Medical Administrative Specialist Associate Degree

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Medical Administrative Specialist

Program Number: 101604

Your Degree: Associate Degree

Estimated Time to Complete: 62 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years

Delivery Method: 100% Online

Area of Study: Business

Estimated Program Cost: $11,511.10

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Program Overview
The Medical Administrative Specialist degree program will prepare you to provide advanced-level administrative support in a hospital, doctor’s office, clinic, or any healthcare organization. Gain real-world insights from our instructors as you learn the top-notch skills required be an effective medical administrative professional in today’s healthcare industry.
Graduates from this program are qualified to complete professional examinations and earn certification(s) through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Voluntary, eligible certifications include Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS), and/or Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS). NHA is the national leader in allied health professional certifications and is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.
Please note: Healthcare employers require all applicants to complete and pass a background check as a condition of employment.
Get credit for your experience and prior learning.
Program Details
Students in the Medical, Administrative Specialist program can attend full or part-time.
Medical Administrative Specialist associate degree classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus.
Careers
Madison College's Medical Administrative Specialist associate degree graduates are ready for a range of professional positions in the field of medical administration, including:
Admitting/Discharge Clerk
Authorization Representative
Business Operations Specialist
Clinical Administrative Coordinator
Clinical Operations Assistant
Department/Clinic Assistant
Executive Assistant
Experience Specialist
Healthcare Documentation Auditor
Healthcare Documentation Scribe
Health Unit Coordinator
Insurance Claims Processor
Medical Administrative Assistant
Medical Billing Specialist
Medical Office Assistant
Medical Receptionist
Medical Records Clerk
Patient Access Representative
Patient Appointment Scheduler
Patient Placement Specialist
Program Assistant
Word Processing Operator
Get Certified!
Prepare for professional exams
Earn certifications through the National Health Career Association (NHA)
Program Courses

Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester
10-103-104
Microsoft Teams and Integrated Applications
This course introduces Microsoft Teams as a collaboration and communication tool within Microsoft 365. Students learn to create teams, manage meetings, share files, and collaborate in real time using channels and integrated apps such as Forms, Planner, Lists, Whiteboard, and Loop. Emphasis is placed on productivity, digital etiquette, and ethical and responsible use of digital tools. Competency in Windows and file management required.
1 credit
10-103-120
Digital Learning Foundations
Introduces essential digital tools and resources at Madison College. Students will explore the student homepage and key support resources, navigate important features within Brightspace, develop skills in digital file management using File Explorer/Finder and OneDrive, download and utilize Microsoft 365 applications and web conferencing tools, and conclude with an introduction to the role of AI in their educational journey.
1 credit
10-106-100
Mindset for Success
Designed to foster the attitudes and skills that can inspire and empower you throughout your career regardless of your chosen path. Develop and improve skills in creativity, ambition, critical thinking, innovation, opportunistic thinking, and teamwork through experiential and problem-solving approaches. Become an engaged workplace contributor and develop a workforce-ready mindset.
3 credits
10-106-107
Business Document Applications
Achieve expert-level word processing skills by learning on Microsoft Office Word. Students will utilize the software to solve practical problems in a project-based format. Explore fundamentals and best practices in document creation, editing, formatting, collaboration, tables, mail merge, desktop publishing, themes, templates, forms, and macros. Students must have the ability to key 30 WPM.
3 credits
10-160-178
Medical Language for the Business Professional 1
This course is designed to give the beginning medical business student a working knowledge of basic anatomy, medical language, and pharmacology. Students explore general anatomy through body system study. Students explore medical language, including how medical terms are formed, and become familiar with the meaning of word roots, prefixes, and suffixes, as well as spell, define, and pronounce medical terms through understanding word components in a contextual format. Students will exhibit mastery in the use of medical dictionaries and resource materials and will demonstrate application of medical language through written documentation and communication skills. Fundamentals are discussed in relationship to health practices by body system and by the body as a whole, including pathology, diagnostic tools, therapeutic procedures, and medical imaging. A focus on medical specialty pharmacology is also incorporated into each unit of study.
3 credits
10-801-195
Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.
3 credits
Second Semester
10-103-165
Outlook
Use Microsoft's messaging and personal information management program. Communicate by email; schedule appointments, meetings and events; manage the Inbox, contact lists, tasks, notes, and to-do lists; categorize and flag messages; track and archive messages; configure and customize Outlook; manage Outlook components; integrate Outlook options; create quick steps and rules; configure autoarchive settings, work with news feeds.
1 credit
10-106-109
Business Spreadsheet Applications
Create professional, data-driven workbooks using Microsoft Excel. Develop skills with formulas, functions, worksheet formatting, charts, tables, conditional formatting, multiple worksheets and workbooks, templates, data validation, worksheet protection, and macros. Import and cleanse data, perform what-if analysis using Scenario Manager, Data Tables, and Solver, and complete loan amortization, investment analysis, and asset depreciation calculations.
3 credits
10-106-164
Customer Contact Skills
Develop a foundation in customer service knowledge and skills through inquiry and analysis of internal and external customers, verbal and nonverbal communication, listening techniques, critical thinking and problem-solving, as well as adding value to customer service interactions. Focus on the impact of technology on customer service, analyze service breakdowns and recovery, examine customer loyalty programs, and explore the diverse customer base within our global economy.
2 credits
10-160-165
Medical Administrative Procedures
Learn administrative skills and techniques for efficient and effective function within the electronic medical office environment. Through the use of an electronic practice management platform, practical application workflow activities include patient demographics, appointment scheduling, healthcare documentation and template use, patient billing and reimbursement, insurance claims and payments, patient statements, and financial and clinical reports. Other topics include telephone procedures, introduction to diagnostic and procedural coding, diversity in healthcare, effective business meetings, travel arrangements and itineraries, and qualities of a successful healthcare professional.
3 credits
10-160-179
Medical Language for the Business Professional 2
This course builds upon Medical Language for the Business Professional 1 and is designed to advance the medical business student’s working medical language. Students explore general anatomy through body system study. Students explore medical language, including how medical terms are formed, and become familiar with the meaning of word roots, prefixes, and suffixes, as well as spell, define, and pronounce medical terms through understanding word components in a contextual format. Students will exhibit mastery in the use of medical dictionaries and resource materials and will demonstrate application of medical language through written documentation and communication skills. Fundamentals are discussed as they relate to evaluation of health practices by body system and by the body as a whole and includes the study of pathology, diagnostic tools, therapeutic procedures, and medical imaging. A focus on medical specialty pharmacology is also incorporated into each unit of study.
3 credits
10-801-196
Oral/Interpersonal Communication
Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.
3 credits
10-804-123
Math with Business Applications
This course integrates algebraic concepts, proportions, percents, simple interest, compound interest, annuities, and basic statistics with business/consumer scenarios. It also applies math concepts to the purchasing/buying and selling processes.
