Southern Technical College provides solid options for students in Tampa who want to begin their healthcare careers. The Medical Assisting Diploma and Associate of Science (AS) programs equip students with the knowledge and skills to handle both administrative and clinical tasks in various medical settings. Classes emphasize practical skills such as patient care, medical records management, drawing blood, administering medications, and office administration.
Diploma vs. Associate Degree: Which One to Choose?
Medical Assisting Diploma Program:
The Diploma program lasts 40 weeks and totals 51 credits. It’s designed to quickly prepare students for entry-level positions. Students learn core medical assistant duties such as:
- Measuring vital signs
- Patient histories
- Blood draws
- Medical office management tasks
This diploma is ideal for those who prefer a quicker route into healthcare and do not require advanced general education courses. Upon completion, students can sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam.
Medical Assisting Associate of Science Degree:
The Associate of Science degree takes 72 weeks and consists of 96 credits, including 24 credits of general education classes. This option covers all diploma courses plus broader education in communication, psychology, math, and biology. Students become qualified for additional roles such as medical billing specialists, hospital admissions assistants, and insurance coders. Graduates also qualify to sit for the CCMA exam.
This degree suits students seeking a broader educational background, more career flexibility, and potential advancement opportunities within healthcare.
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Class Structure and Locations
Southern Technical College provides two Tampa-area locations:
- Tampa Campus: 3910 Riga Blvd., Tampa, FL 33619
- Brandon Campus: 608 E. Bloomingdale Ave., Brandon, FL 33511
Classes are conveniently offered during both daytime and evening hours. Students can select schedules that best accommodate their personal or professional commitments.
What You’ll Learn: Diploma Program Highlights
The curriculum emphasizes real-world skills with courses including:
- Medical Terminology
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Clinical Skills for Medical Assistants
- Pharmacology Fundamentals
- Allied Health Laboratory Skills
- Electronic Health Records
- Medical Assisting Externship (real-world practical experience)
Upon graduation, you’ll have the capability to handle everyday tasks in healthcare facilities, like managing patient records, performing basic medical procedures, and assisting doctors during examinations.
What You’ll Learn: Associate Degree Program Highlights
The associate program adds valuable general education classes to the medical assisting foundation, with subjects like:
- English Composition
- College Mathematics
- Psychology
- Communications
This additional coursework enhances your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, making you more adaptable in various healthcare settings.
Admissions Requirements
Before starting your externship (clinical practice), you’ll need to meet several requirements. Here’s a clear list of prerequisites you must complete:
- Proof of current immunizations
- Current physical examination by a licensed healthcare provider (MD, DO, or ARNP)
- Proof of personal health insurance coverage
- Clear criminal background check
- Negative drug test (10-panel urine screening)
- Documentation proving immunity (vaccinations or titers) for Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella
- Negative PPD (TB test) within six months or a negative chest x-ray
- Tetanus booster within the last decade
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
Meeting these requirements is essential for placement at clinical externship sites.
Financial Considerations
Southern Technical College’s medical assisting diploma costs approximately $18,250, while the associate degree costs around $26,250. Both programs include all textbooks and essential materials at no extra charge. Financial aid options are available for eligible students, providing various ways to help manage the program cost.
Certification Opportunities
Graduates of either program are eligible to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification exam. Passing this nationally recognized exam can significantly enhance your employment prospects, though it is not mandatory for graduation.
Career Opportunities
Graduates can pursue job roles in a variety of healthcare environments, including:
- Physician offices
- Hospitals and urgent care clinics
- Outpatient facilities
- Diagnostic laboratories
- Nursing care and rehabilitation centers
- Walk-in medical clinics
Roles may include clinical medical assistant, administrative assistant, phlebotomist, or medical billing specialist.
Why Consider Southern Technical College?
Southern Technical College is a practical option for those looking to quickly enter the medical assisting field with real-world skills. The program’s flexibility, convenient locations, hands-on training, and strong focus on clinical experience set it apart. The small class sizes allow for personalized attention, while the industry-experienced faculty bring valuable insights directly into the classroom.
This college suits students who value a direct, structured pathway into healthcare. It is particularly beneficial for learners needing flexible scheduling and wanting intensive support with career preparation, including resume development and interview coaching.
Overall, Southern Technical College provides a focused, structured education that clearly targets employability in medical assisting. Those who are serious about a fast start in healthcare will find these programs worthwhile.
| Category | Details |
| Cost: | Diploma: $18,250; Associate Degree: $26,250 |
| Duration: | Diploma: 40 weeks; Associate Degree: 72 weeks |
| Class Schedules: | Day and evening classes available |
| Online Classes?: | No (program is delivered in-person with hands-on clinical and lab training) |
| Requirements: | Proof of immunizations, physical exam, health insurance, background check, drug screen, BLS cert |
| Locations: | Tampa: 3910 Riga Blvd., Tampa, FL 33619 Brandon: 608 E. Bloomingdale Ave., Brandon, FL 33511 |
| Phone: | (813) 630-4401 |
| Website: | https://www.southerntech.edu/programs/school-of-allied-health/diploma/medical-assistant/ |
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