Gadsden State Community College, a historically Black institution in Alabama, has launched a new medical assistant program. Susan Thrasher has been selected to serve as the program’s inaugural director.
The new academic program consists of five semesters of study. Once the curriculum and experiential learning training requirements are completed, students can take a certification test from the National Board for Medical Assisting of the American Association of Medical Assistants. Students who receive official certification can pursue careers in a multitude of healthcare settings including physicians’ offices, clinics, laboratories, hospitals, nursing homes, and urgent care facilities.
“We are providing hands-on training, modern facilities, and comprehensive coursework to equip students with the skills necessary for a successful career in medical assistance,” said Dr. Thrasher. “It’s going to be incredible for the students who earn a degree at Gadsden State. The degree will empower them. It will empower the community. Knowledge empowers people.”
The medical assistant program has begun enrolling students for the 2024-2025 academic year. The program will accept up to 15 students for its first cohort starting on August 19.