3 credits
Third Semester
10-106-106
Business Writing and Research
Apply effective writing strategies to compose employment-related correspondence including business letters, memos, informal reports, and formal reports. Learn to use correct-order writing plans as well as appropriate tone, etiquette, and style. Apply writing, researching, and critical thinking skills in the context of real business writing scenarios. Reinforcement of grammar, punctuation, and proofreading will be integrated throughout the course.
3 credits
10-106-112
Event Planning & Coordination
Learn to plan and coordinate business meetings and events using event management processes such as goal setting, developing objectives, planning and implementation of event logistics, facility set up, and follow-up activities.
3 credits
10-106-190
Professional Development
Get fully prepared for your job or internship search! Build an electronic portfolio by creating an effective resume, cover letter, and thank you letter. Polish interviewing, networking, and personal branding skills. Learn effective techniques to present yourself to employers for job prospects or promotions.
1 credit
10-106-231
Business Presentations and Publications
Explore key graphic design principles and best practices for designing and presenting. Using Microsoft PowerPoint, incorporate graphics, SmartArt, icons, multimedia elements, charts, and tables to engage your audience. Add transitions and professional animations. Work with the Slide Master to fully customize presentations. Develop eye-catching handouts, flyers, social media posts, and presentations using free online graphic design tools such as Canva. Prerequisite: Windows competency, including solid file management skills. This course uses Microsoft Office PowerPoint and Canva.
3 credits
10-160-166
Clinical & Business Documentation Techniques
Learn guidelines for accurate electronic health record documentation. Applying the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity standards, mastery of clinical documentation rules for capitalization; measurement and quantitation; abbreviations; grammar and punctuation; reference materials; plurals and possessives; business correspondence formats; and an exploration of specialty standards with an emphasis on quality clinical documentation.
3 credits
10-809-172
Introduction to Diversity Studies
This course introduces the study of diversity from a local to a global perspective using a holistic, interdisciplinary approach that encourages exploration and prepares students to work in a diverse environment. The course introduces basic diversity concepts, examines the impact of bias and power differentials among groups, explores the use of culturally responsive communication strategies, and compares forces that shape diversity in an international context.
3 credits
Fourth Semester
10-103-169
Collaboration and Productivity Tools
Learn, compare, and analyze the successful use of collaboration and social media tools used in organizations today. Organize notes, images, files, and correspondence with Microsoft OneNote; build a customized online calendar to track meetings and tasks; explore and participate in social media applications from a business perspective; examine video conferencing systems and take part in a live web meeting; utilize SharePoint to store and manage files. This course uses Microsoft Office 365/OneNote 2019.
1 credit
10-106-126
Software Capstone
This course is based upon knowledge learned in previous courses using multiple software applications including but not limited to: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access. Apply industry-standard formats to business correspondence including, business letters, reports, and publications. Manage information, apply critical-thinking skills to real-world scenarios, research topics, and compose a variety of integrated business documents, spreadsheets, databases, and presentations.
3 credits
10-160-177
Specialized Insurance Claims
Identifies in-depth insurance knowledge following the healthcare revenue cycle. Explore healthcare law. Investigate private payers, Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, CHAMPVA, worker's compensation, and disability insurance. Knowledge of deductibles, coinsurance, copayments, exclusions, medical necessity, referrals, prior authorization, coordination of benefits, COBRA, Charity Care, collections, pre-existing periods, allowed amounts, malpractice, outpatient benefits, and lifetime maximums. Intermediate diagnostic, procedural, and HCPCS coding. Claims reimbursement methods, contractual allowances, fee schedules, and other rules to facilitate timely payment of claims.
3 credits
10-160-192
Applied Clinical Documentation
An introduction to practical application of clinical documentation practices. Develop a working knowledge of specialized medical report formats, speech recognition editing skills, and beginning medical transcription technical skills. Build upon medical and pharmacology knowledge, clinical documentation techniques, proofreading, editing, and research skills, with a focus on efficient and accurate clinical documentation.
3 credits
10-160-199
Medical Administrative Specialist Practicum
This simulated practicum is designed to take students’ skills to the next level. As the program’s capstone course, it should be completed in the last (graduating) semester. Students who have medical administrative work experience may consider completing the experiential credit portfolio.
1 credit
10-809-199
Psychology of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.
3 credits
How to Apply
To Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Note: It is recommended to only apply for a semester that has already started if you are currently enrolled in classes, or you have verified that classes are still available for that semester.
Application Dates
Fall 2026
Application open
Application completion deadline is November 15, 2026
Spring 2027
Application open
Application completion deadline is April 15, 2027
Summer 2027
Application available on September 15, 2026
Application completion deadline is July 15, 2027
Fall 2027
Application available on October 15, 2026
Application completion deadline is November 15, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
GED/HSED completion
College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a certificate or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the certificate.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Medical Administrative Specialist career.
It's Free to Apply
Transfer Opportunities

