Though medical assistants job descriptions vary from office to office, they generally have a set of shared duties and tasks. Medical assistants aid doctors by performing basic clinical procedures and handling a variety of administrative duties. They work in medical clinics, private practices, and hospitals to help keep operations running smoothly and efficiently. The Medical Assisting program at Carrington College is comprised of three educational areas: Clinical, Administrative, and Externship. Students enhance skills such as word-processing, typing, and keyboarding. Throughout the program, professionalism, client relations, critical thinking, adherence to the ethical and legal requirements of a medical practice, and proper communication skills are emphasized. Graduates are prepared to function competently at an entry-level in a variety of medical settings. Online certificate: All courses in this program are offered in an online format, except the in-person externship that is completed at an approved healthcare setting.