Medical Office Assistant
Become an in-demand medical office assistant or medical secretary through a comprehensive hybrid program, complete with a practicum work experience in a real healthcare setting.
Credential
Diploma
Program length
32–39 weeks
Location
Toronto
Delivery method
Hybrid (online/in-person)
Program load
Full-time
Start dates
Monthly Start Dates
Class time
Daytime / Evening
Five Steps to Success at OIHI
1
EXPERT GUIDANCE
Learn from industry professionals with years of experience in the classroom and in the field.
2
PRACTICAL, HANDS-ON TRAINING
Through class tutorials, activities and other hands-on learning, practise the most in-demand skills needed in the medical office assistant field.
3
CAREER SUPPORT
Get help landing a fulfilling job with the guidance of Career Services, who offer support with job searches, resumes, interviews and more.
4
PRACTICUM EXPERIENCE
Gain hands-on work experience in the medical field through a practicum opportunity at healthcare settings like clinics, doctor’s offices and hospitals.
5
START WORK FASTER
Our program can be completed in as little as 32 instructional weeks and includes comprehensive, practical curriculum to launch your career fast.
Why Start Now?
41,100
new job openings are expected in Canada by 2031 (jobbank.gc.ca).
$110 million
invested into primary care teams and facilities by the province of Ontario (Ontario.ca).
45%
increase in the demand for medical office assistants is expected by 2031 (jobbank.gc.ca).
How It Works
616 hours
of theory taught through a flexible online curriculum.
42 hours
of career development and preparation.
160 hours
of practicum in a clinical setting.
After Finishing This Program:
- Have the skills and knowledge to become a highly valued medical office assistant, medical secretary, or other healthcare administrative professional.
- Become an employee who’s in demand across Canada.
- Be prepared to positively impact both patients and healthcare providers alike.
Benefit from Practical, Hands-On Learning
Through a combination of classroom tutorials and activities and a practicum in a real clinical setting, you will have the opportunity to practise the most in-demand skills:
- Hone data management and computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
- Communicate professionally with patients about appointments, medical prescriptions and more.
- Coordinate with doctors and nurses on site to facilitate communication and care.
Career Outcomes
Upon graduation, you will be ready to take on positions such as:
- Medical office assistant
- Administrative assistant
- Medical secretary
- Ward secretary
- Medical office receptionist
Admission and Tuition
Admission Requirements
Academic requirements:
To be eligible for this Medical Office Assistant diploma program, you must:
- Have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent; or be at least 18 years of age or older and achieve a minimum score of 15 on Wonderlic SLE.
- Equivalent: foreign credentials must be translated in English and assessed for Grade 12 equivalency by a recognized organization such as WES (World Education Service).
*For information on admission requirements, practicum and placement components, please reach out to admissions@oihi.ca.
English Language Requirements
If English is not a student’s first language, they must provide proof of English competency.
This must be demonstrated through one of the following options:
- IELTS – International English Language Testing Services – Minimum average score of 5.5 with no band test score lower than 5.5
- Equivalent Recognized Official Proficiency Test (see Admissions Requirements page for more information)
- Proof of completion of secondary or post-secondary education in an English-speaking country where English is the primary language of instruction.
Tuition and Fees
| Fee Description* | Amount (CAD) |
| Total Tuition | $14,500 |
*Note that the fees shown on this page are (1) in Canadian dollars, (2), subject to change and (3) for Canadian permanent residents and citizens. International students may incur additional student fees, and the international student tuition fee may vary. Program-specific costs are not included in the tuition fees listed.
FAQs
What is the career outlook for medical office assistants?
Job openings for medical office assistants, medical administrative assistants and related job titles are expected to total 41,100 new jobs in Canada by 2031 (jobbank.gc.ca).
How long does it take to complete the program?
The program is 32 to 39 weeks long, depending on the intake/start date.
Does this program involve hands-on training?
Yes, students will practise their skills in class tutorials and activities, along with a practicum opportunity in a real healthcare setting.
Is a medical office assistant a good career?
Medical office assistants are in demand today, with job openings expected to continue rising (jobbank.gc.ca). This career also lets you make a difference in people’s lives by helping to ensure patients receive the care they need.
How do I become a medical office assistant in Ontario?
To become a medical office assistant in Ontario, completing a post-secondary program or specialized courses is typically required, along with the successful completion of secondary education (jobbank.gc.ca).
