| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2026-01-01 | - |
| 2026-03-01 | - |
Program Overview
Medical Office Assistant and Unit Clerk
About
This certificate program prepares graduates to manage information and administrative workflows in a fast-paced health care setting. Learners acquire knowledge and skills in health care fundamentals, health organizations, medical terminology, digital literacy, office administration, unit coordination, medical orders, health billing, health information systems, clinical skills, and communication strategies.
Time Commitment
This is a one-year (two-term) certificate program. A standard course load is five courses per term. Students can maintain full-time status with at least three courses. Taking less than five courses per term will take longer to complete the program.
Learning Options
Looking for a flexible Medical Office Assistant and Unit Clerk program? Our flexible learning options are designed to accommodate your needs and fit your lifestyle.
- Regular option: Attend classes in-person, online, or via Hyflex (live in-class or virtual classes, with video recordings available if unable to attend). Scheduled classes are typically held weekdays.
- Weekend Option: In-person classes Saturday and Sunday.
Program Accreditation
The Medical Office Assistant and Unit Clerk program is accredited with the Canadian College of Health Information Management. This program meets the quality and educational program standards set out for the Health Information-Certified Associate (HICA) certification. Graduates of the Medical Office Assistant and Unit Clerk Certificate are eligible to write the Health Information-Certified Associate (HICA) National Certification Exam (NCE) and can begin their career as a certified health information professional.
Bow Valley College is a proud partner of the Canadian College of Health Information Management (College). The College is a national, not-for-profit corporation that sets the accreditation standards for educational institutions and certification standards for health information professionals in Canada.
Admission Requirements
- Credit in English Language Arts 30-1 or minimum 65% in English Language Arts 30-2 or equivalent
- Credit in a Grade 10 math (excluding Math 10-4 and Math 16 levels)
or
Successful completion of the General Educational Development (GED) test that consists of five tests with a minimum score in the following sections:
- Language Arts: Reading and Writing: 520 minimum standard score
- Math Test: 450 minimum score
or
- Satisfactory results on the Bow Valley College Admission and Placement Test
You need one of the following options:
English Language Proficiency Requirements
For applicants whose first language is not English, please review English language proficiency requirements.
Academic Upgrading
Enhance your previous education to meet the missing admissions requirements for one of the BVC programs.
Available Intakes
- September 2025
- January 2026
- March 2026
Tuition and Fees
Domestic Students
| Term | Tuition Fees | Additional Fees | Total Fees* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | $2,826 | $605 | $3,431 |
| Term 2 | $2,936 | $605 | $3,541 |
International Students
| Term | Tuition Fees | Additional Fees | Total Fees* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | $7,104 | $605 | $7,709 |
| Term 2 | $8,442 | $605 | $9,047 |
*All tuition and fees are subject to change. Program tuitions are estimates only. Your actual tuition and fees are calculated on actual course registrations and can be viewed under "Statement of Account" in MyBVC or by requesting a Statement of Account from Registrar Services.
Courses
Term 1
| Code | Course | Credit | |
|---|---|---|---|
| HUCL1101 | Role Concepts in Health Care | 3 | picturepdf |
| HUCL1201 | Introduction to Health Care Fundamentals | 3 | picturepdf |
| HUCL1401 | Medical Terminology | 3 | picturepdf |
| MGMT1201 | Business Communication | 3 | picturepdf |
| MGMT1302 | Computer Applications | 3 | picturepdf |
Term 2
| Code | Course | Credit | |
|---|---|---|---|
| HUCL1301 | Fundamentals of Medical Orders | 3 | picturepdf |
| HUCL1601 | Unit Coordinating Skills | 3 | picturepdf |
| MOAS1201 | Administrative Skills for Health Care | 3 | picturepdf |
| MOAS1301 | Financial Management for the Medical Office | 3 | picturepdf |
| MOAS1401 | Clinical Skills for the Medical Office | 3 | picturepdf |
Earn at least 3 credits from the following courses:
| Code | Course | Credit | |
|---|---|---|---|
| MOAS1997 | Medical Office Assistant and Unit Clerk Applied Research and Capstone Project | 3 | picturepdf |
| MOAS1998 | Medical Office Assistant and Unit Clerk Service Learning | 3 | picturepdf |
| MOAS1999 | Field Placement for Medical Office Assistants and Unit Clerks | 3 | picturepdf |
Bow Valley College
Overview:
Bow Valley College is a public post-secondary institution located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It offers a wide range of programs and services to students, including diploma programs, certificates, apprenticeships, and continuing education courses. The college is known for its commitment to applied learning and its focus on preparing students for successful careers.
Services Offered:
Bow Valley College provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Services:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing support, and other resources to help students succeed in their studies.Financial Services:
Information and assistance with student loans, bursaries, and scholarships.New Student Orientation:
Programs and events to help new students transition to college life.Office of the Registrar:
Services related to registration, transcripts, and graduation.Learner Success Services:
Support for students with disabilities, mental health services, and other personal and academic support.Student Association:
A student-run organization that provides social and advocacy services.RGO Library and Learning Commons:
Access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, computers, and study spaces.Intercultural Centre:
Programs and services to support international students and students from diverse backgrounds.Iniikokaan Centre:
Services and resources for Indigenous students.Bookstore:
Textbooks, supplies, and other merchandise.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Bow Valley College offers a vibrant campus experience with opportunities for student engagement, social activities, and community involvement. Students can participate in clubs, sports teams, and other extracurricular activities. The college also has a strong focus on student support and provides a variety of resources to help students succeed.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Job-Ready Programs:
Bow Valley College's programs are designed to prepare students for in-demand careers.Applied Learning:
The college emphasizes hands-on learning and practical experience.Experienced Faculty:
Bow Valley College has a dedicated and experienced faculty who are committed to student success.Supportive Environment:
The college provides a welcoming and supportive environment for students from all backgrounds.Regional Campuses:
Students can access programs and services at regional campuses in Airdrie, Cochrane, and Okotoks.Academic Programs:
Bow Valley College offers a wide range of academic programs in various fields, including:
Entertainment Arts
Business
Technology
Community Studies
Health and Wellness
Careers in Immigrant Advancement
Continuing Education
Academic Upgrading
English Language Learning
Open Studies
Other:
Bow Valley College is recognized as one of the top 50 Research Colleges in Canada. The college's Research and Innovation department focuses on applied research, teaching excellence, curriculum design, and workforce development.
