South Piedmont Community College’s Medical Assisting Diploma program prepares students to become certified medical assistants in less than a year. This two-semester program combines classroom, lab, clinical, and online instruction to provide a well-rounded educational experience. Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), the program is designed for students who want to enter the workforce quickly while also having the option to pursue an associate degree for career advancement.
- Affordable tuition and hybrid learning format with day and weekend class options
- Two-semester, CAAHEP-accredited diploma with option to continue to AAS degree
- Combines administrative, clinical, and laboratory instruction with real-world externship
Comprehensive Training for In-Demand Skills
The Medical Assisting Diploma program at South Piedmont Community College offers a fast-track into healthcare careers with hands-on training in both front- and back-office medical procedures. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for real-world clinical and administrative responsibilities that are common in outpatient care centers, physicians’ offices, and specialty clinics. Students learn to take vital signs, prepare patients for exams, draw blood, perform EKGs, and assist with minor office surgeries. On the administrative side, the program covers billing, insurance processing, appointment scheduling, and Electronic Health Record (EHR) management.
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Flexible and Hybrid Learning Format
SPCC offers its Medical Assisting Diploma program in both day and weekend formats, giving students flexibility in how they complete their studies. Day classes are offered at the Polkton campus, while weekend classes are held at the Monroe campus. A portion of the coursework is available through virtual and online formats, especially for the general education and lecture-based content, making it easier for working adults or parents to participate.
Externship Experience
In the final eight weeks of the program, students complete a clinical practicum (MED 260) at a local physician’s office, gaining full-time, supervised experience in a real healthcare setting. This practicum is non-paid and occurs Monday through Thursday. The placement is determined by the Practicum Coordinator and is essential for ensuring students are workplace-ready.
Admission Requirements and Selective Enrollment
Admission into the Medical Assisting Diploma program is competitive and requires completion of both general SPCC admission (Phase I) and program-specific application requirements (Phase II). Applicants must attend a mandatory information session, submit transcripts, meet placement standards for English and communications, and hold a minimum 2.0 GPA in any completed coursework. A criminal background check, drug screening, medical exam, and proof of immunizations are required upon program acceptance.
Accreditation and Certification Eligibility
The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). This ensures graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)—a certification increasingly preferred by employers.
Pathway to an Associate Degree
Students who complete the diploma and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher are eligible to apply to the Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program. This 1+1 program structure allows students to begin working after completing the diploma while continuing their education online for further advancement. The associate degree includes additional coursework in psychology, English, anatomy, humanities, and patient education.
Cost and Financial Details
The estimated total cost for in-state students is approximately $5,559.10, including tuition, fees, textbooks, uniforms, liability insurance, certification exam fees, and supplies such as a stethoscope and watch. While this program is more affordable than many private institutions, SPCC students are encouraged to explore federal financial aid and scholarship opportunities through the college’s financial aid office.
Support and Career Outlook
Medical assistants are in high demand, and SPCC’s program is designed to help graduates transition smoothly into the workforce. SPCC offers resources for career development, resume building, and job search support, although direct job placement services are not specified. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is expected to grow significantly over the next decade, and medical assistants are needed in a variety of specialties such as pediatrics, OB/GYN, radiology, neurology, and urgent care.
This program is a good fit for
This program is ideal for students who are eager to begin a career in healthcare in under a year, particularly those who appreciate hands-on learning and are comfortable with both clinical and administrative duties. It suits recent high school graduates, career changers, or adult learners who need flexible class schedules and want a clear pathway to certification and career advancement.
| Program Information | Details |
| Cost | $5,559.10 (in-state) |
| Program Duration | 2 semesters |
| Class Schedules | Day classes (Polkton campus), Weekend classes (Monroe campus); some virtual/online coursework |
| Prerequisites | Completion of SPCC admission requirements, attendance at info session, GPA 2.0+ in prior coursework, placement test or waiver |
| Address | 4209 Old Charlotte Hwy, Monroe, NC 28110 |
| Phone | (704) 290-5100 |
| No | |
| Website | https://spcc.edu/areas-of-study/health-sciences-and-nursing/medical-assisting-options/medical-assisting-medical-laboratory-assistant/ |
| Job Placement | No |
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