Medical Assistant

Technical Degree

Why Medical Assistant?

Medical assistants are at the heart of healthcare, performing a wide variety of clinical and administrative duties that keep medical offices running efficiently. This profession calls for compassion, organization, and strong communication skills that make it deeply meaningful for those who choose to serve patients and providers alike.

At Mid-State, you’ll learn in both classroom and clinical settings, gaining hands-on experience in area medical offices and clinics. Students benefit from hands-on simulation experiences in the Healthcare Simulation Center that enhance and support their clinical training. The program builds your administrative and clinical expertise, preparing you for national certification exams and long-term career success. Graduates consistently achieve above-average pass rates and enter the workforce ready to make a difference.

Program Facts

Total Credits
29 Credits
Degree Type
Technical Degree
Program Length
One Year
Delivery Method
In Person, Hybrid
Location
Start Dates
Fall, Spring
Estimated Program
Cost
$6,285.67
Financial Aid Eligibility
Fully Eligible

Program Outcomes

Graduates leave ready to succeed in their careers. Each year, data from Mid-State's Graduate Survey and statewide reports show consistently high satisfaction and strong starting salaries. Here's a snapshot of what success looks like after graduation.

Career Opportunities

Appointment Clerk (Medical/Dental)
Medical Administrative Assistant
Medical Assistant
Medical Records Clerk
Patient Services Representative
$48k Median Annual Salary
Recent program grads in Wisconsin earned a starting salary of $47,587. Source: Lightcast Data Set
510
Average Monthly Hires
510 of recent Wisconsin program grads landed jobs within six months of graduation. Source: Lightcast Data Set
100%
Mid-State Graduate Satisfaction Rate
Students leave proud, prepared, and confident in what comes next. Source: Mid-State Graduate Survey Results

Program Details

Take a closer look at what the program offers and what to expect.

Your course plan may vary, and you'll get a recommended sequence once you're enrolled. See below for full course details, see the program information guide, or talk with your advisor.

Program Information Guide (PDF)

Meet our full-time instructors.

Tom Ekstrand, AAS, BA, CMA (AAMA)
Tom holds an AAS in medical assisting from Rasmussen University as well as a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with a minor in computer science and secondary education from Lewis University. He also attended Northcentral Technical College for his Medical Assistant technical diploma and is a certified medical assistant by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Prior to coming to Mid-State Tom worked as a medical assistant for seven years with Aspirus. He also has experience in all levels of education, from elementary school through community college.

“I believe that teaching is a combined effort between the educator and the learner, in an effort to reach a common goal.”

Nichol Soik, BS, CMA (AAMA)
Nichol earned her BS in health science with an emphasis in public health from Excelsior University and her medical assistant technical diploma from Fox Valley Technical College. She also holds a CMA (AAMA) credential. Her CMA experience includes family practice and mentoring students during their clinical rotation. She has also worked for the VA as a health tech performing phlebotomy and preparing specimens for transportation and testing. Nichol regularly attends continuing education through the American Association of Medical Assistants to keep up with the educational demands of the ever-changing medical field. 

“I enjoy providing an enriching environment for students to flourish through education and hands-on experience in a field I am very passionate about.”

Employers will expect graduates of this program to be able to:

  • Perform medical office administrative functions.
  • Provide patient care in accordance with regulations, policies, laws, and patient rights.
  • Perform medical laboratory procedures.
  • Demonstrate professionalism in a health care setting.
  • Demonstrate safety and emergency practices in a health care setting.

Alongside your career training, you'll develop key workplace strengths. Explore the additional skills you'll build.

Employability Skills (PDF)

To succeed in this program, you'll need to meet certain technical standards. These are the key skills and abilities needed for the program and future career success—with or without reasonable accommodations. Be sure to review them carefully before you apply.

Technical Standards (PDF)

Explore the resources and next steps below. Your academic advisor will help you know what to complete and when.

Criminal Background Form

Medical Assistant Program Handbook (PDF)

Occupational Risks for Medical Assistants (PDF)

Career Pathways

Career pathways help you build your education step by step. Each stage offers one or more credentials that are recognized by employers and lead to real jobs—and you can keep building toward your career goals as you go.

Prior Learning

Certificate

Technical Diploma

Associate Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Get credit for what you already know. You may be able to earn college credit for prior learning through skills you’ve gained through high school classes, previous college work, self-study, military training, jobs, or volunteer experience.

  1. Credit for Prior Learning
  2. High School Dual Credit
  3. Mid-State Fast-Track – Open to high school students

Explore Other Options

Other Programs

Explore more Mid-State programs and find your path to success.

Workforce Training

Not ready for a full degree? Learn job-ready skills with our workforce training options.

Continuing Education

Add a new skill, explore a hobby, or take the next step in your career with our lifelong learning options.