UW System Schools
UW Oshkosh
The terms of the B.S in Leadership & Org Studies agreement are limited to students who complete selective A.A.S or A.A.A. degrees and are admitted to the Organizational Studies emphasis at UW-Oshkosh. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
Wisconsin Private Schools
Lakeland University
Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.
Out-of-State Schools
Franklin University
Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree.

Career Outcomes

After completing the Medical Administrative Specialist program at Madison Area Technical College, you will be able to:

Demonstrate effective workplace communications.
Apply technology skills to business and administrative tasks.
Perform routine healthcare administrative procedures.
Maintain internal and external relationships.
Model professionalism in the workplace.
Process insurance claims.

Graduate Summary

Graduate Report Summary Overview
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of Program Graduates	8	6	7
Number of Surveys Sent	8	6	7
Number of Surveys Returned	7	3	5
Percent of Surveys Returned
Available for Employment	5	3	5
Percent Available for Employment	71.4%	100.0%	100.0%
Not in Labor Market
Percent Not in Labor Market	28.6%	0.0%	0.0%

Available for Employment
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Graduates Employed	4	2	5
Percent of Graduates Employed	80.0%	66.7%	100.0%
Employed in Related Occupation	4	1	2
Percent Employed in Related Occupation	100.0%	50.0%	40.0%
Employed in Unrelated Occupation	0	1	3
Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation	0.0%	50.0%	60.0%
Employed - No Response	0	0	0
Percent Employed - No Response	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Seeking Employment	1	1	0
Percent Seeking Employment	20.0%	33.3%	0.0%

Reaction To Training at Madison College
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4)	3.6	3.7	3.4
Number of Satisfaction Responses	7	3	5
Very Satisfied (4)	4	2	2
Percent Very Satisfied	57.1%	66.7%	40.0%
Satisfied (3)	3	1	3
Percent Satisfied	42.9%	33.3%	60.0%
Unsatisfied (2)	0	0	0
Percent Unsatisfied	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Very Unsatisfied (1)
Percent Very Unsatisfied	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%

Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of Primary Reason Responses	7	3	5
Preparation for Getting a Job	2	0	0
Percent Preparation for Getting a Job	28.6%	0.0%	0.0%
Career Change	2	3	4
Percent Career Change	28.6%	100.0%	80.0%
Improvement of Existing Skills	2	0	1
Percent Improvement of Existing Skills	28.6%	0.0%	20.0%
Preparation for Further Education	1	0	0
Percent Preparation for Further Education	14.3%	0.0%	0.0%
Personal Interest	0	0	0
Percent Personal Interest	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Other	0	0	0
Percent Other	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%

When Employment was Obtained
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of When Employment Obtained Responses	4	2	5
Before Enrollment	1	1	3
Percent Before Enrollment	25.0%	50.0%	60.0%
While Attending the College	2	0	1
Percent While Attending the College	50.0%	0.0%	20.0%
After Training at the College	1	1	1
Percent After Training at the College	25.0%	50.0%	20.0%

Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of Employment Location Responses	4	2	5
In College District	3	1	3
Percent In College District	75.0%	50.0%	60.0%
In Wisconsin, Not in District	1	1	0
Percent of In Wisconsin	25.0%	50.0%	0.0%
Outside of Wisconsin	0	0	0
Percent Outside Wisconsin	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Employer Location Unknown	0	0	2
Percent Location Unknown	0.0%	0.0%	40.0%

Salary Trend
Salary Trend		2023	2024	2025
Full Time Employment (Related Job)	Full Time Salary Count	3	1
	Average Monthly Wage	$4,072	$4,296
	Average Hourly Wage	$23.68	$24.98
	Average Work Hours per Week	40.0	37.0
Part Time Employment (Related Job)	Part Time Salary Count	1		1
	Average Hourly Wage	$18.00		$19.50
	Average Work Hours per Week	32.0		32.5

Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025
Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions
Watertown Memorial Hospital Revenue Cycle Specialist Watertown
* - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu