Medical Assisting, Degree (MA23) Degree
Purpose: The Medical Assisting Diploma prepares students to work as practitioners who can perform both administrative and clinical services, filling several roles in a variety of healthcare environments. The Bureau of Labor Statistics clearly outlines that it is a growth field, with an anticipated 18% growth from 2020 to 2030. Medical Assistants work directly with providers and patients, with the goal of providing healthcare and ensuring patient safety. It is a position with a great deal of responsibility. The program is designed to prepare medical assistants who are competent in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains to enter the profession.
Curriculum: Through classroom lecture, hands-on laboratory instruction and clinical experience, student will learn to: triage patients, perform vital signs, administer lab tests, perform venipunctures, administer immunizations, perform EKGs and work alongside the healthcare provider to assist in a variety of different procedures. Graduates of the program receive a Associate of Applied Science degree in Medical Assisting.
Careers: Certified Medical Assistant
Wiregrass Georgia Technical College’s medical assisting degree program was named Georgia’s best for 2020-21 by MedAssistantEDU.
Requirements:
- Submit a completed application and application fee
- Be at least 17 years of age
- Submit official high school transcript or High School Equivalency transcript or college transcripts showing successful completion of 60+ semester credits or 72+ quarter credits
- Submit official college transcripts, if applicable
- Present acceptable ACCUPLACER, ACT, ASSET, COMPASS, PSAT, or SAT scores or GED score of 145 or higher or have one of the following: an associate degree or higher or have a HOPE GPA of 2.6 after the completion of 10th grade. Documentation on a college transcript of successful completion of appropriate courses from a regionally accredited college or university may be accepted in lieu of test scores.
Additional Program Requirements:
- American Heart Association Provider CPR certification, physical examination or proof of ability to perform required duties, up-to-date immunizations, criminal background check and drug screen prior to performing the clinical rotation.
Start Terms:
- This program begins each Fall semester on the Valdosta campus.
| General Core Courses | 15 |
|---|---|
| Area I - Language Arts/Communication (3 Hours) | 3 |
| ENGL 1101Composition and Rhetoric
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 3 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): Degree Level Reading and Writing Scores Co-requisite(s): None Explores the analysis of literature and articles about issues in the humanities and in society. Students practice various modes of writing, ranging from exposition to argumentation and persuasion. The course includes a review of standard grammatical and stylistic usage in proofreading and editing. An introduction to library resources lays the foundation for research. Topics include writing analysis and practice, revision, and research. Students write a research paper using library resources and using a formatting and documentation style appropriate to the purpose and audience. |
3 |
| Area II - Social/Behavior Science (3 Hours) | 3 |
| PSYC 1101Introductory Psychology
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 3 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): Degree Level Reading and Writing Scores Co-requisite(s): None Introduces the major fields of contemporary psychology. Emphasis is on fundamental principles of psychology as a science. Topics include research design, the organization and operation of the nervous system, sensation and perception, learning and memory, motivation and emotion, thinking and intelligence, lifespan development, personality, psychopathology and interventions, stress and health, and social psychology. |
3 |
| Area III - Natural Sciences/Mathematics - Choose One of the Following (3 Hours) | 3 |
| MATH 1100Quantitative Skills and Reasoning
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 3 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): Degree Level Math Scores Co-requisite(s): None Emphasizes algebra, statistics, and mathematics of finance. Topics include fundamental operations of algebra, sets and logic, probability and statistics, geometry, mathematics of voting and districting, and mathematics of finance. |
3 |
| MATH 1101Mathematic Modeling
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 3 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): Degree Level Math Scores Co-requisite(s): None Emphasizes functions using real-world applications as models. Topics include fundamental concepts of algebra; functions and graphs; linear, quadratic, polynomial, exponential, and logarithmic functions and models; systems of equations; and optional topics in algebra. |
3 |
| MATH 1111College Algebra
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 3 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): Degree Level Math Scores Co-requisite(s): None Emphasizes techniques of problem solving using algebraic concepts. Topics include fundamental concepts of algebra, equations and inequalities, functions and graphs, and systems of equations; optional topics include sequences, series, and probability or analytic geometry. |
3 |
| MATH 1103Quantitative Skills and Reasoning
