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Health offices are increasingly complex, driven by technology and requiring strong administrators at the helm. As a student in this program, you will learn medical terminology and have a general understanding of anatomy and physiology. You will understand procedures required to operate a health care office and will be able to transcribe a wide range of health-related data. You will understand the latest hospital information systems and know how to use them. You will learn from professionals who are current in their field and will have the opportunity to enhance your resumé with real-life work experience.
This compressed program is delivered in four consecutive semesters, which means you are ready to graduate in only 16 months. Classes in this program are offered on three consecutive days each week.
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Year one domestic: $2,722 (CAD) Year one international: $13,852 (CAD)
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Classes in this program are offered in a compressed format on three consecutive days each week.
The Office Administration – Health Services program is available in both a two-year format and a compressed (four consecutive semesters) option.
Please note: Students who choose the compressed, fast-track option will not have a semester off/summer break.
This program is designed to develop the skills required to perform administrative support in a wide variety of health care environments. Students will gain a practical understanding and knowledge on topics including:
With the health care field constantly changing and computers bringing new concepts and approaches to office procedures, you will receive training in computerized medical records systems, computerized Ontario Health Insurance Plan billing systems, and other office equipment technology applications. This program will help you become a skilled and specialized professional that is comfortable with the latest technology and able to compete effectively in the workplace.
Please note: You will be required to achieve a keyboarding speed of 45 net words per minute to graduate.
Upon successful completion of the first two semesters for the compressed, fast-track option you may elect to finish your studies and graduate with a one year Ontario college certificate in Office Administration. Please make arrangements through Strategic Enrolment Services. Graduates with an average of 75 per cent or higher may use that qualification toward their Canadian Medical Secretary designation with the Ontario Medical Secretaries Association.
Students will be provided various Microsoft Office user specialist (MOS) certification opportunities.
You can increase your marketability by leveraging the learning built directly into the program to help you obtain the following additional credentials:
First-year students enrolled in a diploma program or select graduate certificate program through the School of Business, IT & Management will receive a membership to all eight of Durham Region’s Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade for the duration of their studies, plus an additional year following graduation. As one of the only colleges in Ontario with this offering, DC is proud to provide students access to local businesses at a regional level.
The eight Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade include:
Membership benefits:
The courses listed below are for incoming students. If you are a current student, please refer to your program of study for the year you began your program. Your program of study can be found on MyDC.
Courses and course descriptions are subject to change. Please note that as a result of COVID-19 the 2022-23 program of study may be modified to accommodate program delivery changes.
Your learning experience will be complemented by a workplace field placement component in a health care office or hospital environment which will provide you with practical, hands-on experience and the opportunity to apply the theories and concepts learned in the Office Administration – Health Services program.
To be eligible for the field placement component of this program you must (at your expense) provide:
In order to maintain confidentiality and security, the program utilizes an independent provider, Verified by Synergy Gateway for field placement documentation collection and validation. This process is the Electronic Student Permit Checking (ESPC). There is a cost associated with this external agency of $50.50. Please refer to the Office Administration – Health Services Fast Track Program ESPC Information Package for details.
Durham College also offers degree completion opportunities with a number of Canadian and international institutions. Sample diploma-to-degree opportunities include:
*Mac Computers
NOTE: Some required software applications are not available for MAC OS or Chromebook. Please ensure that you have access to a PC.
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