Jeffrey Imbrescia, CEO and President of DEC, Invest Pittsburgh Interview
March 10, 2026
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MEDICAL ASSISTANT PROGRAM
ASSOCIATE IN SPECIALIZED BUSINESS DEGREE PROGRAM
Affordable. Convenient. Flexible.
The Medical Assistant Program at DEC is an engaging and interactive program that is taught both online and on-ground! This exciting program has been designed to provide the convenient and flexible schedule working adults need. Students complete academic work online and reinforce the application of this knowledge during on-campus lab sessions in a collaborative learning environment.
The Medical Assistant Program provides graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level medical assisting positions. Students will be prepared to function as clinical and office professionals for physicians, or to obtain employment in hospital departments, such as laboratory or EKG.
As part of class time, all students will participate in hands-on community clinical experiences that will allow them to practice clinic skills on various age groups.
What is Hybrid Learning?
“Hybrid learning” is a unique course design that combines hands-on, face-to-face class time (on-ground) with online and away-from-class course work using technology. This blended learning method is developed to provide a hands-on learning experience coupled with a flexible schedule. The method of delivery of each course (to achieve the ultimate in learning experience) will be one of these two methods:
“Hybrid learning” is a unique course design that combines hands-on, face-to-face class time (on-ground) with online and away-from-class course work using technology. This blended learning method is developed to provide a hands-on learning experience coupled with a flexible schedule. The method of delivery of each course (to achieve the ultimate in learning experience) will be one of these two methods:
- Courses that are 100% online (defined as an online course)
- Courses that are partly on ground and party online (defined as a hybrid course)
Do you want to work in a career where every day brings new challenges and opportunities in patient care? Accelerate your career today by enrolling in DEC’s Medical Assistant Program!
EMPLOYERS OF DEC GRADS INCLUDE:
American Medical
Monongahela Valley Hospital
Central Blood Bank
Centerville Clinic
Davenport Hall
Homestead Unlimited
Laurel Pediatrics
Monongahela Valley Hospital
Central Blood Bank
Centerville Clinic
Davenport Hall
Homestead Unlimited
Laurel Pediatrics
Prime Medical Group
Western PA Diagnostics
UPMC Shadyside
Dr. George Toohey
Valley Women’s Health
Prime Medical
Dr. Rayon Office
Western PA Diagnostics
UPMC Shadyside
Dr. George Toohey
Valley Women’s Health
Prime Medical
Dr. Rayon Office
CERTIFICATIONS
Program graduates who successfully complete the program are eligible to take the National Association for Health Professionals (NAHP) medical assistant, phlebotomy technician, and coding specialist certifications. DEC graduates have consistently scored above the national average. Additionally, these graduates are eligible to become First Aid and CPR certified. Certification may open doors to higher earning potential and career development.
FACULTY
CLICK TO EXPAND
+ ELLEN PRITCHARD, Allied Health Program Coordinator
R.N., Washington Hospital School of Nursing
Certificate as Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant from the National Allied Health Test Registry
Certificate as Nationally Registered Certified Coding Specialist from the National Allied Health Test Registry
+ AMANDA FETSKO, Instructor
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
B.S.W., California University of Pennsylvania
M.S.W., California University of Pennsylvania
+ LETTIE PORTER, Instructor
A.S.B., Medical Assistant / Administration, Douglas Education Center
SUPPORT
- 24/7 Online Tech Support
- Dedicated Online Operations and Information Technology staff
- Tutoring available online (Skype, webinar, chat, etc.) and on ground (one-on-one)
- Caring and understanding faculty and administration to help you succeed in your career and in your life.
- No boring online standard courses. Each course is interactive and was customized in house.
- Less expensive than most 100% on ground programs. Financial Aid is available to those who qualify.
- Career Services Department to assist you in career advice and career counseling.
