High School Regional Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Clinical Healthcare: Medical Assistant

Clinical Healthcare: Medical Assistant

The Clinical Healthcare programs empower students to explore, innovate, and lead in the field of healthcare. Grounded in equity, rigor, and real‑world relevance, the program cultivates curiosity, critical thinking, and compassion by integrating advanced coursework with experiential learning. Preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals requires strong academic foundations in science and medicine, as well as an ethic of service, cultural competency, and a commitment to improving community health outcomes.

Through partnerships with hospitals, universities, and industry organizations, the program offers students clear pathways to college, careers, and lifelong learning while addressing the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals. Designed for students interested in working directly with patients, this pathway provides hands‑on preparation for careers in direct patient care. Students progress through integrated science coursework and clinical training, leading to industry‑recognized credentials as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA). Work‑based learning experiences, internships, and partnerships with local hospitals and nursing facilities ensure authentic exposure to healthcare settings.

Core Experiences

Participation in Future Health Professions (HOSA) activities, conferences and competitions
Hospital and nursing home volunteering,
Earning industry certification
Lunch and learns
Medical science field trips
Medical professions mentors and guest speakers
Career advising and exploration

Program Goals

Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills
Equip students with a strong academic foundation in healthcare practices through rigorous, standards-based coursework.
Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience
Engage students in experiential learning through labs, simulations, clinical exposure/internships, and industry partnerships to build practical skills and career readiness.
Foster Career and College, Career and/or Community Pathways
Support students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and/or careers in healthcare by offering certifications, dual enrollment opportunities, and mentorship from industry professionals.

Application and Locations

Selection Process: Interest-based application

Schools:

Region 1: Einstein
Region 2: Paint Branch
Region 3: Kennedy
Region 4: Rockville
Region 5: Quince Orchard

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Certified Clinical Medical Professional (CCMA) Program. Cells in green are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

Grades 6–8	Grade 9	Grade 10	Grade 11	Grade 12
Career Advising and claiming of RIASEC themes. Career Exploration Summer Enrichment & Preparation
	Honors Biology with integrated Foundations of Medicine and Structures	Science	Science	Work-based Learning, Dual Enrollment or AP/Advanced Level Biology Course
	Technology Credit	Certified Clinical Medical Assistant 1	Certified Clinical Medical Assistant 2	Certified Clinical Medical Assistant 3
	World Language	World Language	World Language or General Elective	World Language or General Elective
	U.S. History	NSL Government	World History	Elective
	English	English	English	English
	Integrated Algebra 1 or higher	Secondary Math Course	Secondary Math Course	Secondary Math Course
	Elective (PE or Fine Arts)	Elective (PE, Fine Arts or Health)	Elective (PE, Fine Arts or Health)	Elective

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, students mustcomplete the following to remain enrolled in the Certified Clinical Medical Professional (CCMA) Program and earn the related certificate:

1 credit Honors Biology with integrated foundations of medicine
3 Credits CCMA (1, 2 & 3)
1 credit related dual enrollment, work based learning or AP/advanced level Biology course