AAS in Medical Assisting

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  • Would you be comfortable assisting a physician with patient preparation, examinations, and patient relations?
  • Are you comfortable working with needles?
  • Are you comfortable dealing with blood and other bodily fluids?

The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program focuses on the laboratory, clinical, and medical office procedural skills needed to become a medical assistant. Learn more about Kaplan University's Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

The online Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program at Kaplan University offers students the opportunity to study anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. Students also examine medical law, bioethics, consent, contracts, and professional liability as related to the medical field, common diseases of the human body, and medical terminology. Additional coursework covers medical office management guidelines, medical office software applications, basic medical coding principles, and insurance terminology. Students also gain hands-on experience in a clinical practicum and externship. As a graduate, students may be eligible to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam given by the American Association of Medical Assistants, or the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam offered by the American Medical Technologists.

What Are the Prerequisites?

The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program could be utilized to prepare for certification as a medical assistant.* Applicants to Kaplan University's programs should have a high school diploma or GED and be a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. Since the program is offered online, applicants should have access to a computer.

What Are the Course Requirements?

The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program consists of 62 major credits, 15 core credits, and 15 open electives for a total of 92 credits. The program requires a 40-hour clinical-site practicum and a 160-hour externship at a clinic or physician's office. Additionally, you must pass a criminal background check and submit your medical history and immunization records.

Medical Assisting Major Course Requirements

  • Academic Strategies for the Health Care Professional
  • Medical Law and Bioethics
  • Medical Terminology
  • Anatomy and Physiology I
  • Anatomy and Physiology II
  • Pharmacology
  • Diseases of the Human Body
  • Medical Office Management
  • Medical Coding and Insurance
  • Professionalism in Health Care
  • Clinical Competencies I
  • Clinical Competencies II
  • Medical Assisting Externship and Evaluation

What Are My Post-Graduation Opportunities?

Career Opportunities

Kaplan University's Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program is designed to prepare you for entry-level positions in ambulatory health care settings, providing administrative and clinical assistance. Upon successful completion of the program you could also be eligible to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant or Registered Medical Assistant exams.* Entry-level positions you may wish to pursue include:

  • Medical assistant
  • Certified medical assistant
  • Registered medical assistant
  • Medical secretary

Advanced Degrees

The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program at Kaplan University can help you prepare for entry into the workplace or for continuing your education with a bachelor's degree. There are several health-related undergraduate programs available. Depending on your career goals, you could pursue one of the following degrees:

  • Bachelor of Science in Health Science
  • Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management