Launch your career in a high-demand health care occupation. Medical assistants help
health care providers deliver patient care by performing a variety of clinical and
administrative procedures.
The UAA Medical Assisting program offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Medical Assisting, Occupational Endorsement Certificate (OEC) in Medical Assisting, as well as preparation for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) examination, and
an OEC in Medical Office Coding. Students will build the skills to become a versatile entry-level medical assistant.
Students learn to perform clinical procedures such as drawing blood and removing sutures,
as well as administrative tasks such as medical coding and preparing financial reports.
They will also build communication skills for working with patients and health care
providers.
Medical assistants are multi-skilled allied health professionals who work primarily
in ambulatory settings such as medical offices and clinics. The responsibilities of
medical assistants vary, depending on whether they work in a clinic, hospital, large
group practice, or small private office.
Medical assistants work under the supervision of physicians in their offices or other
medical settings. Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical duties to
help the health care delivery setting run smoothly. They answer telephones, greet
patients, fill out insurance forms, schedule appointments, prepare and maintain medical
records, and manage practice finances. The clinical duties of a medical assistant
may include taking patient histories and vital signs, preparing patients for procedures,
collecting and processing specimens, and preparing and administering medications as
directed by the physician.
Alumni satisfaction rate of 100% according to the 2023 UAA Medical Assisting Annual Report Form.
An in-demand job field with a 100% job placement rate, according to the 2023 UAA Medical
Assisting Annual Report Form, and strong potential for future occupational growth.
Learn from experienced healthcare professionals, such as UAA alumni and other allied
health professionals who support you in and out of the classroom.
Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board.
Monica Roe has built a remarkable career that bridges rural health care and children’s literature, drawing on her decade of experience as a physical therapist in remote Alaska. Now completing her Master of Public Health at UAA, she explores disability, community resilience, and access through both research and storytelling. Her journey highlights the power of curiosity, mentorship, and embracing unexpected opportunities.
In January 2026, students from the College of Health showcased their public health research at the Alaska Public Health Association Summit’s annual poster session. Their projects spanned topics ranging from food security to environmental contamination, contributing valuable insights that help shape the evolving conversation around Alaska’s public health landscape.
Master of Nursing Education and Leadership student Wendy DeGraffenried reflects on her educational and professional journey. As a school nurse and adjunct instructor, Wendy found her passion in mentoring other nursing professionals – something that she hopes to carry forward with her as she starts a new chapter.
Elaina Mack, a senior kinesiology major from King Cove, broke school records with 10 successful three-point shots in the Seawolves game against Northwest U. Mack scored a total of 41 points over the course of the game.
On September 27, the women’s volleyball team invited faculty to join them on the court for Faculty & Staff Appreciation Night. Among the honorees were four standout educators from the College of Health, each nominated by students.
