What Jobs Can You Get With a Medical Assistant Diploma or Certificate for 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Many individuals who have earned a medical assistant diploma or certificate question the practical career applications of their qualifications. They wonder about the specific job roles their education has prepared them for and the overall demand for professionals with their skill set within the healthcare industry. This uncertainty can create anxiety for those eager to embark on their healthcare careers.

Fortunately, a medical assistant diploma or certificate can open doors to various rewarding job opportunities. The medical assisting field is experiencing substantial growth, with employment projected to increase by 15% between 2023 and 2033. So, qualified individuals are in high demand. With over a decade of expertise in career planning and relying solely on credible sources, we’ll help you explore diverse career paths accessible with a medical assistant credential.

Key Things You Should Know About the Jobs You Can Get With a Medical Assistant Diploma or Certificate 

• A medical assistant diploma or certificate enables access to a wide range of entry-level healthcare careers—such as medical assistant, EKG technician, and billing specialist—with salaries ranging from $33,585 (Home Health Aide) to $50,191 (Medical Administrative Assistant), highlighting versatility and rising demand.
• The typical responsibilities of medical assistants include a dual focus on clinical tasks (e.g., taking vital signs, assisting procedures, conducting diagnostic tests) and administrative duties (e.g., managing records, billing, scheduling), making them indispensable to the smooth operation of healthcare facilities.
• Training for a medical assistant diploma usually lasts 4 to 12 months and costs between $1,500 and $40,000, with job growth projected at 15% from 2023 to 2033 and over 119,000 annual openings, making it a cost-effective entry point into the expanding healthcare workforce.

Table of Contents 

1. List of Jobs You Can Get With a Medical Assistant Diploma or Certificate for 2025
2. What are the typical daily duties and responsibilities of a medical assistant? 
3. How long does it take to get a medical assistant diploma or certificate?
4. How much does it cost to get a medical assistant diploma or certificate? 
5. What are the career opportunities available to RNs who have completed a bridge program from medical assisting?
6. Who offers medical assistant certificates?
7. How do the job placement rates compare between community colleges and trade schools for medical assistants? 
8. How do online medical assistant programs compare in cost and career impact?
9. Can advanced education broaden your healthcare career opportunities?
10. Are there alternative job roles for medical assistants?
11. What is the projected job growth for those who have a medical assistant diploma or certificate?
12. What are medical assistants legally allowed to do?
13. What additional certifications can further enhance your healthcare career?
14. Other Things You Should Know About the Jobs You Can Get With a Medical Assistant Diploma or Certificate

List of Jobs You Can Get With a Medical Assistant Diploma or Certificate for 2025

A medical assistant diploma or certificate opens the door to various career opportunities. Here are some of them: 

Medical Assistant

Medical assistants are vital healthcare professionals who support physicians by conducting routine examinations, assisting with bedside procedures, and performing diagnostic tests. Often in clinics and doctors' offices, they handle clinical and administrative tasks, contributing significantly to the smooth operation of healthcare facilities amidst high national demand.

Median annual salary: $41,370 

Medical Administrative Assistant

Medical administrative assistants keep clinics and healthcare offices running efficiently by skillfully handling scheduling, patient documentation, billing processes, and referrals, ensuring outpatient centers operate smoothly through their detailed administrative work.

Median annual salary: $50,191

Phlebotomist

Phlebotomists are skilled in drawing blood samples from patients in diverse settings like hospitals, labs, and clinics. Their crucial work provides vital specimens for laboratory analysis, playing a key role in patient diagnosis and care across the healthcare spectrum.

Median annual salary: $39,658

EKG Technician

EKG technicians utilize electrocardiograph machines to record the heart's electrical activity. These recordings are critical in diagnosing various cardiac conditions, ranging from arrhythmias to heart attacks. They provide essential information for patient care.

Median annual salary: $49,724

Medical Claims Examiner

Medical claims examiners review medical claims for accuracy and adherence to policy guidelines. They assess the legitimacy of expenses related to illnesses or injuries. They also determine coverage responsibilities for both the insurer and the claimant, often working in an office setting or remotely.

Median annual salary: $43,917

Medical Records Technician

Medical records technicians meticulously organize and update medical records, conduct thorough chart reviews, and ensure the accuracy and confidentiality of sensitive data within healthcare systems.

Median annual salary: $44,324

Home Health Aide

Home health aides provide support to individuals in their own homes, assisting with essential daily activities such as meal preparation and personal care. They may also monitor vital signs and blood sugar, contributing significantly to the well-being and independence of their clients. Medical assistant training offers a valuable foundation for this rewarding career.

