Patient Care Technology/Medical Assisting

How to Apply

To complete admissions for the Patient Care Technology/Medical Assisting program, applicants must submit all institutional general admissions requirements and Patient Care Technology/Medical Assisting program-specific requirements to be considered.

Admission to the Patient Care Technology/Medical Assisting program is highly competitive, and only a select number of students are enrolled each year.  To qualify, an applicant must meet the minimum requirements of the HESI Admissions Assessment Test. However, this does not guarantee admission. Our Dental Assisting Class will be selected from the highest scores on the HESI test.

General Admissions Requirements

Please submit to the Student Services Office at 1100 Liberty Street, Knoxville TN 37919

• Complete the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online – our school code is 004025.
• Complete the Application for Enrollment form online at www.tcatknoxville.edu and select APPLY NOW.
• Submit the additional program requirements listed below. 

Patient Care Technology/Medical Assisting Admission Requirements

• Students must be 18 years of age by the start of class and submit an active state-issued photo ID or driver's license/real ID.
• Provide an official high school transcript or equivalent (a special education diploma will not qualify)
  • Transcripts can be sent either by mail, carried in the original sealed envelope, or electronically from the educational institution directly to TCAT Knoxville to the email admissions@tcatknoxville.edu .
  • IMPORTANT: If you have foreign transcripts, you will need to submit an English-translated version of your transcript and an education evaluation, both of which must be obtained through the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services. Please visit their website at www.naces.org for more information
• Proof of below immunizations:
  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): 2 series immunization (2 shots) OR a titer showing immunization within the last year
  • Varicella: 2 series immunizations (2 shots) OR a titer showing immunization to chickenpox within the last year
  • Adult Hepatitis B: 3 series immunizations (3 shots) OR a titer showing immunization within the last year OR proof of the series in progress
  • TDAP (Tetanus): Within 10 years of the start date. 
• Take and pass the HESI Exam. The exam covers Math and Reading Comprehension, and the cost is $50.00. Passing scores are 50 in math and 70 in the reading exam.
  • 2026 HESI Exam Schedule
• Provide current CPR card certification from the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association in BLS for Healthcare Providers, which covers basic life support in infant, child, adult, choking, and AED.

According to CDC guidelines, you may be exposed to blood-borne pathogens and infectious materials while in this program.

The Patient Care Technology/Medical Assisting program has been approved by the State of Tennessee Health Facilities Commission.