The Certificate in Medical Assistant program provides the technical skills and work habits required to seek entry-level positions as Medical Assistants. The computer technology and word processing facets of the curriculum enhance students potential for employment. Prior to graduation, students are required to complete a 180-hour externship program at a local clinic, physicians office, hospital, HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), or other allied health ambulatory facility. This program requires that students pass a certification exam in Medical Assistant prior to externship. In addition to attendance in all courses, students will be required to complete out-of-class assignments. These assignments include but are not limited to reading, exercises and problem solving, projects, research, papers, and presentations. A student can anticipate out-of-class activities that equal about two (2) hours for every one (1) hour of lecture. Upon successful completion of the program (see Graduation Requirements section of the catalog), students could seek or obtain entry-level employment in a medical assistant related field.