Program Requirements

In order to apply for the program, the following items (1 through 7) should be on file in the Program Director's office. Items may be sent to Kara Mahannah, College of Southern Idaho, P.O. Box 1238, Twin Falls, Idaho 83303-1238, or they may be taken to her office, Room 170 in the Aspen Building.

1. The deadline for application is August 1.
2. Most recent transcript (college, high school, or G.E.D., may be unofficial)
3. COMPASS pretest. Your scores must indicate the ability to be placed in Math 123 and English 101.
4. Keyboarding pretest (GRM - TESTING CENTER). You must key at approximately 35 nwpm.
5. Resume and cover letter (letter of intent to apply for the program) to be sent to Kara Mahannah, Program Director, College of Southern Idaho, P.O. Box 1238, Twin Falls, Idaho 83303-1238)
6. Two letters of recommendation from employers, co-workers, previous employers or teachers should be sent to Kara Mahannah at the same address listed above.  The format for the letters of recommendation is listed below.
7. Must provide proof of completion/competency in 2007 Microsoft Word and Excel (these can be tested at the testing center located in the Meyerhoffer Building. Must successfully pass with 70% or better).
8. Interview with Medical Assistant Advisory Board scheduled by the program director. Students are selected on a point system. In the event that there are more applicants than seats available, the applicants having the highest points will be admitted.
9. Students placed in the program must have hepatitis B vaccination and tuberculin screening after placement in the program. They must also present evidence of good health with a statement from a physician or nurse practitioner and have an updated tetanus booster. The second hepatitis B vaccination in a series of three must be taken prior to working with blood and body fluids. A tetanus booster is also recommended. A current First Aid and CPR certification is a co-requisite of the program.
10. Acceptance to the college does not guarantee placement in the program.
11. Upon placement in the program, a drug screen and background check is required.

Letter of Recommendation

Recommended Format for Application to the Medical Assistant Program

1. Letters of recommendation should be written by someone who will address your professional skills such as skills, abilities, work ethic, dependability, motivation, and attitude. These are suggested topics; the writer may wish to address other areas.
2. The letters of recommendation will become part of your file, which will be reviewed by the Medical Assistant Advisory Board prior to your interview with the board.
3. Letters should be addressed to Kara Mahannah, College of Southern Idaho, PO Box 1238, Twin Falls, ID 83303-1238.
4. Experience has shown that people are usually happy to write letters of recommendation; however, they are sometimes slow to mail them. Therefore, you should follow-up shortly after you have contacted your references to make sure the letter has been mailed.