The Medical Assistant Program develops the skills needed for a career as a medical assistant, trained in either administrative (front office) or multiskilled (front and back office) skills. The Ventura College program offers separate A.S. degrees and certificates in Medical Assistant – Administrative and Medical Assistant – Multi Skilled. Students obtain effective communication skills, computer skills, and technical skills that lead to success working in a variety of healthcare settings. Students who meet specific requirements have the opportunity to gain invaluable real-world experience through clinical externships, which offer hands-on training and exposure to diverse healthcare environments. Careers in this field include front office medical assistant, back office medical assistant, hospital admitting clerk, medical receptionist, patient service representative, and entry-level medical records clerk. Students who complete this program may be eligible to take the CACMA certification exam offered by the California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants to become a California Certified Medical Assistant.