The Medical Assisting diploma program is certified by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and prepares competent entry-level Medical Assistants in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains. The Medical Assisting diploma program also prepares the competent entry-level Medical Assistants in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains, prepares the student to sit for the national certification examination to become professionally certified as a medical assistant and prepares students for careers in a variety of positions in today's medical facilities. The sequence of courses emphasizes a combination of medical theory and practical application necessary for successful employment. The grading system for Medical Assisting requires a minimum course grade of C for progress from specified courses to more advanced courses. Classroom instruction and practical experience are divided between administrative skills and clinical skills in a variety of areas: scheduling appointments, banking, bookkeeping, insurance coding, hospital admissions, laboratory services, maintaining patient files, examination room techniques, assisting with minor surgery, administering medications, and performing diagnostic procedures including lab work and electrocardiography. During the program, the student gains experience in a physician's office or appropriate facility by participating in an externship. Clinical externship(s) may be scheduled day, evening, and on weekends. There is no remuneration for clinicals.