Medical Office Assistant

Associate Certificate Part-time School of Business + Media

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Overview

The part-time Medical Office Assistant Associate Certificate provides practical, relevant knowledge in healthcare and office settings, preparing you for a career in the field. With a practicum for hands-on experience, the program covers essential areas such as anatomy, medical documentation, billing, clinical procedures, transcription, and more.

Medical Office Assistants work as administrators in the health care sector, helping to make the entire office run smoothly. They possess strong client-service skills, as well as excellent organization and communication skills. This program is designed to give you applied, relevant knowledge about health care and the office setting to prepare you for work in the field. The Medical Office Assistant Associate Certificate includes a practicum to gain real-work experience and is one of BCIT’s more popular programs, with classes filling up quickly.

About the program

Employers value BCIT’s applied, job-ready approach to education and training. It’s the BCIT advantage that sets our graduates apart from the pack. Our courses are taught by knowledgeable and experienced instructors who are industry professionals.

Build a solid foundation in medical office administration
All courses are offered online
Hands-on industry practicum provides you with valuable experience and contacts
Graduate 100% ready to start your career

Learn more about how this program prepares you for a new career as a Medical Office Assistant on the Program Details page.

Who should complete the Medical Office Assistant Associate Certificate?

This program might be for you if:

You enjoy working with people
You have excellent organizational and communication skills
You’re interested in health care and the medical field

Classes fill quickly for this popular program, so be aware of the key registration dates. (updated each term). Then visit the Entrance Requirements page to declare your program.

What grads can do

With the job-focused training you receive at BCIT, you will be completely prepared for work in medical offices from the day you graduate. You will have many options as employers are always seeking qualified applicants in several workplace settings, including walk-in clinics, family practices, specialist offices, hospitals, and more.

Find out more about the new job opportunities awaiting you on the Graduating and Jobs page.

If you are looking for a program that is more focussed on administrative duties in hospitals and healthcare facilities, as part of a healthcare team, consider the Healthcare Unit Clerk Associate Certificate.

Entrance Requirements

About Flexible Learning

Part-time courses are offered in various scheduling formats, including at night or on weekends, flexible daytime delivery, or you can opt for distance or online learning. If you meet the prerequisites and there’s space available, you can register for a course immediately. Courses are offered in each of three terms: Fall (September), Winter (January), and Spring/Summer (April).

Application processing

This program is open to declarations beginning:

February 1st* for the January intake
May 1st* for the April intake
October 1st* for the September intake

*or next business day

Entrance requirements

Notice to applicants: As part of our ongoing commitment to ensure students are best prepared for their studies, Flexible Learning programs will be adopting English Language Proficiency standards (Categories 1, 2, and 3) as part of their declaration requirements effective April 2025.

Declarations submitted for program intakes beginning April 1, 2025 or later will be evaluated using the English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirement below.

English language proficiency: Category 2 – English Studies 12 (67%) or equivalent

Recommended for success

Minimum starting keyboard speed of 35 words per minute. Please note that some practicum and employment positions require keyboarding speeds of up to 55 words per minute.

English as an additional language students are recommended to take COMM 1106 – Introduction to Business and Technical Communication (With Language Development Component)

International applicants

This program is available to international applicants who will complete the program from outside Canada or who currently have a valid status in Canada other than study permit.

Study permit: International applicants accepted into this program are not eligible for a study permit.

Program declaration

Declaring your Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) program ensures that BCIT is aware of your intent to complete a program as it is currently outlined and provides you the opportunity to apply for transfer credit.

To submit your declaration:

Answer all questions completely.
If required, convert transcripts and documents to PDF files.
Have a credit card ready to pay the application fee.

Declare Now

Upon approval, a program plan letter will be sent to you confirming your program of study. Please allow approximately eight weeks for processing.

Learn more about program declaration

Scheduled Intakes

Ongoing Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) intakes: January, April, and September.

Costs & Supplies

Tuition fees

Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) tuition is charged on a course-by-course basis. Please see the Flexible Learning Tuition & Fees page for more information on domestic and international tuitions.

Courses

Important updates to Flexible Learning

English Requirement: Find out more.

