The Medical Assisting program at St. Paul’s School of Nursing prepares students for entry-level roles in healthcare by combining clinical, administrative, and hands-on training. The program includes 1,564 clock hours of training spread over 72 weeks, culminating in an Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) degree. Students gain skills in medical office procedures, phlebotomy, EKGs, and patient care, ensuring they are well-rounded and job-ready.
With campuses in Queens and Staten Island, the program offers flexible schedules, including morning and evening classes, making it suitable for students balancing other responsibilities. Additionally, students complete an externship, providing real-world experience in healthcare settings. Tuition for the program is $31,434, with a total cost of $35,872, which includes books, fees, and additional costs.
Curriculum and Training
The curriculum includes courses in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, clinical procedures, and regulatory compliance. Students learn both administrative tasks, such as medical billing and insurance handling, and clinical skills like injections, lab screenings, and patient education. Training also emphasizes compliance with HIPAA, OSHA regulations, and Universal Precautions to ensure safety and professionalism in healthcare environments.
Externship Experience
A required 160-hour externship offers students the chance to apply classroom knowledge in a practical healthcare setting. This experience builds confidence and strengthens resumes, allowing graduates to transition smoothly into professional roles. While the externship is unpaid, it provides invaluable exposure to the realities of healthcare work.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared to seek entry-level roles in various healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and private practices. Typical duties include greeting patients, scheduling appointments, performing phlebotomy and EKGs, and maintaining patient records. Career services at St. Paul’s assist students with job placement, resume development, and interview preparation.
Schedule and Flexibility
Classes are offered Monday through Thursday, with morning sessions running from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and evening sessions from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Externship hours may vary depending on the clinical site’s schedule, ensuring students gain exposure to real-world healthcare settings.
Prerequisites
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Completion of required immunizations, including COVID-19 vaccination
- Submission of physical examination and health records before the externship
Accreditation
St. Paul’s School of Nursing is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), ensuring a high-quality education that meets industry standards. The program is designed to prepare students for certification exams, enhancing their credentials and employability.
Why Apply?
This program is ideal for students seeking a thorough introduction to medical assisting with the flexibility to balance other commitments. The combination of classroom learning, hands-on training, and an externship provides a well-rounded education. With career support services and accreditation, St. Paul’s School of Nursing helps students confidently pursue a rewarding career in healthcare.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Type | Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) |
| Cost | $31,434 (Tuition); $35,872 (Total Cost) |
| Duration | 72 weeks (6 terms, 12 weeks each) |
| Class Schedules | Morning: 9:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Evening: 6:00–11:00 p.m. |
| Requirements | High school diploma or GED, immunizations, physical exam |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Address | Queens: 97-77 Queens Blvd., Queens, NY 11374 Staten Island: Corporate Commons Two, 2 Teleport Drive, Suite 203, Staten Island, NY 10311 |
| Phone | Queens: (718) 357-0500 Staten Island: (718) 818-6470 |
| Website | https://www.stpaulsschoolofnursing.edu/programs/healthcare—medical/medical-assisting.html |