Medical Assistant Training Program

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The University of Iowa Medical Assistant Hospital-Based Training Program is designed to prepare you for a career as a medical assistant (MA) through interactive laboratory time, observational experiences, and clinical hours at UI Health Care locations.  

Upon completion, you will be eligible to take the National Health Career Association’s certificate exam to become a certified clinical medical assistant (CCMA) and start an exciting new career as a medical assistant with University of Iowa Health Care.  

A Medical Assistant (MA) is a flexible healthcare professional who manages both administrative and clinical tasks in medical facilities. On the administrative side, they handle patient check-ins, appointment scheduling, and keep medical records in order. They also deal with billing, insurance forms, and medical coding. In the clinical aspect, MAs help with patient exams, record vital signs, and prepare patients for procedures. They give medications, perform basic tests, and assist with minor surgeries. MAs educate patients about treatments and medications. They also contribute to infection control, maintain medical equipment, and keep the environment clean. Their supportive role is crucial for smooth operations in medical offices and clinics, with specific duties varying based on state regulations and facility policies.

At UI Health Care, Medical Assistants typically operate within the ambulatory setting, spanning from primary care to specialty clinics. Their roles extend throughout the UI Community Clinics, University Campus, Iowa River Landing, and various clinical outreach locations.

  • Take the National Health Career Association’s Certificate Exam to become a certified clinical medical assistant (CCMA)
  • Apply as a Medical Assistant with the University of Iowa Health Care
  • Demonstrate foundational clinical practice skills 
  • Communicate effectively—verbally, nonverbally, and in writing 
  • Perform medical business practices 
  • Provide patient care in accordance with regulations, policies, laws, and patient rights 
  • Demonstrate safe, effective, team-based care adhering to quality and safety measures
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For more information on the Medical Assistant Training Program, please contact:

Instructional Service Specialist

Program Overview

The program includes four 8-week sessions and a 160-hour practicum, where you'll apply cognitive, psychomotor, and affective skills from your coursework. Classes are conducted in person. Many of the assignments are available online. These face-to-face sessions are conducted in the evening from 5:30pm-8pm, Monday through Thursday. The academic year runs from September to May, followed by a clinical externship from May to late June. Graduation happens in July, with specific dates changing each year. Students are enrolled as non-degree seeking through the University of Iowa Health Care.

Our specialized team-based care and documentation instruction will provide you with insight and skills to help create a more patient-centered environment, allowing patients to have access to all members of the care team, not just the primary care providers. The team-based care model increases operational efficiencies, reduces costs, and can improve patient and health care worker satisfaction.

Course Outline

Session 1 

  • Fundamentals of Medical Assisting & Medical Law and Ethics 
  • Medical Terminology I 
  • Anatomy & Physiology & Human Diseases I 

Session 2 

  • Medical Terminology II 
  • Pharmacology w/lab 
  • Anatomy & Physiology & Human Diseases II 

Session 3

  • Clinical Procedure I
  • Medical Office Management
  • Medical Billing and Coding 
  • Keyboarding 

Session 4

  • Clinical Procedures II 
  • Professional Development 
  • Team-Based Care 

Externship 

  • Complete 160 clinical hours at a UI Health Care clinic

Tentative Program Costs

Program fee: $7500 (including non-refundable seat fee)

  • Non-refundable Seat Fee - $300 Due in July
  • Program Tuition - $7,200 Due Quarterly
    • $1,800 due on the first day of October, January, March, and May.
    • Tuition assistance is not available at this time. Program fees must be paid as scheduled and are subject to change.

Admission Requirements

  1. Possess a high school diploma or the equivalent
  2. Pass a criminal background check
  3. Comply with UI Health Care Employee Health Screening Requirements
  4. Be available on-site for courses and experiential hours in the Iowa City Area
  5. Legally authorized to work in the United States
    1. Visa Sponsorship is unavailable for this program

How to Submit Your Letter of Interest

The 2025-2026 submission period is now open.

Key Dates:

  • March 3, 2025: Submissions accepted.
  • June 2, 2025: Submission deadline.
  • July 2025: Non-refundable seat fee of $300 due (date subject to change)
  • September 2025: Classes begin.

Submission Materials:

Open until June 2025

  1. Résumé
  2. Statement of interest (250 – 350 words) that addresses the following:
    1. How did you come to the decision to become a medical assistant?
    2. What are your short- and long-term professional goals as a medical assistant?
    3. How will your prior education and experience assist you in achieving your academic and professional goals as a medical assistant?
  3. Copy of high school diploma or equivalent
  4. References to include name, phone number and a valid email address.
  5. Apply Today