Prospective students looking to jump start a career in medicine are encouraged to apply for College of the Mainland's (COM) one-year Medical Assistant Program. 

"We are currently accepting applications for the 2014 Fall semester," said Public Service Careers Professor Cheryl Bordwine. "Admission into the program is a three-part process consisting of an application, entrance exam and interview, so now is definitely the time to start."

Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERBB), the three-semester program provides an entry-level education for individuals seeking a quick transition in to the medical profession.

"Medical assistants are allied health professionals who assist physicians and perform the routine administrative and clinical tasks that keep the physician's office running smoothly and efficiently," explained Bordwine. 

Designed for full-time enrollment, and offered both in the daytime and in the evenings, the three-semester program includes an array of courses ranging from anatomy and physiology, to pharmacology and medical law. 
Rotations through the University of Texas Medical Branch's (UTMB) clinics, completed in the last semester, provide students with real-world field experience that translates to employment in area hospitals and clinics. 

"Most of our students get hired right after their externship, or within six months of graduation," Bordwine added. 

Additionally, upon completing their coursework, students may sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) examination offered through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) examination offered through American Medical Technologies (AMT).

Combined, the training and certifications prepare students to enter a field that is projected to grow 29 percent in the next ten years. 

"This is a great career field and a great opportunity that should not be missed," Bordwine added. "Students should sign up now." 

Applications for the Fall 2014 semester are currently being accepted. 

Financial aid is available to those who qualify, and program scholarships are available through the College of the Mainland Foundation.

For additional information regarding the program, contact Darlene Alexander at 409-933-8231 or at dalexander@com.edu.

For scholarship information, contact the College of the Mainland Foundation at 409-933-8674.