Medical Office Assistant · Program Orientation, Professionalism, and Healthcare Roles

Certificate and Associate Degree Pathways

On this page 3 sections
  1. Quick check
  2. Study tools
  3. Sources & references

Quick check

5 questions here, of 75 in this lesson’s practice set. Answers stay hidden until you check.

Question 1 of 5foundational

A student is researching entry into medical assisting. A certificate or diploma program in medical assisting typically takes about how long to complete?

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Question 2 of 5foundational

An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in medical assisting typically takes about how long to complete?

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Question 3 of 5foundational

Which type of program typically includes general education courses (such as English and mathematics) in addition to medical assisting courses?

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Question 4 of 5intermediate

A student needs to enter the workforce as quickly as possible and does not need general education credits. Which pathway is the most efficient?

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Question 5 of 5intermediate

Compared with a certificate program, an associate degree program in medical assisting typically:

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You’ll learn to

  • Distinguish a certificate program from an Associate of Applied Science degree in medical office assisting.
  • Describe typical program components including coursework and externship.
  • Contrast program-specific requirements with general educational principles.

Sources & references

  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Medical Assistants - Occupational Outlook Handbook
  2. American Association of Medical Assistants — What is a Medical Assistant?
  3. National Healthcareer Association — Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)

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