Median annual salary: $33,585

Dispensing Optician

Dispensing opticians assist individuals in selecting and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses for optimal comfort and vision. While they don't perform eye exams, their expertise in facial measurements and frame selection ensures a precise and comfortable fit. Their role also requires knowledge of medical terminology, ethics, billing, and administrative practices.

Median annual salary: $41,705

Medical Coding and Billing Specialist

Medical Coding and Billing Specialists translate medical diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes for accurate insurance claim submission and patient billing. Understanding the nuances of medical coding certification comparison CBCS vs CPC is crucial for professionals in this field, as they serve as important intermediaries between healthcare providers, insurers, and patients.  

Median annual salary: $45,672

Patient Care Technician

Patient Care Technicians directly assist patients with their daily needs, including personal care, mobility, and nutritional support. While their responsibilities differ, understanding what is a patient care coordinator can provide context for the broader spectrum of patient support roles in healthcare; like PCTs, they also focus on patient well-being by diligently monitoring vital signs, collecting specimens, maintaining a clean environment, and offering crucial emotional support, all while communicating important observations to the nursing staff.

Median annual salary: $38,476

What are the typical daily duties and responsibilities of a medical assistant? 

Medical assistants play a crucial role in healthcare settings, balancing both clinical and administrative responsibilities to support physicians, nurses, and patients. Their daily duties can vary depending on the size and type of the medical facility, but generally include the following:

Clinical Duties

• Preparing exam rooms: Medical assistants ensure examination rooms are clean, sanitized, and stocked with necessary supplies and equipment before and after each patient visit.
• Greeting and preparing patients: They escort patients to exam rooms, take and record vital signs (such as blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate), and gather medical histories or information about current symptoms.
• Assisting with procedures: Medical assistants help physicians during exams and minor procedures by handing instruments, positioning patients, and sometimes acting as a chaperone.
• Performing basic laboratory tasks: This includes drawing blood, collecting urine or other specimens, conducting basic lab tests, and labeling samples for processing.
• Administering medications and injections: Under the supervision of a physician and as permitted by law, they may give injections, administer vaccines, or apply wound dressings.
• Conducting diagnostic tests: Medical assistants may set up and monitor EKGs or perform other basic diagnostic procedures.
• Cleaning and sterilizing equipment: They are responsible for sterilizing medical instruments and disposing of contaminated supplies properly.

Administrative Duties

• Scheduling appointments: Medical assistants manage patient appointment calendars, confirm upcoming visits, and coordinate referrals to specialists.
• Answering phones: They serve as the first point of contact, answering calls and responding to inquiries.
• Maintaining patient records: Updating and organizing electronic health records, entering new information, and ensuring confidentiality are key responsibilities.
• Billing and insurance: They assist with medical billing, coding, processing insurance claims, and helping patients understand their coverage or complete necessary forms.
• Managing office supplies: Medical assistants keep track of medical and office supply inventories, ordering more when needed to ensure smooth operations.

Meanwhile, the chart below shows the most in-demand medical assistant skills aspirants need to develop. 

Medical assistants who pursue further education can transition into specialized roles. For example, someone curious about clinical data and healthcare systems might explore roles that match a clinical informatics job description, combining patient care experience with data-driven decision-making to improve hospital workflows and patient outcomes.

How long does it take to get a medical assistant diploma or certificate?

The time required to earn a medical assistant diploma or certificate depends on the educational institution. Most certificate or diploma programs take between four months and one year to complete, typically ranging from five to six months for accelerated online programs to nine to 12 months for in-person or community college options. Some accelerated programs may be completed in as little as six weeks, though these are less common. 

For those who want to pursue an accelerated online RN program in 1 year, our experts can guide you through the admission requirements and help you find accredited institutions that fit your needs and learning style.

How much does it cost to get a medical assistant diploma or certificate?

The cost of a medical assistant diploma or certificate varies significantly by program type and institution, typically ranging from $1,500 to $40,000, with most basic certificate programs falling between $1,500 and $10,000. Fortunately, numerous scholarships are available for medical assistant students, including program-specific awards, institutional grants, and national opportunities, which can help offset these expenses.

