KSU's Medical Assisting Program Combines Fast-Track Learning With Real-World Experience

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the medical assisting field is expected grow much faster than average for all occupations in the coming years.

“The aging population in need of treatment is creating a demand in the healthcare field,” said Andrea Cochran, program director for the Medical Assisting certificate program at KSU’s College of Continuing and Professional Education. “The number of physicians' offices and outpatient care facilities continues to grow to meet the needs of communities across the nation.”

Medical assistants are often found working in private practices, hospitals, nursing homes and other healthcare facilities. Their responsibility can vary with the specialty and size of a medical office, and they can perform both clinical and administrative tasks. A medical assistant’s duties can include taking patient histories and assessments, checking vital signs, performing laboratory tests and administering injections.

The 14-month continuing education program teaches students human anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, medical office procedures, pharmacology, medical ethics, and clinical procedures. The program also assists students in preparing for the National Health Career Association Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. The program concludes with a 2-month, 180-hour externship in a physician’s office or urgent care facility.

“If you’re considering medical assisting as your next career move, you’ll want to ensure you’re receiving top-notch education,” Cochran said. “Our program includes lecture and hands-on training from instructors who are experts in their respective fields.”

Kerry Ruthsatz, 2016 graduate, said she chose KSU due to its good reputation with medical and nursing programs. Prior to enrolling the in the program, Ruthsatz worked nearly two decades as emergency medical technician and paramedic. Her prior knowledge and years of service helped her in the program.

“The most important things I learned were the administration roles including the ethics and law information,” Ruthsatz said. “I did not have that background before.”

Ruthsatz completed her externship at a medical office in Marietta. She said she learned several aspects of being a medical assistant through her externship role. Her experience and the knowledge she obtained combined with her dedication during her externship led Ruthsatz to a full-time position at the medical office.

“I'm very grateful to KSU,” Ruthsatz said.

The Medical Assisting certificate program is one of KSU’s VA-approved programs, which allows Post 9/11 veterans to use their GI Bill. KSU’s Continuing Education also has eight additional healthcare-related certificate programs approved for VA Education Benefits.

“Our goal is to provide students the resources they need to be successful in the field,” Cochran said. “We want our graduates to be prepared as they enter the workforce.”

For more information, visit ccpe.kennesaw.edu or call 470-578-6765.