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Southern Technical College Medical Assisting Programs

At A Glance:

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?

CategoryDetails
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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