Save Time And $: Earn Your Medical Office Administration (MOA) Degree

Education & Development Articles

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more healthcare related type jobs will be created in the next decade than any other type. Someone needs to manage all these new positions, right? 

If you're considering switching careers or deciding what skills you need to succeed in the future, you may want to consider earning a degree in medical office administration (MOA). MOA degrees give you the training and certification you need to secure a managerial position in the economy's fastest growing labor sector. 

Here's a quick guide to help you earn your MOA degree and certification for less time and money: 

What do need before you start?

To pursue an MOA you need to have a high school diploma or a GED. Additionally, most programs require college-level English and Mathematics credits or a test score that demonstrates your reading, writing, and math proficiency. It is important to note that a career in MOA requires you to apply reading, writing, and mathematics skills on a daily basis. In addition to these skills, students must have proficient typing and computer literacy skills to succeed as a MOA.

What do you need to earn your degree?

No two schools have the same MOA degree program. Before enrolling in a college it is critical that you understand exactly the courses, tests, and internship programs you will need to pass to earn your degree.To lure students to their MOA programs, some institutions offer alarmingly speedy programs. Although some students might finish an MOA degree in the fastest advertised time, you might take much longer to finish.

Because ALL MOA positions require a degree and certification, here's a rundown of the types of classes, tests, and internships you'll need to become an MOA.

• Coursework - Biology, medical terminology, record-keeping, accounting, and insurance policy. 
• Tests - Certified Medical Administration Assistant Test (CMMA). Never enroll in a school that is not Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) approved.
• Internship (externship) - to earn your degree and certification, you will need to intern at an off campus medical facility, which is why it's often referred to as an externship.

What do you can you do to save time and money earning your MOA degree?

• First, make sure MOA is right for you. Few things cost more time or money than a partially completed degree. Before enrolling in an MOA program, you should talk to an MOA. Most credible educational institutions will put you in touch with one of their graduates or discuss the pros and cons of an MOA degree with a faculty member. 
• Second, look for programs that offer paid externship opportunities. Some degree programs offer unpaid or "tuition-sponsored" externship programs. These latter options mean that you will either be unpaid for the work you do during your internship or you will be forced to pay for the work you do.
• Third, look for a program that offers CMNA test preparation course and support. Although passing the CMNA test isn't necessary. Passing the test will earn you a stamp on your degree that will give a competitive and financial advantage over other MOA graduates. 
• Fourth, look for programs that offer job placement opportunities. Earning your degree, passing your test, and completing your externship programs won't be very valuable unless you're able to land an MOA position. A reputable MOA program will provide a list of potential employers both locally and nationally. Having both choices can be invaluable when you're searching for a job.

MOA is an exciting and growing career choice. These steps can help you succeed in this rapidly expanding field, while saving you time and money in the process, read more here. 

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18 December 2015