Frequently asked questions
How many students do you admit to your program each year?
We generally admit 24 students to the program each term to different campus locations.
How competitive is admission?
Our primary form of admission is guaranteed admission. If you meet the requirements and have a plan in place, you are guaranteed admission to the next open starting term you have identified with the admissions advisor. Contact healthca@pcc.edu for more information.
What is the cost of your program?
See the program costs page for details.
Can any of your prerequisites or program classes be substituted with other classes or work experience?
No, Medical Assisting classes taken at other colleges can be transferred. Most writing, math, and other general education classes can be transferred from any accredited college.
How long is the program and what are the hours?
The program is three terms (9 months).
You will work with your practicum instructor to find a practicum site during your final term unless you have a positive background check (potential background issues) – then you are responsible for finding your own site to complete the required clinical hours.
What is the completion rate for your program?
For the past 3 years, our completion rate has averaged about 95%.
What kind of certification am I eligible for with your program?
You will be eligible to take the national exam to become a CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). This is the gold standard of certifications. In the State of Oregon, it will be required that you are certified or registered to obtain a job. Our students have a 95% pass rate.
What is the employment rate for graduates from your program?
Approximately 90% of our graduates are working in their field within a few months of graduation.
Am I able to transfer courses that I have taken in the Medical Assisting program to another program or degree?
No. While a number of our prerequisites and support classes are transferable the program does not have any articulation agreements with other colleges. Transfer credits for our program specific courses to another college or university are at the discretion of that institution.