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First Institute

3 Campuses
3 Programs

Since our founding in 1982, First Institute has been preparing students like you for rewarding careers. Our focus is on ensuring graduates are career-ready, so you are equipped with the skills, experience and connections to pursue a new career.

And while our programs have evolved over the years to meet changes in technology and the demands of the job market, our total commitment to our students – and their success—remains unchanged.

You can’t put your life on hold to go back to school. At First Institute, you don’t have to. Our programs are tailored for busy adults with work and family commitments. We have both day and evening class options, so you can find the best fit for your needs.

Available Programs

  • Massage Therapy
    Cosmetology and Wellness

    Available at this location

    Crystal Lake, IL

    790 McHenry Ave
    Crystal Lake, IL 60014

  • Dental Assisting
    Medicine and Health Care

    Available at these locations

    Crystal Lake, IL

    790 McHenry Ave
    Crystal Lake, IL 60014

    Libertyville, IL

    1139 S Milwaukee Ave
    Libertyville, IL 60048

  • Medical Assisting
    Medicine and Health Care

    First Institute’s Medical Assistant program takes as little as 53 weeks to complete!

    Are you the type of person who likes caring for others? Who wants to nurture and heal people and relieve pain? A career as a Medical Assistant could be perfect for you. At First Institute, you can learn the skills you need to get started in this essential field in around a year.

    As the population ages, the need for medical professionals of all types will continue to grow. At First Institute, you’ll get both online classes with hands-on training as you learn the skills needed to start your career with confidence. You’ll learn:

    • Anatomy, physiology and pathology
    • Medical terminology
    • Medical billing and coding and health records management
    • Medical insurance claims utilizing CPT-4 & ICD-10 codebooks
    • Medical law and ethics
    • Instruction in clinical procedures
    • Medical office administration and communications
    • Lab Procedures including EKG, phlebotomy, urinalysis and diagnostic testing
    • Medical assisting procedures in minor surgeries, pediatrics, OB examinations, imaging and radiology

    You’ll also complete a 160-hour (10-week) externship in a medical office setting, where you’ll work with real patients and healthcare providers.

    Available at these locations

    Aurora, IL

    405 N. Eola Road
    Aurora, IL 60502

    Crystal Lake, IL

    790 McHenry Ave
    Crystal Lake, IL 60014

    Libertyville, IL

    1139 S Milwaukee Ave
    Libertyville, IL 60048

All Campus Locations

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