Southern Adventist University
The Medical Assisting program at Southern Adventist University is designed to provide students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in the medical field. The program offers a one-year certificate, preparing students for various roles in healthcare settings.
Program Content and Duration
The Medical Assisting course is a comprehensive program that spans less than two years, typically completed within one academic year. The course covers a range of topics essential for a medical assistant, such as:
- Medical Terminology and Anatomy: Understanding the language of medicine and the structure of the human body.
- Clinical Procedures: Training in basic clinical tasks, such as taking patient histories, measuring vital signs, and assisting with examinations.
- Administrative Procedures: Skills in managing patient records, billing, coding, and scheduling.
- Laboratory Techniques: Learning to handle specimens, conduct basic laboratory tests, and maintain laboratory equipment.
- Medical Law and Ethics: Understanding the legal and ethical considerations in a healthcare environment.
Admission Requirements
To enroll in the Medical Assisting program, prospective students must meet the following requirements:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants should have completed secondary education or possess an equivalent qualification.
- GPA and Test Scores: While specific GPA requirements are not stated, a strong academic record is advantageous.
- English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers may need to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests.
Tuition and Costs
The estimated expenses for the 2023-2024 academic year at Southern Adventist University are as follows:
| Expense Type | On Campus | Off Campus | Off Campus with Family |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $25,590 | $25,590 | $25,590 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,100 | $1,100 | $1,100 |
| Food and Housing | $8,460 | $9,250 | $0 |
| Other Expenses | $4,350 | $4,350 | $4,350 |
| Total Expenses | $39,500 | $40,290 | $31,040 |
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available to eligible students through various grants, scholarships, and loans:
- Grants and Scholarships: All full-time beginning undergraduate students receive some form of grant or scholarship aid, with the average amount being $12,495.
- Federal Grants: 31% of students receive federal grants, such as Pell Grants, averaging $5,325.
- Student Loans: 45% of students take advantage of student loans, with an average loan amount of $7,788.
To explore financial aid options, students can visit the Financial Aid page.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Medical Assisting program can pursue various career paths in healthcare settings, including:
- Medical Assistant: Work in clinics, hospitals, or private practices assisting healthcare providers.
- Administrative Assistant: Manage medical offices, including patient records, billing, and appointment scheduling.
- Phlebotomist: Draw blood and handle specimens for laboratory testing.
- Lab Technician: Assist in clinical laboratories with specimen preparation and basic lab tests.
How to Enroll
To enroll in the Medical Assisting program at Southern Adventist University:
- Visit the Admissions Page for detailed information on requirements and deadlines.
- Apply Online by filling out the application form on the Southern Adventist University website.
- Submit Required Documents: High school transcripts, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), and any other necessary documentation.
- Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $25 is required to process your application.
Additional Information
Southern Adventist University, located at 4881 Taylor Cir, Collegedale, Tennessee, is a private not-for-profit institution affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The university offers a supportive environment, a student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to 1, and access to campus housing. Students may benefit from academic and career counseling, employment services, and placement services to enhance their educational experience.
For more details, you can contact the university at (423) 236-2000.