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Southeastern College

At A Glance:

  • Offers multiple pathways including Certificate, Diploma, and Associate Degree in Medical Assisting, available in on-campus and hybrid formats
  • Externship included for all formats, providing real-world clinical experience before graduation
  • Programmatic accreditation from ABHES and institutional accreditation from ACCSC, ensuring high educational standards

Flexible Program Formats Tailored to Career Goals

Southeastern College in Charlotte offers one of the most comprehensive and flexible medical assisting training options in the region. Students can choose from a Certificate, Diploma, or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Medical Assisting. Each program is designed to accommodate different educational backgrounds, career goals, and schedules, with full-time, part-time, and evening classes available. Coursework is delivered through a combination of on-campus instruction and distance learning, with some online components offered through the college’s learning platform. This hybrid flexibility supports students who may be balancing education with family or employment obligations.

The Certificate program provides foundational medical assisting skills in about 8 months for full-time students or 14 months part-time, totaling 31 credit hours. The Diploma program, also completed in 8 to 14 months, is available in a bilingual English/Spanish format at select campuses, ideal for multilingual students pursuing healthcare careers. The Associate of Applied Science degree is the most comprehensive, requiring 60 total credit hours and typically completed in 16 to 22 months. This AAS track includes both clinical and general education courses, enhancing long-term career opportunities and transferability of credits.


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Extensive Curriculum and Practical Learning

Regardless of the track selected, students receive robust training in both clinical and administrative competencies. Key courses include Clinical Procedures, Medical Office Management with Billing and Coding, Medical Terminology, Lab Procedures I & II, and Electronic Health Records. Students develop hands-on skills in taking vital signs, drawing blood, performing EKGs, assisting with minor surgical procedures, maintaining medical records, and processing insurance claims.

All students complete an externship—typically totaling 160 hours—at a physician’s office or medical facility. This real-world training offers critical exposure to daily clinical operations and patient interactions, increasing students’ confidence and employability. Externships must be completed during daytime hours, even for students enrolled in evening classes.


Admissions Requirements and Process

Prospective students must provide proof of high school graduation or GED completion. International transcripts must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency. Applicants also take an entrance exam unless they submit sufficient SAT or ACT scores. Students may be admitted through appeal under special conditions, including an interview and written statement. Background checks and drug screenings may be required depending on externship placements.


Accreditation and Institutional Recognition

Southeastern College’s Certificate in Medical Assisting program is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), a respected accrediting agency for allied health education. The institution itself is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). This dual accreditation ensures the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards, which is important for both employer recognition and certification eligibility.

The school is also licensed by the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges and authorized by the UNC System Board of Governors, reinforcing its credibility and commitment to compliance with state education standards.


Affordability and Financial Aid Options

Southeastern College offers competitive pricing, with the Charlotte-based Certificate program listed at only $1,275. Students pursuing diploma or associate degrees may incur additional tuition costs based on credit hour totals and program duration. Federal financial aid is available for eligible students across most programs. Admissions staff assist with FAFSA submissions and financial planning to ensure students understand their tuition obligations and funding options.


Online Course Components and Technology Expectations

Students enrolled in the hybrid or online versions of the program must have access to a computer with internet connectivity and Microsoft Office. Online coursework is delivered through a user-friendly platform that supports discussion forums, assignment submission, and multimedia lectures. Students are expected to be self-disciplined, computer literate, and engaged in virtual class discussions. While the flexibility is a key advantage, the academic rigor is equivalent to in-person courses, and attendance is closely monitored.


Faculty Experience and Student Support

Southeastern College faculty members bring clinical expertise from a range of healthcare backgrounds, including medical assisting, nursing, lab technology, and administration. Instructors not only teach from real-world experience but are also involved in mentoring and guiding students through academic challenges. The small class sizes ensure individualized attention, and students have access to the college’s Learning Resource System, technical support, and academic advising.


Career Readiness and Job Prospects

Graduates of Southeastern College’s medical assisting programs are well-positioned for entry-level roles in primary care practices, outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, and specialty offices. While the school does not formally guarantee job placement, it provides job search assistance including resume workshops, interview coaching, and employer partnerships. The required externship also frequently serves as a stepping stone into full-time employment.


What Students Can Expect

Southeastern College students can expect a structured, immersive, and hands-on learning experience that balances flexibility with high standards. Whether pursuing a quick certificate or a two-year degree, students receive comprehensive training that prepares them to meet the demands of modern healthcare environments. Graduates often go on to earn certifications such as Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), though the cost of certification exams is separate from tuition.


This program is a good fit for

Program InformationDetails
Cost$1,275
Program Duration8 to 22 months, depending on program format
Class SchedulesDay, evening, hybrid, and on-campus options available
PrerequisitesHigh school diploma or GED, entrance exam or acceptable SAT/ACT scores
Address207 Regency Executive Park Dr, Charlotte, NC 28217
Phone(704) 527-4979
EmailNo
Websitehttps://www.sec.edu/academic-program/medical-assisting/
Job PlacementNo

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