MA/DA Apprenticeship Program

The Iowa PCA has created a Medical Assistant (MA) Apprenticeship Program and a Dental Assistant (DA) Apprenticeship Program in response to our community health centers’ greatest workforce needs. In 2021, MAs and DAs were identified as the top two areas for focus by the Readiness to Train Assessment Tool (RTAT). 

The Iowa PCA recently received a $50,000 grant from Telligen Community Initiative to support both a Medical and Dental Assistant program for Iowa’s community health centers.  The Iowa PCA is currently implementing and evaluating online, on-demand MA and DA training programs developed by Washington Association for Community Health. These courses are structured to be self-paced, and all topics are available to the trainee from the start via the Learning Management System, Canvas. Additionally, our implementation goals include attracting and recruiting diverse, community-based, non-traditional students to become MAs and DAs through this cost-effective option for Iowa’s health centers. 

Program Information

  • Earn to learn 12+ month, full-time, paid employment apprenticeship program
  • $12/hr minimum starting salary, with $14/hr minimum wage after completion of a program
  • Online coursework and national exam/certification paid for by employer
  • An opportunity to learn clinical skills and connect with your community while advancing your career

Please contact Nicole Hudson and Liz Rosa for information on open positions and to answer any questions.