Prepare for a rewarding career as a Medical Office Assistant. The courses in this program provide you with the essential skills to take on the everyday challenges and administrative responsibilities of medical offices. Your studies include medical billing practices, electronic medical records, anatomy and terminology, and transcription skills, among other topics. The program culminates with a practicum that provides you with hands-on training and real-world exposure to the day-to-day work environment of a Medical Office Assistant.

Please check the Program Details page for important information for students approaching the end of the program, and preparing for the MOA practicum.

Please note: part-time programs and courses are open enrolment and although we make every effort to accommodate demand, course registration cannot be guaranteed in every semester. High demand courses fill quickly and may result in students unable to register for a course that semester. Courses may also be cancelled due to low enrolment.

Program matrix

Check current availability of courses for this program.

1. Required Courses			Credits
	BSYS 1001	Business Information Systems 1-Microsoft 365 for Windows Computers and information technology are the foundation of business today and an essential tool in the current labour market. This course provides a deep understanding of computer terminology, operating systems, and the most popular software applications used in business. The course discusses up to date technology issues and challenges that affect and impact the business environment. At the end of the course students will become proficient on Microsoft Office applications; specifically, in MS Word, MS Excel, and MS Power Point. Students work individually on projects in lab settings and complete a number of individual projects and quizzes /exams. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	OFFC 1001	Anatomy and Terminology 1 This course combines anatomy and physiology with medical terminology. You will learn about the digestive, urinary, reproductive, nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. For each system, we will discuss the organs, the functions of each component, common disease processes and symptoms, and anatomical terminology. You will learn common prefixes, suffixes, and terminology related to disease processes of specific body systems. Anatomy and Terminology 1 will cover approximately 50% of the body systems and Anatomy and Terminology 2 will cover the other 50%. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	OFFC 1007	Medical Billing Practices In this course, you will explore the Wolf billing software system, including data entry for both manual and computer billing to the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of British Columbia. We will address billing for visits, supplementary items, and diagnostic procedures carried out in a medical office, a hospital, or home. It is essential that you learn how to accurately process claims and forms related to alternate billing such as what is needed for WorkSafeBC, the Insurance Corporation of BC, reciprocal procedures, and private companies. Emphasis is placed on the Preamble, Fee, and Diagnostic Code Schedule from MSP of BC. You will create a computerized medical clinic, register new doctors, new patients, and newborns. You will generate an electronic appointment schedule with appointment codes and computer reports through to the completion of accurate billing records. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	OFFC 1008	Medical Documentation This course teaches you how to create professional medical documents. There is an emphasis on letter formatting and accuracy. You will be introduced to ergonomics, transcribing rules, and medical abbreviations in preparation for medical transcription. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	1.5
	OFFC 1015	Medical Office Practices This course will prepare you with the basic knowledge needed in medical office administration and procedures, and professional conduct. You will develop skills in appointment scheduling, reception and communication skills, filing, referrals, and pharmacology. There will be information regarding the inventory and supplies used in a medical office. There will be discussions related to patient rights and the allied health professionals. You will be presented with a variety of medical abbreviations and be introduced to using the BC medical directory. We will cover E-Comm (911), non-emergency health advice (811), and (711). There will be information provided about the Regional Health Authorities, First Nations Health Authority, Provincial Health Services Authority, and agencies that operate under those authorities. Through office scenarios, you will apply problem solving, critical thinking, decision making, and conflict resolution skills. Role playing will help you develop the confidence needed for dealing with patient concerns related to the duties of a medical office assistant. Prerequisite(s): 65% in OFFC 1001 course outline	3.0
	OFFC 1045	Clinical Procedures In this course, you will be presented with the clinical procedures and tests commonly performed in medical settings. You will be taught relevant theory about clinical procedures. You will develop a beginning competency in selected clinical skills. You will gain knowledge of the basic instruments, equipment, and supplies used in medical settings. This course will help you develop the skills to assist physicians, and prepare patients for tests and examinations. You will practice setting up an examination room with the appropriate equipment and supplies for examinations. You will learn the correct procedure for sterilization techniques and properly disposing of bio-hazardous materials. Prerequisite(s): 65% in OFFC 1001 course outline	3.0
	OFFC 1048	Medical Transcription Skills This course introduces you to the words and phrases of medical practice with the assistance of a software program. Medical terms that you previously studied will relate to those heard with the software. Through this course, you will develop entry-level transcription skills for transcribing dictated materials in an accurate and complete manner, following the proper documenting requirements used in areas of the medical field. This course is also designed for medical office personnel wishing to upgrade their medical transcription skills. Prerequisite(s): 65% in OFFC 1001 course outline	2.0
	OFFC 1055	Electronic Medical Records With many physicians converting their practices over to electronic medical records, the Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) Management course enables the student to explore all aspects of EMR software using Wolf Medical Systems. The student will implement, use and become familiar with EMRs. Through lectures, exercises and hands-on practical experience, both from an administrative and clinical perspective, the student will navigate EMRs and manage the input and retrieval of electronic data. This course is a required component of the MOA program, however it may be taken on its own by former MOA graduates and other interested healthcare workers. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	OFFC 2001	Anatomy and Terminology 2 In this course, you will learn about the basic anatomy and physiology of the human body and the associated medical terminology. Based on the foundation gained from Anatomy and Terminology 1, you will build and define more medical terms and use more medical abbreviations. You will gain knowledge of the blood, lymphatic, musculoskeletal, skin, sensory, and endocrine systems. There will also be an emphasis on pathology, diagnostic testing, and clinical procedures. Successful completion of this course will prepare you for 1048 Medical Transcription Skills. Prerequisite(s): 65% in OFFC 1001 course outline	3.0
and
	BUSA 3105	Leadership 1 - People Skills A dynamic course for new or aspiring supervisors. Students develop strong interpersonal skills and increase their awareness of the importance of people skills in today's organizations. Students develop critical core inter-personal skills along with individual performance through group interactions, role playing, lectures and practice sessions. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0
	or
	ORGB 2505	Interpersonal Skills Develops personal problem-solving skills, with emphasis on role playing, teamwork and analysis by students acting in a variety of supervisory/management situations. Participant have the opportunity to practice skills that will enhance their effectiveness in working with people. These skills include effective listening, assertive communication and conflict resolution. Upon completion of the course, students should have a clear appreciation of the interpersonal skills required for effective supervision and management. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	3.0

