The College of Southern Nevada (CSN) offers a structured 12-month Medical Assisting Program that combines online, hybrid, and in-person learning to prepare students for a career in healthcare. With accreditation from CAAHEP and eligibility to sit for multiple certification exams, this program aims to train students in both clinical and administrative medical assisting tasks.
Program Overview
CSN’s Medical Assisting Program is designed to equip students with essential skills for clinical and administrative roles in medical facilities. Through hybrid instruction, students complete most lectures online, while in-person labs are conducted on the Charleston and Henderson campuses. The curriculum covers key areas like medical terminology, anatomy, lab procedures, and office management, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education in medical assisting.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The program spans three semesters and includes 33 total credit hours, with a mix of general education and specialized program courses. Each semester, students take focused classes:
- First Semester: Courses cover medical terminology, introductory medical assisting, and health and disease basics.
- Second Semester: Topics include advanced medical assistant techniques, medical office management, and introductory lab procedures.
Third Semester: Students complete a clinical externship, gaining real-world experience, along with a seminar to reinforce practical skills.
Hybrid Learning Model
CSN offers a hybrid learning model that maximizes flexibility. Most coursework is delivered online, while labs are conducted in person, allowing students to gain hands-on skills essential for clinical work. The program’s in-person components occur at the Charleston and Henderson campuses, giving students practical experience in a controlled, supervised environment.
Certifications and Career Opportunities
Graduates from CSN’s program are eligible to take several certification exams: the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) by the American Association of Medical Assistants, the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) through NHA, the National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) by NCCT, and the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) by AMT. These certifications qualify graduates for various positions in clinical settings, from medical office assistants to lab technicians.
Program Outcomes
CSN’s Medical Assisting Program has demonstrated strong outcomes, with a five-year retention rate of 75.6% and a 100% pass rate on certification exams for 2022 graduates. These high pass rates underscore the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for certification and employment in the healthcare sector.
Prerequisites
Students interested in the Medical Assisting Program must meet specific prerequisites before applying:
- Academic Requirements: Completion of courses in Microsoft Office, composition, medical terminology, and introductory medical assisting.
- GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 for prerequisite courses.
Health Requirements: Proof of CPR certification, health insurance, and various immunizations, as well as a negative TB test, drug screening, and a criminal background check before starting the externship.
Admission Process
CSN’s Medical Assisting Program has selective entry, meaning students must complete all prerequisite courses by the application deadline. Admission is competitive, with limited seats available each semester. Applicants are evaluated on a points system, and prospective students must meet with a Health Programs Advisor and complete a Limited Entry Workshop.
Costs and Financial Information
The program tuition is $4,397.25, with additional costs for books (approximately $600) and miscellaneous expenses. CSN offers flexible financial aid options, including eligibility for federal financial aid and scholarships, making the program more accessible to students from various financial backgrounds.
Reasons to Consider This School
CSN’s Medical Assisting Program provides a robust hybrid learning experience with a focus on flexibility, making it ideal for students who prefer a combination of online and in-person learning. The accredited program prepares graduates for multiple certifications and offers strong job placement support. However, the selective admission process may require thorough preparation, and students should be aware of the upfront costs for tuition and supplies.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | $4,397.25 (plus approx. $600 for books and additional miscellaneous expenses) |
| Program Duration | Three semesters (total of 33 credit hours over 12 months) |
| Class Schedules | Hybrid: Online lectures with in-person labs on Charleston and Henderson campuses |
| Classes Offered | Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy, Medical Terminology, Anatomy, Clinical Externship |
| Admission Requirements | Selective entry; completion of prerequisites, health programs orientation, minimum 2.0 GPA, and health clearances |
| Online Classes? | Yes, hybrid model with online lectures and in-person labs |
| Job Placement? | Yes, assistance available |
| Financial Aid Options | Eligible for federal financial aid and scholarships |
| Locations | Charleston: 6375 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89146 Henderson: 700 College Dr. Henderson, NV 89002 North Las Vegas: 3200 East Cheyenne Ave. North Las Vegas, NV 89030 |
| Phone | Charleston: (702) 651-5000 Henderson: (702) 651-3000 North Las Vegas: (702) 651-4000 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | CSN Medical Assisting Program |
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