Medical Assistant - How to Get Started
The medical assistant certificate program begins once a year during the summer term. Any student admitted to MHCC can sign up for classes in the program after reading, writing, and math placement requirements have been met. This is an open entry program - there is no application process. Registration for the summer term is open from April through June.
Complete the MHCC Application Process
It is easy to get started at MHCC. Simply follow the steps in our new student checklist. These include filling out the admission form, figuring out how to pay for college through programs like the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) or the Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA), connecting with our staff to choose classes, and more.
Applied to MHCC? Here's what to do next
After you have been admitted to MHCC, you will need to meet the course registration requirements in reading, writing, and math. You can take the courses below OR you can place into the courses by taking the college placement test.
Placement Requirements Needed to Get Started in This Program
Business: BA131: Introduction to Business Computing. You must earn a C or better.
- Before beginning the program, students who are not familiar with computer applications (such as MS Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc.) must complete BA131: Introduction to Business Computing and earn a grade of C or higher.
- Students who are already proficient in computer applications and online learning are not required to take BA131.
- During the first week of the program in the Summer term, students will be assessed on basic computer navigation skills. Those who are unable to demonstrate proficiency will be required to take BA131: Introduction to Business Computing
Reading: Completion of RD090 or placement into RD115
Writing: Completion of WR090 or placement into WR115
Math: Completion of MTH 058 or MTH 060 or placement into MTH065 or MTH098
Learn more about college placement testing
Sign up for classes
After completing the placement requirements, you can sign up for classes. First-term students should sign up for these classes:
- MA110 Fundamentals for the Medical Office (three credits)
- MA110L Fundamentals for the Medical Office Lab (one credit)
- MA140 Understanding Medical Insurance (three credits)
- MA213 Medical Terminology (two credits)
- BI100 Survey of Body Systems (four credits)
Have more questions? Connect with the student services hub
Additional Program Costs
In addition to Mt. Hood Community College tuition and fees, you can expect the following costs to complete this program. These costs are approximations and are listed only as a guide for your financial planning.- Immunizations (varies depending on what an applicant already has done) - $400.00
- Fees (Lab, Clinical, Standardized Test) - $1,250.00
- Uniforms, School Patch, Name Tag, Shoes - $200.00
- Clinical Tools (stethoscope, watch) - $75.00
- Travel to Clinical Sites - Variable
- Textbooks - $250.00
- National Certification Exam - $250.00
- Drug Screen and Criminal Background Check - $130.00
- CastleBranch Subscription - $100
Take the next step with Mt. Hood Community College
Have questions about the Medical Assistant Program?
Read Medical Assistant Frequently Asked Questions