2. Practicum			Credits
	OFFC 2018	MOA Practicum The eighty-hour practicum, which takes place in either a physician's office, clinic, hospital department, or related health-care facility, enables you to apply the skills that you have learned in the BCIT program. For many, this experience is their gateway into the health-care system. Some keys to a successful practicum experience include having excellent communication skills, having compassion for patients, maintaining confidentiality, having a keen eye for detail, and being fluent in computer software. The course also includes class time to help you prepare for a successful workplace experience. You will write a resume and cover letter matched to a medical office assistant (MOA) position, create and post your profile and resume on a social media site, and prepare for and practice interview skills. After the practicum, you will create and deliver a presentation that describes your practicum experience. You will need to complete the following before the start date: current certification of the two-day St. John's Ambulance Standard First Aid for Industry – WorkSafeBC Level 1 Equivalent course, which includes CPR level C and the AED content; a criminal record check; up-to-date immunizations. Failure to provide all the required documents before the course start date will result in you being dropped from the practicum. A minimum keyboarding speed of up to 55 words per minute; and/or successful completion of a terminology test. Note: Since first aid certifications expire, we recommend that you complete the above First Aid course shortly before the OFFC 2018 Practicum. If the certification is recent, then you will still have the certification after you graduate when you are looking for a job. Prerequisite(s): (BUSA 3105 or ORGB 2505) and BSYS 1001 and OFFC 1001 and OFFC 1007 and OFFC 1008 and OFFC 1015 and OFFC 1045 and OFFC 1048 and OFFC 1055 and OFFC 2001 course outline	3.5

Total Credits:			31.0

Check current availability of courses for this program.

Transfer credit

Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.

Program Details

In the Medical Office Assistant Associate Certificate program, you will take courses carefully designed to provide you with the skills and resources necessary to be successfully employed in a variety of roles in health care. This popular program works around your schedule by offering classes on weekday evenings and occasionally on weekends.

Courses in the program cover:

anatomy and terminology,
medical documentation,
medical billing,
clinical procedures,
transcription, and more.

By developing the key skills for a range of tasks, you’ll be prepared for responsibilities that can arise in any medical office, and therefore broadening your appeal to potential employers.

