School of Health Sciences

Medical Assistant

Start a Career in Healthcare That Makes a Difference

If you’ve always imagined yourself in scrubs, supporting patients and healthcare teams, the Medical Assistant program at Rockford Career College can help turn that vision into a reality. In under a year, you can learn the clinical and administrative skills needed to work in doctors’ offices, clinics, and outpatient care centers.

From drawing blood and taking vital signs to updating patient records and scheduling appointments, medical assistants are trained to do it all. Our program gives you a strong foundation in both hands-on clinical procedures and day-to-day office operations, so you’re ready for real-world responsibilities the moment you graduate.

You’ll learn in small classes, work with instructors who’ve been in the field, and complete a supervised externship that helps you build confidence on the job. It’s a direct path to a career that matters—one that starts right here at Rockford Career College.

Quick Program Facts

Medical Assistant Diploma
Perfect for individuals who want to work in patient care and healthcare support.

DURATION: 10 Months
CREDENTIALS: Diploma
FORMAT: Hybrid: On-Campus/Online/Externships
CREDITS: 60 quarter credit hours

Graduate workforce-ready in less than a year with relevant, real-world medical assisting experience.

Build Clinical Confidence Through Hands-On Learning

Our curriculum combines clinical training and medical office operations to prepare you for a wide range of healthcare environments.

What You’ll Learn

  • Clinical Procedures: Learn how to perform EKGs, assist during exams, draw blood, and take vital signs.

  • Medical Office Administration: Get familiar with patient scheduling, billing, and electronic health records (EHR).

  • Anatomy & Physiology: Understand how the body works so you can better support patient care.

  • Medical Terminology: Learn the language used across healthcare settings for clear, accurate communication.

  • Externship Experience: Put your skills into practice during a supervised externship at a local healthcare facility.

By the time you complete the program, you’ll be equipped with the practical skills employers look for—and the confidence to step into your new career.

Career Paths with a Medical Assistant Diploma

Medical assistants are valuable members of healthcare teams across a wide range of settings, from private practices to urgent care clinics. With training in both clinical and administrative tasks, you’ll be qualified for diverse entry-level roles.

Career paths for Medical Assistant graduates may include:

  • Medical Assistant
  • Clinical Assistant
  • EKG Technician
  • Phlebotomy Technician
  • Patient Services Coordinator

You’re ready to do something different — let’s take the next step together.

At Rockford Career College, we believe that everyone deserves a chance to build a better future. That’s why our admissions process is designed to be clear, supportive, and all about helping you succeed — from your very first conversation with us.

To be eligible for enrollment, students must:

  • Be at least 17 years old. (If under 18, a parent or legal guardian must also sign the enrollment agreement.)
  • Possess a high school diploma, recognized equivalency (GED, HiSET, TASC), or qualifying college degree.
  • Demonstrate digital readiness to ensure you’re prepared to thrive in a modern learning environment.

Every applicant will meet with an admissions advisor to: help answer your questions, walk you through the process, and help you determine if this is the right path for your goals and lifestyle.

We’re looking for students who are:

  • Motivated to change their lives
  • Committed to their personal and professional growth
  • Ready to work hard and make a real impact in their community


Click here to apply online

  • Meet the admissions requirements
  • Attend all classes, in-person and online
  • Be an active participant in the requirements of the classwork, homework and community
  • Complete all courses to a satisfactory degree
  • Demonstrate proficiency of skills

Flexible. Focused. Built for real life.

Most programs are blended, combining scheduled on-campus classes with online coursework. This gives you the hands-on training you need — plus the flexibility to complete assignments at home.

You’ll typically take two classes every five weeks and should plan for 12–15 hours per week of homework and studying. Instructors also offer live virtual office hours for extra support.

Whether you’re working, parenting, or have other commitments — we’ll help make school work for you.

Q: Do I need to have a background in healthcare to apply?

No, we teach you from the beginning and help you get the skills and confidence to be a successful medical assistant.

Q: How is the Medical Assistant program different from becoming a nurse?

Medical assistants are cross-trained to handle both patient care and front-office tasks. It’s a faster path into healthcare than nursing, with fewer prerequisites and no licensure exams required to start working.

Q: What are the requirements to enroll in this program?

To get started, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent. Our admissions team will guide you through the rest, from submitting transcripts to getting your schedule set.

Q: Is it possible to work while I attend school?

Absolutely. Many Rockford students hold jobs while in school. The 10-month program is designed to be manageable, even with a busy schedule.

Q: What kinds of support will I have as a student?

From your first day to graduation, you’ll have access to academic advising, tutoring, career coaching, and tech support. At Rockford, you’re never navigating the journey alone.

Next Session Starts: September 8, 2025

Associate Degree

After you complete the Medical Assistant Diploma Program, you could continue with our online, 7-month Healthcare Administration Associate Degree completion program. That’s only 17 months total to get an associate degree.

Location: Rockford, IL

Questions about our Rockford campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
Get In touch

Schedule a Tour

See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
Book Your Campus Tour

Diploma Program

Medical Assistant

Medical Assistant Program Highlights

Why Medical Assistant Students Choose Rockford Career College

  • Hands-On Learning: Practice skills in lab sessions and a real-world externship.
  • Focused Curriculum: Learn only what you need—no filler courses.
  • Small Class Sizes: Work closely with instructors who know the field.
  • Fast-Track Format: Complete your training and enter the workforce in just 10 months.

Associate Degree

After you complete the Medical Assistant Diploma Program, you could continue with our online, 7-month Healthcare Administration Associate Degree completion program. That’s only 17 months total to get an associate degree.

Location: Rockford, IL

Questions about our Rockford campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
Get in Touch

Schedule a Tour

See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
Book Your Campus Tour

Financial Aid

We’ll Help You Invest in Your Future

Rockford Career College offers financial aid for those who qualify, and our financial aid team will walk you through every option available—so you can focus on building your career.

Ready To Change Your Life?

Testimonials