Overview

See Department website and program contacts here

The Medical Office Administrative Secretary (AAS) degree is designed for students seeking careers in healthcare administrative and office support settings. The curriculum combines medical office knowledge with administrative and technology skills to prepare students for employment in a variety of healthcare environments.

Coursework includes topics such as medical records, reception procedures, healthcare scheduling, coding and billing, office communication, and computer applications. Students develop practical administrative and organizational skills used in physicians’ offices, hospitals, nursing facilities, insurance companies, and other healthcare settings.

The Medical Office Administrative Secretary program is workforce-focused and prepares students for careers supporting healthcare providers, office operations, and patient services in medical environments.

Students without prior computer experience, or those wishing to strengthen computer skills before beginning the program, are encouraged to enroll in BCS090 Computer Basics for College Success, a free course offered through the Learning Success Center.

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:

• Discuss the roles of the health care team members, elements of successful leadership and problem-solving strategies
• Describe medical terminology, including disease processes and pharmacology
• Differentiate verbal and nonverbal communication, including gender differences, cultural awareness and sensitivity, and the elements of speaking and listening
• Describe the knowledge and skills required of an administrative secretary
• Compare and contrast the billing and coding elements
• Complete a professional résumé
• Describe job searches and correct interview techniques

Education Plan

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

Medical Office students are required to complete a criminal background check and possibly provide documentation of immunizations prior to beginning an internship.  However many Medical Office sites do not require immunizations, since students normally do not have direct patient contact. If  your chosen site DOES require immunizations, consult with your advisor for a comprehensive list of those required. Do not complete a background check without first consulting with your program adviser.

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

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

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.