Mar 28, 2024  
SFCC Catalog 2019-2020 
    
SFCC Catalog 2019-2020 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Medical Assisting, A.A.S.


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CIP: 51.0801

School of Sciences, Health, Engineering and Math, 505-428‐1907

This program encompasses the competencies necessary for a professional Medical Assistant. Specific education includes performing administrative and clinical procedures in settings such as physician offices, clinics and ambulatory settings. Courses are sequenced to build skill level. Medical Assisting is a growing occupation in New Mexico and the United States. This program of study is oriented to students who have an aptitude for organization and health-care systems. The goal of the program is to prepare competent entry-level medical assistants in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains essential to providing safe and caring services. The certificate in this program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). Upon completion of this program, graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam for medical assisting.

Admission Requirements


Eligibility for application to the medical assisting program includes the following: successful completion of MATH 102  (or placement equivalent). Math and Biology courses must have been completed within five years prior to enrollment in the Medical Assisting Program. An application process is required; call 505-428-1907 well before the open registration date for fall.

Prospective students who have been convicted of a felony are advised to contact the Department of Health and the Medical Assisting Education Review Board prior to admission to determine their eligibility for certification. Fingerprinting for background checks, drug testing, and proof of recommended vaccinations are required once students are accepted into the program. All students must meet the stated requirements of each assigned clinical site to qualify for placement.

NOTE: A.A.S. degrees are designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in specific occupations; they are not generally intended to transfer to four-year institutions. For more information on transfer, refer to the Transfer of Credit  section, or speak with an academic adviser.

Students can also earn the following certificates included in this degree:

Program Learning Outcomes


Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Perform major operational functions of the medical office, including basic medical bookkeeping, scheduling and other office functions.
  • Measure vital signs and prepare patients for examinations and clinical tests.
  • Accurately and safely perform laboratory and clinical testing and specimen preparation.
  • Communicate effectively and compassionately with patients of varying ages, cultures and education levels.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally with medical personnel.
  • Demonstrate a basic understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the human body.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of various biomedical legal and ethical issues.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in medical assisting competencies.

General Education Requirements: (20 Credits Min.)


Mathematics (3 Credits Min.)


Social/Behavioral Science (3 Credits)


Humanities (3 Credits)


Health and Wellness (1 Credit)


Total 63.5 Credits


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