Medication Aide Certificate Program w/ Computer (Hybrid)
Medication Aide Certificate Program w/ Computer (Hybrid)
The Hybrid Medication Aide Certificate Program at Dorson Vocational Training Institute prepares students to safely assist with medication administration in long-term care and assisted living environments under the supervision of licensed healthcare professionals.
This program is designed for entry-level healthcare workers, including CNAs, HHAs, and allied health trainees, and emphasizes medication safety, legal scope of practice, infection control, and documentation. The hybrid format supports adult learners while maintaining hands-on competency validation.
This program does not confer licensure. Graduates must comply with employer policies and applicable state regulations regarding medication assistance and supervision.
Upon Completion, Students Will Be Able To:
- Understand the role and scope of practice of a Medication Aide
- Apply medication safety principles and infection control standards
- Identify common medication classifications and their effects
- Assist with oral, topical, and non-invasive medication administration
- Accurately document medication assistance activities
- Recognize and report adverse reactions and medication errors
- Demonstrate professionalism and ethical conduct in healthcare settings
Online classes start immediately after acceptance. Upon successful completion of the required online instructional component of the program requirements students will be notified of their eligibility to sit for the applicable national certification examination through MedCA recognized credentialing body where applicable to the program.
Eligibility to test does not guarantee certification and is subject to the policies and requirements of the credentialing organization. Externship placement is subject to availability and is not guaranteed. Completion of an externship does not guarantee employment. Externship participation where applicable is optional and is not a condition of program completion or graduation. Students who request externship consideration will be notified following completion of the certification exam and in accordance with instructional of externship policies. Certain externship sites may require additional documentation, background checks, health screenings or compliance with site specific policies. Failure to meet externship site requirements may result in denial of placement without refund or program extension.
Our record of job placement assistance is currently 90%. Recruiters pay for access to recruit Dorson VTI graduates.
Admission Requirements & Eligibility
Review the requirements below to see if you qualify for our Medication Aide program.
To Enroll, You'll Need:
- High school diploma or GED
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Social Security card or proof of legal work status
- Current CNA certification (preferred) or equivalent experience
- Basic reading and communication skills in English
Upon Completion You Will Receive:
- Certificate of Completion – Medication Aide
- Eligibility to sit for applicable certification exam
- Resume writing and interview coaching
- Job placement assistance with local employers
- Career advancement pathway guidance
- Dorson VTI certificate of completion
Program Cost:
- Full Course: $1,500
- Registration Fee: $75 (non-refundable)
- Total: $1,575
- All certification fees billed separately
- WIOA funding may be available for eligible students
- Payment plans available — contact admissions
Program Schedule:
- 60 hours total (hybrid format)
- Estimated duration: ~3 weeks (4 hrs/day, Mon–Fri)
- Online classes start immediately after acceptance
- Multiple start dates throughout the year
- Classes held in East Orange, NJ
Course Outcomes
Graduates will be prepared to work as Medication Aides in long-term care facilities, assisted living communities, group homes, and residential care settings in New Jersey.
Medication Administration
- Oral medication preparation and administration
- Topical, ophthalmic, and otic medication application
- Inhaled medication administration
- Five rights of medication administration
- Medication storage and handling procedures
Pharmacology Fundamentals
- Drug classifications and common medications
- Side effects, interactions, and contraindications
- Medication dosage calculations
- Over-the-counter and PRN medication protocols
- Recognizing adverse drug reactions
Documentation & Safety
- Medication administration record (MAR) documentation
- Medication error reporting procedures
- Controlled substance handling protocols
- Infection control during medication administration
- Resident rights during medication administration
Regulatory Compliance
- NJ state regulations for medication aides
- Scope of practice and supervisory requirements
- Long-term care facility policies and procedures
- HIPAA and resident confidentiality
- Career readiness and job search preparation
Average Annual Salary in NJ
Job Market Growth (2022–2032)
Local Job Openings in NJ
Clinical Training
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about our Medication Aide program? Find answers below.
• WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) — federally funded assistance that may cover tuition for eligible students.
• Bank Financing — low-interest education financing through our banking partners.
• Corporate / Employer Sponsored — if your employer offers tuition assistance, we can work directly with them.
• Other Funding Sources — we work with various community and government funding organizations.
• Flexible Payment Plans — ask our admissions team about installment options.
Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more, or call us at 973-676-6300.