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 3 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): Degree Level Math Scores Co-requisite(s): None This course focuses on quantitative skills and reasoning in the context of experiences that students will be likely to encounter. The course emphasizes processing information in context from a variety of representations, understanding of both the information and the processing, and understanding which conclusions can be reasonably determined. Students will use appropriate technology to enhance mathematical thinking and understanding. Topics covered in this course include: sets and set operations, logic, basic probability, data analysis, linear models, quadratic models, exponential and logarithmic models, geometry, and financial management. |
3 |
| Area IV - Humanities/Fine Arts - Complete 3 Hours | 3 |
| General Education Core Elective - Complete 3 Hours | 3 |
| Occupational Courses | 47 |
|---|---|
| BIOL 2113Anatomy and Physiology I
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 3 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): Program Admission Co-requisite(s): BIOL 2113L, ENGL 1101 Introduces the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Emphasis is placed on the development of a systemic perspective of anatomical structures and physiological processes. Topics include body organization, cell structure and functions, tissue classifications, integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous and sensory systems. |
3 |
| BIOL 2113LAnatomy and Physiology I Lab
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 0 Lab 2 - 0 Lab - 3 Pre-requisite(s): Program Admission Co-requisite(s): BIOL 2113, ENGL 1101 Selected laboratory exercises paralleling the topics in BIOL 2113. The laboratory exercises for this course include body organization, cell structure and functions, tissue classifications, integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous sensory systems. |
1 |
| BIOL 2114Anatomy and Physiology II
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 3 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): BIOL 2113, BIOL 2113L w/ a “C” or better Co-requisite(s): BIOL 2114L Continues the study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Topics include the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, blood and lymphatic system, immune system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system,and reproductive system. |
3 |
| BIOL 2114LAnatomy and Physiology II Lab
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 0 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 3 Pre-requisite(s): BIOL 2113, BIOL 2113L w/ a “C” or better Co-requisite(s): BIOL 2114 Selected laboratory exercises paralleling the topics in BIOL 2114. The laboratory exercises for this course include the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, blood and lymphatic system, immune system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, and reproductive system. |
1 |
| ALHS 1090Medical Terminology for Allied Health Sciences
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 2 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): None Co-requisite(s): None Introduces the elements of medical terminology. Emphasis is placed on building familiarity with medical words through knowledge of roots, prefixes, and suffixes. Topics include: origins (roots, prefixes, and suffixes), word building, abbreviations and symbols, and terminology related to the human anatomy. |
2 |
| MAST 1100Medical Insurance Management
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 1 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 3 Pre-requisite(s): ALHS 1011, ALHS 1090, Program Admission Co-requisite(s): None Emphasizes essential skills required for the medical practice. Topics include managed care, reimbursement, and coding. |
2 |
| MAST 1010Legal and Ethical Concerns in the Medical Office
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 2 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): Program Admission Co-requisite(s): None Introduces the basic concept of medical assisting and its relationship to the other health fields. Emphasizes medical ethics, legal aspects of medicine, and the medical assistant's role as an agent of the physician. Provides the student with knowledge of medical jurisprudence and the essentials of professional behavior. Topics include: introduction to medical assisting; introduction to medical law; physician/patient/assistant relationship; medical office in litigation; as well as ethics, bioethical issues and HIPAA. |
2 |
| MAST 1030Pharmacology in the Medical Office
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 4 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): MATH 1012, Program Admission Co-requisite(s): None Introduces medication therapy with emphasis on safety; classification of medications; their actions; side effects; medication and food interactions and adverse reactions. Also introduces basic methods of arithmetic used in the administration of medications. Topics include: introductory pharmacology; dosage calculation; sources and forms of medications; medication classification; and medication effects on the body systems. |
4 |
| MAST 1060Medical Office Procedures
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 3 Lab 2 - 2 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): Program Admission Co-requisite(s): None Emphasizes essential skills required for the medical practice. Topics include: office protocol, time management, appointment scheduling, medical office equipment, medical references, mail services, medical records, and professional communication. |
4 |
| MAST 1080Medical Assisting Skills I
