Medical Assistant
| Degree Type | Program Number | Program Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical Diploma | 315091 | MEAT | 28.00 |
| Typical Start | Learning Format | Financial Aid | Estimated Cost | Location | Area of Interest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hybrid | Available | 4950 | La Crosse | Health Sciences |
As a medical assistant (MA), you would be an indispensable member of a healthcare team, directly assisting a physician or RN. This program prepares you for an active role in providing care-assisting with examinations, carrying out select medical and diagnostic procedures, collecting specimens, and performing routine laboratory tests.
The program focuses on laboratory and clinical procedures, insurance and finance, medical terminology, and skills to keep a medical office running smoothly. You'll also get valuable on-the-job experience. Graduates become medical assistants, laboratory assistants, phlebotomists, insurance clerks, and electrocardiogram technicians in a variety of medical settings.
Read our blog to get a glimpse into a day in the life of a Medical Assistant.
For information about Western’s Medical Assistant program retention and pass rates, please click here (PDF).
To view the Medical Assistant program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here (PDF).
Admissions Requirements
- Apply at www.westerntc.edu/how-to-apply
- Western’s Admission Coaches are available to help you through the application process. Have questions or need advice? Call 608-785-9200 or email AdmissionsCoach@westerntc.edu.
- Western must comply with a Waiting List Policy when academic programs meet capacity. This policy adheres to Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter TCS10.07.
Additional Requirements
- High School or GED/HSED Transcript
- To enroll in the Medical Assistant program, first apply for admission to the College, then electronically sign the program's Technical Standards and complete a background check. You can find links to these documents below.
- Medical Assistant Technical Standards
- Background Check (PDF)
- If COVID vaccines are required by a clinical partner, you will be notified.
Career Opportunities
Certified Medical Assistant
Medical Assistant
Registered Medical Assistant
Phlebotomist
Program Outcomes
- Perform medical office administrative functions
- Provide patient care in accordance with regulations, policies, laws, and patient rights
- Perform medical laboratory procedures
- Demonstrate professionalism in a healthcare setting
- Demonstrate safety and emergency practices in a healthcare setting
Accreditation
The Medical Assistant program at Western Technical College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org), upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB).
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs
9355 – 113th St. N. #7709
Seminole, FL 33775
727-210-2350
www.caahep.org
Graduation Employment Stats - 2023, 2024, & 2025
| Graduates | 81 |
|---|---|
| Graduates Responding | 30 |
| Employed In Related Occupation | 13 |
| Employed In Non-related Occupations | 2 |
| Seeking Employment | 1 |
| Continuing Education | 14 |
| Not In Labor Market | 0 |
| Graduates Responding Employed Part Time in Related Occupation | 5 |
| PT Average Hours per Week | 28 |
| PT Median Hourly Wage | $19.08 |
| PT Hourly Wage Range | $18.50 - $20.00 |
| PT Median Annual Salary | $33,600 |
| Graduates Responding Employed Full Time in Related Occupation | 8 |
| FT Average Hours per Week | 43 |
| FT Median Hourly Wage | $19.01 |
| FT Hourly Wage Range | $17.81 - $20.87 |
| FT Median Annual Salary | $36,000 |
| Related Occupations | Laboratory Assistant, Ma, Medical Assistant |
Software & Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Additional Information
Our Health and Public Safety programs are required to report additional information to prospective students, including certification exams, licensure, program completion rates, etc. You can find this information in the documents/links below:
- Program Retention and Pass Rates (PDF)
- Student Handbook (PDF)
- Supplemental Information (PDF)
- Occupational Risks (PDF)
- Advanced Placement
- Transfer of Credits
- Credits for Prior Learning
Program Contact
Julie Czaplewski
Program Chair, Medical Assistant
608-789-6175
CzaplewskiJ@westerntc.edu
Courses
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 31509302 - Human Body in Health & Disease | 3.00 |
| 31509301 - Medical Asst Admin Procedures | 2.00 |
| 31509304 - Medical Asst Clin Procedures 1 | 4.00 |
| 31509303 - Medical Asst Lab Procedures 1 | 2.00 |
| 31509320 - Medical Terminology for MA | 2.00 |
| 31890300 - Strengths Seminar (Technical Diploma) | 1.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 31509307 - Med Office Insurance & Finance | 2.00 |
| 31509310 - Medical Assistant Practicum | 3.00 |
| 31509306 - Medical Asst Clin Procedures 2 | 3.00 |
| 31509305 - Medical Asst Lab Procedures 2 | 2.00 |
| 31509309 - Medical Law, Ethics & Profess | 2.00 |
| 31509308 - Pharm for Allied Health | 2.00 |