Cabarrus College of Health Sciences

Students have two routes to becoming a medical assistant at Cabarrus College: a one-year diploma or a more in-depth, two-year Associate of Science degree. Both tracks are delivered in a hybrid format, offering online didactic coursework combined with weekly in-person lab sessions and clinical practicums. This flexible structure allows students to complete a large portion of their studies online while still gaining hands-on experience every week—an ideal setup for those balancing work or family commitments. The program also accommodates part-time students, though this will extend the time required for completion.

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The curriculum at Cabarrus is modern, comprehensive, and fully aligned with the standards of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). All students, regardless of track, participate in clinical lab practice throughout the program. Diploma students complete a 192-hour practicum in a family medicine setting. Associate degree students go a step further with an additional internship in a specialty practice of their choice, enhancing their exposure and employability.

Courses include everything from patient care techniques and medical terminology to radiology, pharmacology, and practice management software. Students will also train in high-tech simulation labs and real-world clinical sites, including Atrium Health facilities—giving them a clear edge in practical readiness.

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Admission to either track requires a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must also submit a valid government-issued photo ID and, for hybrid participation, meet technical requirements for accessing online course platforms. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until seats are filled, though priority is given to those submitted by January 1 for fall enrollment.

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The diploma program costs approximately $16,111 including tuition, fees, and books. Students pursuing the associate degree should expect a higher total cost based on the extended program length. While room and board are not offered, Cabarrus provides numerous financial aid options, including federal grants, institutional scholarships, and payment plans.

One major financial benefit for eligible students is the Atrium Health Forgivable Loan, offering up to $5,000 for diploma students and up to $10,000 for associate degree students. This loan can be fully forgiven through one to two years of employment at an Atrium Health facility, essentially allowing students to complete the program at little to no out-of-pocket cost.

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The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) on the recommendation of MAERB, as well as by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Upon graduation, students are eligible to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), a nationally recognized credential that significantly enhances job prospects.

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Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized instruction, and weekly access to professional mentors working within Atrium Health. Instructors are seasoned medical assistants and healthcare professionals who bring real-world experience and clinical insight into the classroom. Beyond academics, Cabarrus offers career counseling, resume-building workshops, and job interview preparation to help graduates land a position promptly after graduation.

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The job outlook for medical assistants is excellent, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 18% job growth through 2030. Students at Cabarrus frequently secure employment before graduation, thanks to weekly clinical rotations and strong ties with Atrium Health. Although job placement is not guaranteed, the college’s affiliation with Atrium, plus its reputation in the region, significantly improves employment outcomes for graduates.

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