Overview

See Department website and program contacts here

The Medical Office Receptionist certificate is designed for students seeking careers in healthcare reception, front office operations, and patient services. The curriculum introduces foundational administrative and communication skills used in medical office and healthcare environments.

Coursework includes topics such as appointment scheduling, patient communication, healthcare office procedures, insurance forms, records management, message handling, and office organization. Students develop practical administrative and customer service skills used to support healthcare providers and patients in medical settings.

The Medical Office Receptionist program is workforce-focused and prepares students for entry-level employment in medical offices, hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and long-term care facilities.

Students completing the certificate may return later to continue into a related Medical Office (AAS) degree program.

Students are encouraged to work with an advisor to ensure appropriate course selection and program planning based on their educational background and career goals.

Refer to the tabs above for additional information about:

• Education Plan – provides a sample term-by-term sequence of courses
• Career Info – includes information on potential occupations, employment trends, and earnings

Program Learning Objectives

At the completion of this program, students should be able to:

• Differentiate the roles of the health care team, elements of successful leadership and problem-solving strategies
• Discuss and use medical terminology
• Discuss verbal and nonverbal communication, including gender differences, cultural awareness and sensitivity, and the elements of speaking and listening
• Discuss the knowledge and skills required of a medical receptionist and the basic elements of billing coding
• Complete a professional résumé
• Explain job searches and correct interview techniques
• Demonstrate good customer service techniques
• Use office equipment, electronic medical records and the Microsoft Office suite

Education Plan

This sample Education Plan illustrates one possible course sequence. Students should consult an advisor to create a personalized plan.

Note: A minimum grade of “C” is required in all courses.

General education courses (such as math, writing, health, etc.) can be taken during any term, or before starting the program. 

Career Information

Explore potential careers related to this program, including typical job roles, employment trends, and projected growth. This information can help you better understand how your education may align with future career opportunities.