UCLA Health

Medical Assistant Program

Program Format and Curriculum

The UCLA Health Medical Assistant Program (MAP) is a comprehensive, year-long program that prepares students to become certified medical assistants. Developed in partnership with UCLA Health and UCLA Extension, the program combines theoretical coursework with practical clinical experience. Students gain hands-on training in clinical tasks such as taking vital signs, performing EKGs, administering medications, and more, while also mastering administrative functions including medical records management and patient scheduling. With 68 units of coursework and 200 hours of clinical internship, this program ensures that students are well-prepared for the National Certified Medical Assistants (NCMA) exam by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).

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Class Schedule and Learning Format

The program is structured over four academic quarters, accommodating both full-time and part-time students. While the program does not offer online classes, it emphasizes in-person learning for hands-on practice, enabling students to benefit from UCLA’s state-of-the-art facilities. Courses are taught by experienced professionals from UCLA Health, including physicians, nurses, and healthcare administrators, providing students with insight into real-world medical practices.

Admissions Requirements

Admission to the UCLA Health Medical Assistant Program is selective, with a multi-step process to ensure that each applicant is committed to a healthcare career. Applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED and demonstrate competence in math, reading, and writing through the HESI entrance exam. The application process also includes a personal statement, references, and an interview with the admissions committee, allowing students to showcase their dedication to the medical field.

Program Cost and Financial Aid

The program costs $23,000, though significant scholarships are available. UCLA Health employees may qualify for up to $21,000 in tuition reduction, making their final cost as low as $2,000. For non-UCLA Health employees, tuition assistance of up to $18,000 is available, potentially reducing the final cost to $5,000. This commitment to affordability demonstrates UCLA Health’s mission to provide accessible education to all eligible applicants.

Career Support and Job Placement

The program boasts a high job placement rate, with 92.55% of graduates securing employment within the field. Through UCLA’s Career Services, students receive dedicated support in job searches, resume building, and interview preparation, with a focus on helping graduates find positions within UCLA Health. This strong job placement record is a testament to UCLA’s robust healthcare network and the high-quality training provided by the program.

Instructor Expertise and Student Support

The instructors in this program are healthcare professionals with extensive experience in their respective fields. UCLA Health’s faculty includes practicing nurses, physicians, and healthcare administrators, all of whom bring a wealth of knowledge and practical expertise to the classroom. This direct connection with industry leaders allows students to receive current, relevant training, and mentorship from experts who are actively involved in healthcare innovation and reform.

Accreditation and Certification Preparation

The UCLA Health Medical Assistant Program is fully accredited and meets the standards set by the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). Students who complete the program are well-prepared to sit for the NCMA exam, a widely recognized certification that enhances employability and demonstrates proficiency in medical assisting skills.

What to Expect After Graduation

Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills and confidence needed to enter a dynamic healthcare environment. They join the UCLA Alumni Association, gaining access to an extensive network of professionals and career resources. Additionally, UCLA Health’s high demand for skilled medical assistants offers graduates a pathway to potential employment within the institution, with salaries approximately 13% above the national median.

Program Information	Details
Cost	$23,000 (Scholarships available)
Program Duration	4 quarters (approximately 12 months)
Class Schedules	In-person only, structured over four quarters
Prerequisites	High school diploma or GED, HESI entrance exam
Address	10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, California, 90095
Phone	310-825-7093
Email	[email protected]
Website	UCLA Health Medical Assistant Program
Job Placement	Yes, with support for UCLA Health positions
Social Media	Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube