Trouble deciding between a community college or vocational school?

I'm interested in being a Medical Assistant. I'm frustrated with the community college because they only offer an associates degree- not necessary for working as a CMA. I found a for-profit vocational school that offers a diploma in the course.

CMAs don't make much money at all. I feel that taking a degree program would waste time. There may be a waiting list for the community college's program. However the community college has 100% job placement. I became a CNA through the community college, so I'm familiar with it.

Here is the community college website:

http://www.gtcc.edu/academic/health/medi...

My concerns with the vocational school are that it will be expensive. (The cost is NOT listed on their site) Also that training ill not be as good. However I know it will be quicker.

Here is the vocational school's website:

http://www.brookstone.edu/medical_tech.h...

Any suggestions or advice?

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Honestly, I would go for the community college. Private technical schools typically do not have much of a need based college scholarship fund, so you could have a lot in student loans once you have completed the diploma. Another thing to consider is if you already have a diploma for the CNA training that you might not even get the Pell Grant because the Pell Grant only covers one item at each level. Unless you have an employer with a generous tuition reimbursement program, your best choice is the community college even though it takes longer.

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I went to a Vocational School for their Medical Office Assistant course which was said to be the "fast track" to a career. What a joke!!! The staff is unqualified and they rush you through lessons because you're supposed to graduate in 1 year or less. I never even learned how to take blood pressure!! The Vocational schools are privately owned franchises and as such, they can make their own rules and charge what they like. You'd be surprised how much cheaper you can take the courses for at a community college. Also, when you go and apply for jobs after, they look at your vocational degree/certificate and laugh! Employers have told me that that degree is the equivalent of a piece of trash. I should have saved my $11,000 and gone to community college. I had to learn the hard way and now i'm stuck working a dead end job to make loan payments!
I'm not sure about schools in NC but, in OK your professors or instructor has to be at least an RN. I didn't notice at Brookstone but at gtcc the instructor didn't have anything behind her name. Which tells me she is not an RN.

Also, why don't you look at becoming an LVN/LPN it should take that same amount of time and you will make more money. Then, once your an LPN you can go on to become an RN. This way you will always have a job plus make money!

GOOD LUCK

RMouser CM,BA
There are some excellent vocational schools out there. The advantage of a vocational school is you are not required to take as many general ed courses as you would be at a community college. Having to take a history class does not help you as a medical assistant. The other advantage is because you are in school for less time you increase your earning power more quickly.

So if it takes you 3 years at a community college during those 3 years you would make minimum wage or a little more. If you completed your MA program in less than a year, you have an extra 2 years of your life that has a greater earning potential which offsets the cost of the school.

Find a accedited college. I looked at the Brookstone website and it is poor. Find one that has a catalog posted on line and you will be able to compare the costs and program outline (hours, what degree you would leave with, etc.).

Here is the accediation link:

http://www.caahep.org/Find_An_Accredited...

I find it hard to believe that the community college has 100% placement. No school can have 100% placement. Some students change their mind, get pregant therefore don't work, or interview poorly.

I am not against community colleges and for many it is the right way to go. Just giving some pro's to the vocational school for your desired employement.

Another thing you need to find out about a school is how many of the students pass the CMA exam on the first attempt. That will tell you a lot about the quality of the education a student receives.

Many employers prefer MA students from a vocational school because they stay more up to date on what is happening in the field.