Enroll in a college that offers a Medical Transcription Program. Consider Des Moines Area Community College, Mercy College of Health Sciences and Vatterott College---all in Des Moines, Iowa. Keep in mind that most courses require daytime classes, while some required classes are offered at night.
Inquire about on-the-job training. Determine whether a college program also helps you gain on-the-job experience while you are attending college. Accept an opportunity to work in a medical transcription office while you are training, as this will give you an advantage when searching for a transcription job after you complete the training.
Sharpen your English, grammar and typing skills. Practice typing from a recorded tape or online program to gain experience in transcribing. Check your work to see where you need improvement in any of these areas.
Learn anatomy, medical terminology, pharmaceutical terms and medical abbreviations.
Be able to pass a certification examination on these topics, as they will be the focus of your work as a transcriptionist.
Practice listening and transcribing what people say. Become proficient at understanding different people's accents, inflections and unusual ways they pronounce common words. Practice the art of transcribing, either with a transcription machine or by computer.
Take the Registered Medical Transcriptionist (RMT) Exam, which is for those who have accumulated less than 2 years' experience on the job as a transcriptionist. Take the Certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT) Exam if you have previously worked in the field for at least 2 years.
Take continuing education classes to retain and further your knowledge and skills in the field. Be prepared for advancement on the job. Learn about any new medical procedures, terminology and medication information that comes along. Keep apprised of new advancements in transcription equipment and procedures, as well.