Curriculum
Career Development – MOA 211 – 42 hours
This course is designed to prepare students for a successful transition from academic training to a career in medical office administration. Topics covered include resume writing, interview preparation, job search strategies, professional networking and workplace etiquette. Through practical exercises, guest lectures and simulated work environments, students will build confidence and the skills necessary to excel in their careers. The course also emphasizes the importance of continuous professional development and staying updated with industry trends and technologies.
Communication – MOA 200 – 56 hours
This course is designed to equip students with the skills needed for effective communication in a post-secondary academic environment. The curriculum covers topics such as strategies for effective reading, critical analysis, summarizing and paraphrasing. Students will also explore the writing process in depth, learning to craft clear, coherent and persuasive written work. Through a blend of theoretical instruction and practical exercises, students will develop the ability to critically engage with texts and produce high-quality academic writing.
Computer Skills and Information Systems – MOA 202 – 56 hours
This course provides students with foundational skills in using computers and software in an office environment. Students will be introduced to the Windows operating system and the MS Office Suite, including MS Word, MS PowerPoint and MS Excel. The course also covers intermediate presentation- building and presenting skills.
Data Management Essentials – MOA 205 – 56 hours
This course introduces students to organizing and managing data within the healthcare sector. Students will learn about the nature of data, basic data organization mechanisms and how to view and manage data in healthcare settings. Additionally, students will explore various data sources and best practices within the scope of available data.
Emergency Care Management – MOA 210 – 56 hours
This course aims to inform students on emergency care practices in medical emergencies. Students will learn how to identify a medical emergency, follow best practices for administering aid, communicate effectively during emergencies, and understand protocols and emergency care systems. The course also covers documentation, the concept of responsibility of care and the procedures for follow-up after an incident.
Human Anatomy and Pharmacology – MOA 203 – 56 hours
This course offers students an intermediate understanding of human anatomy and medications. It explores the structure and processes of the human body, as well as the effects of medications. Students will learn how medications work, their classifications, administration methods and the level of care required when handling medical information.
Introduction to Healthcare in Canada – MOA 201 – 56 hours
The course aims to educate students on healthcare legislation and standards within healthcare practice. Students will learn about the code of ethics and health and safety guidelines as they adhere to the Occupational Health and Safety Act (1990), Personal Health Information Protection Act (2004), Freedom of Information, Protection of Privacy Act (1990), Public Hospitals Act (1990), Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005), and Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL), (2014).
Medical Documentation and Information Systems – MOA 208 – 56 hours
This course aims to provide students with knowledge on medical documentation and how to manage data with accuracy, sensitivity and confidentiality in mind. Students will learn about medical abbreviations as they relate to medical notes and transcription. They will also explore transcribing guidelines within a medical office setting, learning how to navigate medical information and apply sound judgment to manage patient data accurately, in accordance with established processes and protocols.
Medical Office Procedures – Clinical and Non-Clinical – MOA 207 – 56 hours
This course covers both clinical and non-clinical medical office procedures. Students will learn about common patient routines and procedures in a medical office setting, including appointment booking and verifying client information. In addition, students will gain knowledge of patient care, and a basic understanding of medical equipment, instruments and supplies.
Medical Office Systems and Practices – MOA 206 – 56 hours
The course provides students with an understanding of the systems used in medical office settings. Students will explore and differentiate between various medical office systems and the information represented within them. They will also learn about the sequencing and flow of information between and within medical office systems. In addition, the course covers entering medical information, scheduling, managing billing, processing medical claims and leading with best-practice frameworks as they relate to privacy and the release of information within provincial regulations.
Medical Terminology – MOA 204 – 56 hours
Students will learn the components of medical terminology, including how to analyze words by their roots, prefixes and suffixes. The course covers spelling, defining, pronouncing and applying medical terms related to specific body systems, as well as common disease terms, abbreviations, diagnostic tests and clinical procedures.
Medical Transcription – MOA 209 – 56 hours
This course teaches students how to read and interpret medical terminology within medical documentation. Students will develop intermediate skills in coding and de-coding medical notes and processes. They will also gain experience in transcription techniques, ensuring accurate and effective documentation. Additionally, the course includes an overview of basic emergency care management, teaching students on assessing emergencies, seeking help and understanding the roles of emergency responders.
Practicum – MOA 900 – 160 hours
The practicum offers students hands-on experience in a clinical setting, focusing on clinical office procedures, patient interaction and administrative tasks. Students will gain practical experience in taking phone calls, inputting patient information, booking and following up on appointments and coordinating with healthcare providers. They will also be managing medical claims, handling patient reception and ensuring the accuracy of medical documentation. This comprehensive training prepares students for efficient, patient-centered roles in health information management.
Please note that Ontario Institute of Health and Innovation reserves the right to modify the schedule of this program.
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