The University of Akron Wayne College Office of Continuing Education and Workforce Development (OCEWD) is offering a clinical medical assistant program to meet the increased demand for health care personnel.

This program will be taught on Tuesday and Thursday evenings beginning April 26. There are 34 class sessions that meet from 5:30-9:30 p.m. through August 18. The 134 hours of classroom instruction is combined with a 160-hour externship to prepare participants for working in a doctor’s office.

A clinical medical assistant works with physicians to complete procedures, care for patients, perform simple lab tests, and administer medication. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the demand for clinical medical assistants in Ohio is expected to grow by 32 percent through the year 2016.

Prospective students can learn more about the need for a skilled health care workforce, and the clinical medical assistant program in particular, at a free information session on Tuesday, March 8, from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Student Life Building, Room 205. The session will include information on financing options, prerequisites and externships.

To register or for more information, call OCEWD at 330-684-8980 or 800-221-8308, ext. 8980, or e-mail OCEWD@uakron.edu.