• Pell Grant: The cap for a Pell Grant award is set at $7,395 for the 2025–2026 award year, covering the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.
• State-Specific Grants: Examples include the Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant ($500–$1,000) and Minnesota State’s Workforce Development Scholarship (up to $5,000). 
• Organization-Specific Aid: The Wisconsin Medical Society Foundation and ASAHP provide variable amounts for students in member schools or state residents.
• “Save a Life” Scholarship: $1,500 from the American Academy of CPR and First Aid for healthcare students. 

What are the career opportunities available to RNs who have completed a bridge program from medical assisting?

Completing a medical assistant to RN bridge program opens up a wide array of career opportunities for registered nurses (RNs). Similarly, for Licensed Practical Nurses seeking career advancement, exploring LPN to RN bridge programs online can provide a flexible route to becoming an RN. Building upon their existing clinical experience, whether gained as medical assistants or LPNs, these RNs often possess a unique understanding of patient care and the healthcare system, making them valuable assets in various settings. Here are some potential career paths:

• Hospital Staff Nurse: This is a common role, working in various departments such as medical-surgical, pediatrics, geriatrics, cardiology, oncology, emergency room, intensive care unit (ICU), and more. Their experience as a medical assistant can provide a strong foundation in basic patient care, vital signs, and assisting with procedures.
• Clinic Nurse: They work in physicians' offices, specialty clinics, or outpatient care centers. Their background as a medical assistant gives them familiarity with the clinic environment, patient flow, and administrative tasks, alongside their expanded nursing skills.
• Oncology Nurse: They focus on the care of cancer patients.
• Pediatric Nurse: They specialize in the healthcare needs of children.
• Nurse Manager/Supervisor: They oversee nursing staff and patient care in a specific unit or department. Their understanding of the roles of various healthcare team members, potentially gained from their medical assistant experience, can be advantageous.

• Nurse Educator: They teach nursing students in academic or hospital settings. Their practical experience as both a medical assistant and an RN can enrich their teaching.

Meanwhile, the chart below shows the most common medical assistant degrees:

Who offers medical assistant certificates?

Medical assistant certificates are offered by a wide range of institutions, including community colleges, vocational schools, online training providers, and universities. Community colleges often provide affordable, accredited programs combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical externships. Meanwhile, vocational and technical schools focus on practical skills for quick entry into the workforce. 

Online programs provide flexibility for self-paced learning, though students should ensure these are accredited to qualify for certifications like the CMA (AAMA) or Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA). About 72% of healthcare employers require certifications for medical assistant candidates. 

How do the job placement rates compare between community colleges and trade schools for medical assistants? 

Job placement success for medical assistants differs between community colleges and trade schools. While some trade schools tout exceptionally high placement rates, even reaching 100% for recent graduates, this may stem from their specialized curricula and explicit career training. Community colleges also demonstrate strong job placement, frequently reporting rates between 80% and 90%, with some programs also achieving 100% in particular years. However, it's crucial to recognize that these rates are not static and can change depending on the specific school, its geographic location, and the timeframe under consideration. Several factors contribute to these outcomes for both types of institutions, including program accreditation, the quality of career services provided, and connections with local employers. 

Generally, trade schools tend to offer more direct support tailored for immediate entry into medical assistant positions. In contrast, community colleges often provide greater flexibility for students seeking long-term career advancement. Consequently, for individuals prioritizing immediate job placement, trade schools might offer a slight advantage, although accredited medical assistant programs at community colleges remain highly competitive.

One alternative path is becoming a logistics coordinator in healthcare settings, managing inventory, equipment, and supply chains. Those curious about this career might explore what is a logistics manager, as the role often intersects with organizational efficiency, a skill many medical assistants already cultivate.

How do online medical assistant programs compare in cost and career impact?

Accredited online education for medical assisting offers increased flexibility and often reduced overall expenses when compared to traditional programs. These programs can provide accelerated learning pathways, allowing students to enter the workforce faster while maintaining stringent academic standards. Prospective students should evaluate program accreditation, student support services, and clinical externship opportunities to ensure the training meets industry requirements. For comprehensive comparisons on affordability and program quality, consider reviewing online medical assistant programs.

Can advanced education broaden your healthcare career opportunities?

Pursuing further education can open pathways to specialized roles and enhanced responsibility within the healthcare field. Expanding your skill set through additional certifications or advanced degree programs offers a strategic advantage and can lead to positions in management, clinical research, and pharmacology. For example, professionals interested in deepening their understanding of medication therapy and patient care may consider exploring fast track PharmD online degree programs, which provide an accelerated route to an advanced pharmacy degree. This type of educational progression not only enriches clinical expertise but also positions practitioners for future leadership roles in a rapidly evolving industry.

