When considering a career as a medical assistant, individuals may have the option to attend a trade school or a traditional college to obtain the necessary education and training.
1. Medical Assistant Trade School:
– Focus on Vocational Training: Medical assistant trade schools typically offer specialized vocational training programs that focus specifically on preparing students for careers in healthcare as medical assistants.
– Shorter Duration: Trade school programs for medical assistants are often shorter in duration compared to traditional college programs, typically ranging from 6 months to 2 years.
– Hands-On Training: Trade schools emphasize hands-on training and practical skills development to prepare students for the demands of the healthcare industry.
– Career-Focused Curriculum: The curriculum in medical assistant trade schools is tailored to provide students with the specific skills and knowledge needed to excel in the role of a medical assistant.
– The Allen School of Health Sciences has a blended program of online and hands-on training in a clinical classroom setting. Students at the Allen School can graduate in as little as nine months.
2. Traditional College:
– Broad Academic Curriculum: Traditional colleges offer a broader range of academic programs and courses beyond vocational training. Students may have the opportunity to explore a wider range of subjects and disciplines.
– Longer Duration: College programs for medical assistants may take longer to complete, as students often need to fulfill general education requirements in addition to coursework specific to medical assisting. At the Allen School of Health Sciences students are only taking the classes they need to become a medical assistant.
– Emphasis on Theory and Research: Traditional college programs typically include more theoretical and research-based coursework in addition to hands-on training. Students may have opportunities for academic research and critical thinking.
– Degree Options: Colleges may offer associate or bachelor’s degree programs in medical assisting, providing students with the opportunity to earn a degree in addition to a certification.
The choice between attending a medical assistant trade school or a traditional college depends on individual preferences, career goals, and learning style. Trade schools may be a more direct and faster path to entering the workforce as a medical assistant, while traditional colleges may offer a more comprehensive academic experience. It is important for individuals to research and compare program offerings, accreditation, cost, and career outcomes to make an informed decision that aligns with their career aspirations. The Allen School of Health Sciences has been in the New York area for over sixty years and has assisted and trained thousands of people for their new careers in healthcare.