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 1 Lab 2 - 2 Lab 3 - 6 Pre-requisite(s): ALHS 1011, ALHS 1090, Program Admission Co-requisite(s): None Introduces the skills necessary for assisting the physician with a complete history and physical in all types of medical practices. The course includes skills necessary for sterilizing instruments and equipment and setting up sterile trays. The student also explores the theory and practice of electrocardiography. Topics include: infection control and related OSHA guidelines; prepare patients/assist physician with age and gender-specific examinations and diagnostic procedures; vital signs/mensuration; medical office surgical procedures and electrocardiography. |
4 |
| MAST 1090Medical Assisting Skills II
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 1 Lab 2 - 2 Lab 3 - 6 Pre-requisite(s): ALHS 1011, ALHS 1090, Program Admission Co-requisite(s): None Furthers student knowledge of the more complex activities in a physician's office. Topics include: collection/examination of specimens and CLIA regulations/risk management; urinalysis; venipuncture; hematology and chemistry evaluations; advanced reagent testing (Strep Test, HcG etc); administration of medications; medical office emergency procedures and emergency preparedness; respiratory evaluations; principles of IV administration; rehabilitative therapy procedures; principles of radiology safety and maintenance of medication and immunization records. |
4 |
| MAST 1110Administrative Practice Management
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 1 Lab 2 - 2 Lab 3 - 3 Pre-requisite(s): ALHS 1011, ALHS 1090 Co-requisite(s): None Emphasizes essential skills required for medical practice in the areas of computers and medical transcription. Topics include medical transcription/electronic health records; application of computer skills; integration of medical terminology; accounting procedures; and application of the software. |
3 |
| MAST 1120Human Diseases
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 2 Lab 2 - 2 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): ALHS 1011, ALHS 1090 Co-requisite(s): None Provides fundamental information concerning common diseases and disorders of each body system. For each system, the disease or disorder is highlighted inlcuding: description, etiology, signs and symptoms, diagnostic procedures, treatment, management, prognosis, and prevention. Topics include: introduction to disease and diseases of body systems. |
3 |
| MAST 1170Medical Assisting Externship
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 0 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 10.5 Pre-requisite(s): None Co-requisite(s): MAST 1180 Provides students with an opportunity for in-depth application and reinforcement of principles and techniques in a medical office job setting. This clinical practicum allows the student to become involved in a work setting at a professional level of technical application and requires concentration, practice, and follow-through. Topics include the application of classroom knowledge and skills and functioning in the work environment. |
4 |
| MAST 1180Medical Assisting Seminar
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 4 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-requisite(s): None Co-requisite(s): MAST 1170 Seminar focuses on job preparation and maintenance skills and reviews for the certification examination. Topics include letters of application, resumes, completing a job application, job interviews, follow-up letter/call, letters of resignation, and review of program competencies for employment and certification. |
4 |
| Choose One of the Following (3 Hours) | 3 |
| COLL 1010College and Career Success Skills
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture - 2 Lab 2 - 0.5 Lab 3 - 2.5 Pre-Requisites: None Co-Requisite: None This course is designed to assist the learner to acquire skills necessary to achieve academic, personal, and professional success and to improve student retention. Areas of importance include Getting off to a Good Start, Learning and Personality Styles, Time and Personal Financial Management, Stress Management and Wellness, Studying and Test Taking Skills, Communication Skills, Career Planning and Goal Setting, Computer Applications/Technology Skills and Employability/Professional Skills. |
3 |
| COMP 2000Intro. to Technology and Computer Application
Weekly Contact Hours: Lecture-3 Lab 2 - 0 Lab 3 - 0 Pre-Requisites: Program Admission Co-Requisite: None This course provides an introduction to computer applications for the development of analytical and problem-solving workplace skills. The course introduces the fundamental concepts, terminology, and operations necessary to use computers. Topics include file management, word processing software, database software, spreadsheet software, and presentation software skill development. The course also introduces terminology related to computer hardware, computer networks, and social and ethical concepts. |
3 |
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Notice and Responsibilities Regarding this Catalog
The information in this College Catalog and Student Handbook accurately reflects current policies and procedures at the time of publication. Students are admitted to the College under and are subject to the provisions of the WGTC Catalog and Student Handbooks for the term they initially enroll. Students in all programs are admitted under and are subject to the provisions of the College Catalog and Student Handbook and applicable addendums for the term they are admitted to the program at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College. If for any reason a break in enrollment occurs, students must reapply and satisfy the College Catalog and Student Handbook requirements for the term of their re-entry to any program. The provisions of this catalog are not to be regarded as an irrevocable contract between Wiregrass Georgia Technical College and the student. The College reserves the right to change any provision or requirement at any time.
