FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WHATCOM COMMUNITY COLLEGE MEDICAL ASSISTING PROGRAM RECEIVES ACCREDITATION AND COMMENDATIONS THROUGH 2034

 Bellingham, Washington, April 23, 2025 – The Whatcom Community College (WCC) Medical Assisting (MA) program has received continuing accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The CAAHEP decision was based upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB).

WCC’s review found no areas of non-compliance and the program was commended for multiple strengths which Photo: Whatcom Community College Medical Assisting Faculty Karen Piette pictured in a lab classroom. included: having exemplary administrators, faculty and staff who support students at multiple levels; recognition that the program is responsive to student needs and provides updated equipment and supplies; and that the College provides student resources such as quiet study areas, tutoring and testing support.

Dean of Healthcare Professions and STEM, Elizabeth Johnson said, “It always is validating to have an external accrediting body confirm what we here at Whatcom already know. That our exceptionally talented and dedicated faculty are the cornerstone of our institution. Our medical assisting faculty are 100% dedicated to their students, no matter circumstance. To have the program commended for faculty excellence at such an elite level truly is an honor and one that is well deserved.”

Benefits of accreditation include improved employability of students who attended an accredited program, and it gives students a level of pride at attending an accredited program

Photo: Whatcom Community College Medical Assisting faculty Karen Piette pictured in a lab classroom.

Photo: A group of Whatcom Community College Medical Assistant students in a lab.

Photo: Two of Whatcom Community Photo: College Medical Assistant students in a lab

Photo: Three Whatcom Community College Medical Assistant students in a lab drawing blood on a simulation lab hand.

Photo: Two Whatcom Community College Medical Assisting students in the hallway of the Health Professions Education Center building.

Learn more about WCC’s Medical Assisting program.

About Whatcom: Whatcom Community College (WCC) in Bellingham, Washington is regularly recognized as one of the top community colleges in the nation for student outcomes. The College, a destination for cybersecurity, healthcare and business studies, offers three bachelor of applied science degrees, transfer degrees, career and workforce preparation, online courses, and community education classes. New high school graduates, laid-off workers, seasoned employees, future university students—all students count on WCC to support their academic and career goals. For more information, visit www.whatcom.edu.

Media Contact & Public Information Officer: Marni Saling Mayer, PIO, and Director of Communication & Marketing,  msmayer@whatcom.edu, Phone: 360.383.3312.