Overview of the Medical Assistant Program in Riverside
The Medical Assistant program in Riverside offered by American College of Healthcare & Technology provides a full‑scope education combining clinical and administrative skills needed for entry‑level positions in healthcare settings. The Riverside campus curriculum includes both classroom instruction and practical externship experience, preparing students for real‑world medical assisting roles.
- Program Type: Diploma
- Duration: 36 weeks / ~9 months
- Externship: 240 hours clinical externship required
- Accreditation: ABHES Accredited & BPPE Approved (CA)
- Eligibility: High school diploma or GED required
- Aid Options: Federal Aid, GI Bill®, payment plans available
Program Objectives
The Riverside Medical Assistant training prepares students with skills in both patient care and office operations, ensuring graduates are competent and confident entering the healthcare workforce.
Key objectives include:
- Develop clinical skills such as phlebotomy, EKG, and diagnostic procedures
- Learn medical office procedures including billing and electronic health records
- Build strong communication and patient interaction skills
- Prepare students for eligibility to pursue national certifications
Riverside Medical Assistant Classes
The MA curriculum at the Riverside campus integrates theory and practice through a structured program of classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical externship:
- Clinical Techniques: Phlebotomy, vital signs, basic lab procedures
- Medical Office Management: Scheduling, medical billing & coding
- Medical Terminology & Anatomy: Foundational coursework for clinical understanding
- Externship: Supervised hands‑on clinical experience in a real healthcare facility
Students train from day one in lab environments, combining lecture and practice to ensure readiness for professional roles.
Admission Requirements
H2: Admission Requirements for Riverside MA Program
To enroll in the Riverside Medical Assistant program, applicants must:
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Complete the online application
- Speak with an admissions representative
- Schedule a campus tour or advising session
Certification & Career Path
Graduates of the program are prepared to pursue national medical assistant certifications, which enhance employment prospects:
- CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) credential – through the American Association of Medical Assistants
- CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant) – through the National Healthcareer Association
- Students are prepared for eligibility, but must apply separately for certification exams
Medical assistants typically work in outpatient clinics, physician offices, and healthcare facilities where they perform both clinical and administrative tasks under supervision.
Riverside Medical Assistant Program Cost
Tuition and fees for the Riverside MA program vary. Financial assistance options include:
- Federal Aid & FAFSA assistance
- GI Bill® benefits for veterans
- Workforce Investment Board (WIB) support
- Flexible payment plans
Prospective students should contact admissions for up‑to‑date cost estimates and funding options.
Riverside Campus Location & Contact Info
Main Campus:
📍 11801 Pierce St., Suite 100, Riverside, CA 92505
📞 Toll‑free: (888) 430‑4224
📞 Local: (951) 729‑5320
Use the request info form or call admissions to learn more about upcoming cohort start dates and program details.
Riverside Medical Assistant School Reviews
Students of the Riverside Medical Assistant program highlight:
- Strong emphasis on hands‑on clinical skills in labs
- Externship experience helps prepare for real career settings
- Faculty support and guidance through certification preparation
Consistent with other ACH MA programs, Riverside graduates benefit from a mix of clinical and administrative training before job search.
Frequently Asked Questions – Riverside Medical Assistant Program
Q1: What is the duration of the Riverside MA program?
A1: The Medical Assistant program in Riverside is approximately 36 weeks (~9 months) and includes 240 hours of hands-on externship in clinical settings.
Q2: What certifications can I pursue after completing the Riverside MA program?
A2: Graduates can pursue CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) through AAMA or CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant) through NHA. ACH provides eligibility preparation, but exam registration is separate.
Q3: What are the admission requirements for the Riverside MA program?
A3: Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, complete the online application, consult with an admissions advisor, and attend a campus tour or interview.
Q4: How much does the Riverside MA program cost?
A4: Tuition varies by cohort. Financial aid options include federal aid, GI Bill®, WIB assistance, and flexible payment plans.
Q5: Are online classes available for the Riverside MA program?
A5: Some theoretical coursework may be online, but all hands-on labs and externship hours must be completed on campus.
Q6: Where is the Riverside MA program campus located?
A6: The ACH Riverside campus is at 11801 Pierce St., Suite 100, Riverside, CA 92505. Call admissions at (888) 430‑4224 for more information.
Q7: What career opportunities are available after completing the Riverside MA program?
A7: Graduates can work as medical assistants in physician offices, clinics, outpatient centers, and hospitals, performing clinical and administrative tasks under supervision.
Ready to Start Your Career in Healthcare?
Join the accredited Medical Assistant Program in Riverside and develop the clinical and administrative skills employers seek.