Program Overview

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Program Overview

The Medical Assistant program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to offer administrative support to medical professionals in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and physicians’ offices. The curriculum aligns with current healthcare practices, offering practical and in-demand skills.

Core Information

• Area of Interest: Health & Human Services
• Credential: Certificate
• Program Length: 1 Year | Full time (10 months of study)
• Delivery: Hybrid (online and in-classroom)
• Practicum: Yes, 7 weeks
• Campus: Pembina
• Tuition: $6,116.00*

*Tuition amounts are estimated rates and subject to change. Amounts presented here do not include additional fees, textbooks, or supply costs. For a total estimate, click here.

Program Highlights

• CHIMA Accreditation: This program is accredited by the Canadian Health Information Management Association (CHIMA), ensuring that students receive training that meets industry standards. Graduates are prepared to challenge the Health Information-Certified Associate (HICA) designation, enhancing their employability in healthcare settings.
• Extensive Hands-On Practicum Experience: Students participate in a seven-week work practicum to gain on-the-job training and experience in a local workplace.
• State-of-the-Art Simulation Lab: Training includes hands-on learning in MITT’s patient care simulation lab, where students gain practical experience in clinical procedures, medical technology, and office administration in a controlled environment.
• Bridging to Work Workshops: MITT’s bridging-to-work workshops equip students with essential job search and professional development skills, helping them transition seamlessly into healthcare careers.

Career Outcomes

• Billing and coding specialist
• Medical assistant
• Medical transcriptionist

Entry Requirements

• Manitoba high school diploma (or expected completion within 45 days of the program start date), or equivalent.
• Grade 12 Math (40S) with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
• Grade 12 English Language Arts (40S) with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
• Grade 11 Biology (30S) with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.

International Students

• High school diploma (or expected completion within 45 days of the program start date), or equivalent.
• International applicants must meet the general entrance requirements based on country/curriculum of study.
• Senior level Math with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
• Senior level First Language Literature with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
• Senior level Biology with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
• All high school grades will be converted to an equivalent Manitoba grade scale.

Additional Requirements

• Demonstrated English language proficiency (if educated outside Canada).

Tuition and Fees

Estimated Program Costs

Tuition | $6,116
Fees | $865
Estimated Textbook Costs | $700
Total Estimated Program Costs | $7,681.00

Costs are estimates and are subject to change. Visit Tuition and Fees and Program Information for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of work placement experience is included?

Eligible students participate in a seven–week work practicum to gain on-the-job training and experience in a local workplace.

What do I need to do to qualify for my work placement?

Pre-Practicum Clearance Requirements

To be eligible for practicum, students must meet the following requirements:

• Clear Police Information Check (PIC)/Vulnerable Sector (VS) Check (completed in Manitoba, valid for six months)
• Clear Child and Adult Abuse Registry Checks (valid for six months, covering practicum duration)
• Current, approved immunization record as per WRHA guidelines
• International students: Valid co-op work permit

Additional notes:

• Students must meet all clearance requirements, or they may be ineligible for practicum placement and program completion.
• Students are responsible for all costs associated with these clearances.
• Clearance documents must be obtained within the timelines specified by MITT.
• Students are covered by Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) insurance during their practicum.
• MITT may assign students to out-of-town placements, including remote regional health facilities such as The Pas, Thompson, and Churchill. Students are responsible for covering all transportation and accommodation expenses for these placements.

What credentials or certifications can I pursue?

Graduates are eligible to challenge the Health Information–Certified Associate (HICA) designation through CHIMA (Canadian Health Information Management Association), giving them an edge in the health information field.

Are there career support resources available?

Yes! MITT’s Bridging-to-Work workshops help students prepare for job hunting with resume building, interview prep, and networking strategies.

What tools and supplies will I need for this program?

Textbooks and Supplies

A complete supply list and textbook information can be found on the Program Information page.

Laptop Requirements

Students must bring a Tier 2 laptop for this program. More information and technical specifications are available on the Laptop and Technical Needs page.

Are there campus tours offered for this program?

Yes, we offer campus tours. Explore our Campus Tour options.

