We are currently accepting applications for fall 2026!
The Medical Assistant Program prepares students for employment as a medical assistant under the direction of a physician or registered nurse in a clinical or office setting. The curriculum is designed to provide training in administrative (front office) and clinical (back office medical assisting skills). Instruction is given in basic medical office procedures, assisting with examinations, laboratory procedures, electrocardiography, and patient advocacy. The program is a full-time, one-year program which may include summer. A new cohort starts every August. Please see the current class schedule for date and times.
This program will include online, in class, and clinical hours.
MiraCosta College meets the state requirements by providing a minimum of 160 hours of training prior to qualifying for MA certification.
The following prerequisites must be completed before applying:
- Nursing 151 - Body Systems Survey for Health Professionals or BIO210 or BIO220
- Nursing 155 - Basic Medical Terminology
Equivalent courses from other schools will be accepted with prior approval from Program Director. Students must contact Program Director for course substitution prior to applying. These prerequisites must be completed with a grade “C” or better.
Additional Requirements
- Students must be fully vaccinated with the influenza vaccine prior to clinical rotation. COVID-19 vaccination may be required by some or all clinical facilities.
- ALL students are required to complete the background check and urine drug screen before beginning a program in San Diego County. This is a Hospital/Health Care Agency requirement. If you have any convictions on your background check in the last 7 years, you will not be eligible to start the program. Students will be given the information to obtain these requirements at the orientation and advisement.
- A valid SSN or TIN is required
Complete applications are accepted on an on-going basis and students will be added to the established list. Application must be submitted with the following online Google document:
Health Requirements: Applicants selected for enrollment into the program must complete the following before starting a clinical rotation in San Diego County:
- A Physical Examination
- Influenza Vaccination
- Other Required Immunizations
- Background Check
- Urine Drug Screen
The student must be free from communicable diseases, infections, and must be able to perform the essential requirements of the program with or without reasonable accommodations for disability. COVID-19 vaccination may be required by some or all clinical facilities.
If you have any convictions on your background check in the last 7 years, you will not be eligible to start the program.
Students will be given the information to obtain these requirements at the orientation and advisement.
Students should plan on spending approximately $2000 during the MA Program for tuition, uniforms, books, and the required physical examination and immunizations. Since the clinical portion of the program is taught at local hospitals and clinics, students must have reliable transportation to these sites and should budget for these expenses.
Scholarships and loans are available for qualified students. Contact the Financial Aid Office for further details.
The annual salary for Medical Office Clinical and Administrative professionals is approximately $42,000. They may seek employment in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, physicians’ offices, industry, public health agencies or various governmental agencies.
You may receive a Certificate of Achievement upon completion of additional course requirements as listed in the college catalog.
For other Medical Administrative Professional Certificate and Degree options please visit this website: MiraCosta College | Medical Administrative Professional
