body. This course encompasses the anatomy of selected systems as well as the physiology and terminology as applied to the body. The course also includes the study of the structures and functions of the following systems: circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive.

    Prerequisites Required:

    HS 120

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    HS 140: PHARMACOLOGY (5 Credits)

    This course is a systematic study of basic pharmacology principles with emphasis on the skills and information needed to succeed in a working environment. Topics covered include drug classes, dosage calculations and measurement conversions, drug administration routes, and proper medication documentation procedures.

    Prerequisites Required: MM 150

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    HS 200: DISEASES OF THE HUMAN BODY (5 Credits)

    Studies include the most common diseases of bodily systems, including disease etiology, symptoms, diagnostic tests, therapeutic methods, and disease prognosis. Students also study alternative treatments and pain management.

    Prerequisites Required: HS 130 or PU 120

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    HS 210: MEDICAL OFFICE MANAGEMENT (5 Credits)

    The course explores procedural guidelines for accomplishing various administrative tasks in the health care setting. Topics include management of patient information, medical office software skills, and general workplace competencies of health care employees.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    HS 220: MEDICAL CODING AND INSURANCE (5 Credits)

    Using ICD-9-CM, CPT, and HCPCS codes, students learn basic coding principles used in filing insurance claims. Students also become acquainted with various types of health insurance and insurance terminology.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    HS 275: PROFESSIONALISM IN HEALTH CARE (2 Credits)

    This course introduces students to professionalism in the medical setting. Emphasis is placed upon communication, appearance, diversity, emergency preparedness, and preparation of the professional portfolio. Students prepare a portfolio that contains job search documents.

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    MA 260: CLINICAL COMPETENCIES I (5 Credits)

    This course introduces students to the educational theory of procedures commonly performed in a health care setting with special attention to understanding how aseptic technique, documentation, and safety apply to each skill. Specific competencies will include: health history, vital signs, specialty exams, sterilization, minor surgical procedures, and surgical asepsis.

    Prerequisites Required: HS 130

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    MA 270: CLINICAL COMPETENCIES II (5 Credits)

    This course introduces students to the educational theory of procedures commonly performed in a health care setting with special attention to understanding how aseptic technique, documentation, and safety apply to each skill.  Specific competencies will include: phlebotomy, specimen processing, growth charts, instrumentation, methods of quality control, capillary puncture, CLIA-waived testing, microbiology procedures, urinalysis, and administering medications.

    Prerequisites Required: MA 260

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    MA 290: MEDICAL ASSISTING EXTERNSHIP AND EVALUATION (5 Credits)

    Successful completion of this course will require 160 hours of clinical and administrative experience at an approved health care setting. Students will be evaluated on the performance of expected competencies at the end of the course. The course requires a final presentation. The online version of MA 290 requires each student to work with the School of Health Sciences clinical staff to locate an externship site a minimum of two terms prior to beginning the externship.

    Prerequisites Required: MA 270; final term of study

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    HS 100: INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH SCIENCE (5 Credits)

    In this required introductory course, students will identify current issues in health science and how they relate to chosen health science professions. Educational and credentialing requirements will be defined for health science occupations. Students will create a personal education plan, choosing appropriate electives and identifying specific career optionsbased on personal goals and research of the profession. Professional traits and skills for success in the field will be explored as well as discussion of roles and responsibilities of selected health professionals.

    CS 121: PATHWAYS TO ACADEMIC SUCCESS (ONSITE ONLY) (5 Credits)

    Designed to facilitate personal and professional success, this course introduces students to the purposes and processes of university education. An emphasis is placed on study, communication, and thinking skills that support academic achievement. Students also examine the relationship between learning and motivation. (Onsite only)

    Total Major Credits: 62
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Elective

    OPEN ELECTIVES (15 Credits)

    Total Elective Credits: 15
    Total Program Credits: 92

    Tuition & Fees: Online and Maine Campuses

    The 25% tuition reduction applies only to international students living outside of the United States. This discount does not apply to military students. Please check with your advisor to see if you are eligible. 

    The 25% tuition reduction applies only to international students living outside of the United States. This discount does not apply to military students. Please check with your advisor to see if you are eligible. 

    Online and Maine Campuses Online &
    Learning Center     		Campus
    Cost Per Credit
    Number of Credits / Terms  
    Total Tuition Cost

    Tuition and Fees

    Some programs have additional associated fees that are not included in the price of tuition. Click here or check with an Admissions Advisor for more information. 

    Learn More about Kaplan University Tuition and Fees  

    Notice to Learning Center Students

    Kaplan University Learning Center students will only complete a portion of this program on site. You will need to complete at least 50% of the program requirements online, or through transfer credit awarded via prior learning assessment. If you have any questions about these requirements, please speak with an admissions advisor.

    Scholarships and Grants

    Learn more about grants and Kaplan University Scholarships and that may help reduce the cost of your education.

    Kaplan University tuition reductions (including active-duty, spouse, and veterans military tuition rates; scholarships; grants; vouchers; and alumni and alliance reductions) cannot be combined. 

    Tuition Rates for Military Students and Spouses

    Kaplan University has significantly reduced many of our tuition rates and fees for active-duty servicemembers, their spouses, and veterans. Click here for more information.
     

  • Some states have additional curricular requirements. Check the University Catalog or speak with an Admissions Advisor.

  • *  Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012–2013 Edition, Medical Assistants, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm (accessed April 2012). Expected national growth rate through the year 2020. National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth.

    † Some Kaplan University programs are not 100 percent online; some programs require you to gain hands-on experience in a real-world work environment.

    ‡ Although certain programs at Kaplan University are designed to prepare students to take various certification or licensing exams, the University cannot guarantee the student will pass those exams. In some cases, field experience, additional coursework, and/or background checks may be necessary to take or to successfully pass the exams.

Health Sciences

Request Information

  • Step 1 of 3
  • Call Now: 866 KAPLAN U

Featured

  • Military Self Enroll promo new
  • 75th anniversary
  • Kaplan Commitment