Are there financial aid options available for this program?

Yes, financial aid may be available to those who qualify. Explore financial aid options.

Course List

Introduction to the Healthcare Environment (Health-TBD 1) — 42 hours

Explore the diverse roles of healthcare practitioners in Manitoba. Topics include the Canadian Health Care System, government roles, patient and provider rights, culturally appropriate care, and social determinants of health. Minimum Passing Grade: 70%. Course Requirements: None.

Communication Essentials (HHHPG-TBD 1) — 42 hours

Develop essential communication skills for professional settings in Canada. Includes lectures, workshops, discussions, and practical exercises in real-world scenarios. Minimum Passing Grade: 50%. Course Requirements: None.

Anatomy and Physiology 1 (Health-TBD 2) — hours

Learn about human body structure and major system functions essential for maintaining health. Minimum Passing Grade: 70%. Course Requirements: None.

Human Development for Healthcare Professionals (Health-TBD-3) — 42 hours

Study human growth across life stages, focusing on cognitive, emotional, and social development, as well as caregiving techniques. Minimum Passing Grade: 50%. Course Requirements: None.

Software Application Skills (HHHPG-TBD-2) — 42 hours

Learn essential software applications, including spreadsheets, scheduling tools, and research databases. Minimum Passing Grade: 50%. Course Requirements: None.

Communications in Healthcare (Health-TBD-4) — 42 hours

Develop advanced communication skills for interactions with healthcare professionals, patients, and families. Minimum Passing Grade: 70%. Course Requirements: Introduction to the Healthcare Environment, Communication Essentials.

Human Health Conditions and Disease States (Health-TBD-5) — 42 hours

Focus on roles in healthcare, disease management, and culturally appropriate care. Minimum Passing Grade: 70%. Course Requirements: Introduction to the Healthcare Environment, Anatomy and Physiology 1.

Global Citizen (HHHPG-TBD 3) — 42 hours

Examine the relationship between diversity, social justice, and sustainability. Inspired by the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, students gain skills in equity, justice, and intercultural communication. Minimum Passing Grade: 50%. Course Requirements: None.

Medical Terminology (Health-TBD-6) — 42 hours

Study the language of healthcare, covering terms related to body systems and diseases. Emphasis on accurate documentation. Minimum Passing Grade: 70%. Course Requirements: Anatomy and Physiology 1, Human Health Conditions and Disease States.

Medical Office Communications (MOA-TBD 1) — 84 hours

This course teaches the skills necessary for effective medical office communication, including creating and maintaining medical documentation. Students will develop prioritization and workflow management strategies to support patient care and collaboration in a medical environment.

Medical Clinical Procedures I (MOA-TBD 2) — 84 hours

The first in a two-part series, this course introduces foundational clinical procedures. Through hands-on practice, students will develop the skills necessary for success in real-world medical settings.

Medical Procedure Coordination and Billing (MOA-TBD 3) — 12 hours

This course provides students with the skills to coordinate medical procedures and manage clinical billing processes, emphasizing accuracy and efficiency in medical office workflows.

Medical Office Correspondence (MOA-TBD 4) — 84 hours

This advanced course focuses on managing medical correspondence and documentation tasks, including prescriptions, scheduling, and diagnostic coordination. Students will refine their communication skills for professional interactions with patients and healthcare providers.

Medical Clinical Procedures II (MOA-TBD 5) — 84 hours

Building on the foundational knowledge from Clinical Procedures I, this course covers advanced clinical techniques through in-depth simulation and practical activities.

Electronic Medical Record Application (MOA-TBD 6) — 42 hours

This course provides comprehensive training on electronic medical record (EMR) systems, from basic functionalities to advanced features, to streamline medical office workflows.

Medical Office Assistant Practicum (MOA-TBD 7) — 240 hours

This preceptor-led practicum allows students to apply their skills in real-world healthcare settings. Under supervision, students will gain industry experience and develop entry-level competencies.

Healthcare Applied Capstone Project (MOA-TBD 8) — 240 hours

In this capstone project, students integrate their program knowledge to address real-world healthcare challenges. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving to meet project objectives.