You’ll also participate in an 80-hour practicum to gain practical, hands-on work experience in a medical office setting.

Important practicum information!

Register for the practicum as early as possible to allow time for you to meet the following requirements before you begin your practicum:

Up-to-date immunizations are required
A criminal record check must be obtained
The St. John’s Ambulance two-day Standard First Aid for Industry course OFA level 1 must be completed.

Failure to provide all the required documents before the course start date will result in you being dropped from the practicum.

If you are currently employed as a Medical Office Assistant, with permission of the Instructor, you may be able to complete the practicum at your workplace.

Program goals

Upon successful completion of the Medical Office Assistant Associate Certificate, you will be able to:

Perform medical office tasks, including scheduling appointments, and documenting and maintaining medical records, while maintaining confidentiality, managing time effectively, showing professionalism and being ethical.
Assist physicians and prepare patients for examinations, clinical procedures, and tests.
Manage the input and retrieval of data using electronic medical record software.
Prepare bills for visits, supplementary items, and diagnostic procedures carried out in a medical office, a hospital, or home as dictated by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of British Columbia.
Create professional medical documents, letters, and emails that are respectful to the recipients and contain proper paragraphs, proper sentence structure, correctly spelled words and abbreviations, and correct grammar.
Transcribe medical dictation in the correct format for medical letters, chart notes, history and physical reports, discharge summaries, operative and pathology reports, and miscellaneous medical reports.
Apply critical thinking and problem solving techniques to resolve issues that can be found in a medical office.
Demonstrate effective communication, interpersonal, and team skills in all work duties, where communication skills require clear spoken and written English, correct medical terminology, accurate spelling, and correct grammar.
Demonstrate fluid computer literacy in Microsoft Office software.
Name the organs, define the medical terminology, and describe the functions, the common disease processes, and symptoms that are associated with major body systems.

Grading

Courses are graded on a percentage scale. The minimum passing grade for all OFFC courses is 65%.

Program delivery

Online: This program is delivered fully online.

This program is offered on a course-by-course basis, allowing you the flexibility to choose the number of courses taken each term.

Program location

Courses are offered through online learning.

Graduating & Jobs

By developing the essential skills needed for a variety of jobs in medical offices, you will prepare for a successful, rewarding career. The courses, training, and hands-on practicum in the Medical Office Assistant Associate Certificate program all combine to give you the real-world, relevant skills and confidence you need to begin your future.

Some job opportunities include:

Medical Office Assistant
Medical Clerk
Medical Receptionist
Medical Record Specialist (EMR)
Medical Billing Specialist

Additional Business Programs

Graduates of the Medical Office Assistant program that want to go on to further develop their business skills and knowledge may consider the following part-time programs:

Graduate employment outcomes

The BCIT student outcomes report presents summary findings from the annual survey of former students administered by BC Stats one to two years after graduation. These reports combine the last three years of available results for the 2021-2023 BCIT Outcomes Surveys of 2020-2022 graduates and for Degree 2019-2021 graduates. The reports are organized into three-page summaries containing information on graduates’ labour market experiences and opinions regarding their education. More detailed information can be accessed at the BC Student Outcomes website.

To view these results, you may need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in your Web browser.

Medical Office Assistant

Apply for graduation

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, complete an Application for BCIT Credential [PDF] and submit it to Student Information and Enrolment Services.

Allow approximately six to eight weeks for processing.

All financial obligations to the Institute must be met prior to issuance of any credential.

Faculty, Advisors & Staff

Our instructors are active industry professionals who provide current and first-hand knowledge in their areas of expertise. The material covered in the classroom directly relates to work that you will be performing in your future careers. This hands-on training with industry level tools and resources, as well as industry practicum, prepares you for a rewarding position as a Medical Office Assistant.

Contact Us

Thomas Turniawan
Program Head
604-432-8609 | sobm-moa@bcit.ca

Contact a Flexible Learning Program Advisor with the BCIT program name in the subject line if you have a question about:

Course selection and program planning
Declaring your program
Making changes to your approved program plan
Applying for transfer credit and advanced placement
Laddering options
Job placement and graduate outcomes
Student life

Questions or comments?

Programs and courses are subject to change without notice.