Skip to content

FAQs About Our Medical Training Programs in PA and NJ

Nursing students smile as they listen to their instructor.

Want to learn more about the medical training programs available at Prism Career Institute? Get the answers to our frequently asked questions below. With campuses in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Prism Career Institute offers a medical assistant program and a practical nursing program.

How Long Does the Medical Assistant Program Take To Complete?

Students can complete the medical assistant program in as little as 10 months. This includes:

  • 425 lecture hours
  • 135 laboratory hours
  • 160 externship hours

Does the Medical Assistant Program Lead to Certification?

Students may earn certification by taking the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). There is a fee to take the exam. Prism Career Institute will cover the exam fee after a student completes their medical assistant externship. Prism Career Institute also provides study resources to help students prepare for the exam.

How Long Does the Nursing Program Take To Complete?

The practical nursing program spans 1,560 clock hours. Daytime and evening courses are available. The program can be completed in approximately 63 weeks for day class students, or 70 weeks for weekend/evening students.

Does the Nursing Program Lead to Certification?

Upon successful completion of the practical nursing program, graduates may be eligible to apply to the Pennsylvania or New Jersey State Board of Nursing to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN).

How Do I Enroll?

Prospective students can apply online. An admissions representative will then contact you to learn more about your educational goals.

To be considered for admission, applicants must:

  • Be 18 years of age or older
  • Complete an admissions interview with an Admissions Representative
  • Achieve a passing score on required entrance exams
  • Provide a copy of their high school diploma or GED (high school equivalency) certificate from an institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education

Does Prism Career Institute Offer Financial Aid?

Yes, financial aid is available to students who qualify. Prism Career Institute’s Financial Aid department can help students apply for grant and loan programs, including:

  • Pell Grants
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)
  • Federal Parent Plus Loans
  • Subsidized federal direct loans
  • Unsubsidized federal direct loans
  • Veterans’ educational benefits

Does Prism Career Institute Assist With Job Placement?

Yes. While we cannot guarantee job placement, our Career Services Department works with each student to help them find a fulfilling career after graduation. The dedicated Career Services team can assist you with:

  • Creating cover letters and resumes
  • Preparing for job interviews
  • Building networking skills
  • Identifying job opportunities
  • Interview and job application referrals through our employer network

Prism Career Institute has an extensive network of employer contacts and regularly shares employment and interview opportunities with students.

What Are the Job Prospects After Training?

Medical assistants and PNs work in a wide variety of medical settings, from large hospital systems to small family practices. Students may find job opportunities in:

  • Medical clinics
  • Laboratories
  • Hospitals
  • Outpatient care centers
  • Nursing homes
  • Pediatric offices
  • Government agencies
  • OB/GYN practices
  • Family medicine practices

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for medical assistants is expected to grow from 2022 to 2032, translating to over 114,600 job openings on average each year. Practical nurses (PNs) can anticipate a strong occupational outlook, as well. The BLS anticipates more than 54,000 job openings on average for practical and vocational nurses each year until 2032.

Is Prism Career Institute Accredited?

Yes, Prism Career Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET).

Our PA campus is licensed by the PA State Board of Private Licensed Schools, and our NJ locations are licensed by the NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

The practical nursing program offered at our NJ locations is also approved by the NJ State Board of Nursing. The practical nursing program prepares students to take the PN licensing exam after graduation.

Learn More About Prism Career Institute

If you are passionate about healthcare and want to pursue a career in a growing field, consider the practical nursing or medical assistant programs at Prism Career Institute. Students receive comprehensive training from experienced instructors, along with hands-on learning opportunities through externships for the medical assistant program. Prism Career Institute has campuses in:

  • Cherry Hill, NJ
  • West Atlantic City, NJ
  • Philadelphia, PA

To get in touch with an admissions representative, contact us today.