Are there alternative job roles for medical assistants?

There are several alternative job roles for medical assistants. The foundational knowledge and skills they gained can be transferable to various other healthcare and related positions. Here are a few examples:

• Pharmacy Technician: Medical assistants often develop a strong understanding of medications and medical terminology, skills that are highly valuable in a pharmacy setting, prompting some to consider how to become a pharmacy technician. A pharmacy technician assists pharmacists with dispensing medications, managing inventory, and interacting with patients.
• Dental Assistant: While there are specific dental assisting programs, some of the core skills learned as a medical assistant, such as patient care, taking vital signs, and understanding medical terminology, can provide a solid base for working as a dental assistant. Additional on-the-job training or a shorter dental-specific program might be required.
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic: The patient assessment and basic medical knowledge acquired as a medical assistant can serve as a stepping stone to becoming an EMT or paramedic. Further, more intensive training is necessary to develop the skills required for emergency medical services, but the initial foundation can be beneficial.
• Clinical Research Coordinator: Medical assistants with strong organizational and communication skills can transition into roles supporting clinical research studies. They might be involved in recruiting participants, collecting data, and managing study documentation.

What is the projected job growth for those who have a medical assistant diploma or certificate?

For individuals seeking a stable and growing career, the medical assistant diploma or certificate can be a valuable asset in a thriving job market. Projections indicate a significantly faster-than-average employment growth of 15% between 2023 and 2033, translating to roughly 119,800 annual job openings over the coming decade. This surge in demand is primarily fueled by the healthcare needs of the aging baby-boom generation, increasing the necessity for medical assistants in administrative and clinical roles within primary care settings.

The growing demand for entry-level healthcare workers reflects similar trends in adjacent fields. Understanding what does a GIS analyst do can help career changers consider opportunities outside clinical roles—like spatial health data analysis, which supports public health and emergency services.

Medical assistants held about 783,900 jobs in 2023. Below were the largest employers of medical assistants:

What are medical assistants legally allowed to do?

Functioning under the supervision of licensed healthcare professionals like physicians and nurse practitioners, medical assistants are legally authorized to perform a range of clinical and administrative duties. Their specific scope of practice is determined at the state level. 

Legally, medical assistants cannot practice independently, diagnose, interpret tests, prescribe medications, perform invasive procedures, conduct unsupervised telephone triage, or handle controlled substances/non-pre-packaged medications. 

State regulations further define their allowable tasks, and adherence to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), accurate documentation, and working within their authorized scope are critical legal obligations. 

Medical assistants often work closely with licensed healthcare professionals. Their role differs from educational specialists, but learners curious about becoming educators in healthcare might want to understand the nurse educator job description, which includes mentoring, curriculum development, and classroom teaching.

What additional certifications can further enhance your healthcare career?

Supplementing a medical assistant diploma or certificate with targeted credentials can unlock advanced roles and increased earning potential. Pursuing further training in specialized areas, such as cheap medical billing and coding certification, can broaden professional scope and signal a commitment to continuous improvement. Advanced certifications in fields like clinical informatics, phlebotomy, or EKG operation provide applicants with a competitive edge in a dynamic healthcare market while meeting evolving regulatory and technology standards.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About the Jobs You Can Get With a Medical Assistant Diploma or Certificate

Working as a medical assistant has been a fulfilling career move for me. The diploma program provided practical skills that I use daily, and it's rewarding to directly contribute to patient care in a meaningful way. Seeing patients feel more at ease after I've assisted them brings a sense of satisfaction. - Heart 

My certificate in medical assisting opened doors to a healthcare environment where I feel like part of a dedicated team. I appreciate the variety in my tasks, from administrative duties to assisting with procedures. It's comforting to know that my work helps keep the clinic running smoothly and supports positive patient outcomes. - Mark

The medical assisting program was a stepping stone into the healthcare field that offered a good balance of patient interaction and organizational responsibilities. I value the connections I've made with both colleagues and patients, and I find it gratifying to be a point of contact that helps people navigate their healthcare experience. - Pia

Key Findings 

• Employment for medical assistants is projected to increase by 15% between 2023 and 2033.
• The median annual salary for a medical assistant is $41,370.
• Most medical assistant certificate or diploma programs take between four months and one year to complete.
• The cost of a medical assistant diploma or certificate can range from $1,500 to $40,000.
• There are approximately 119,800 annual job openings projected for medical assistants over the next decade.

Other Things You Should Know About the Jobs You Can Get With a Medical Assistant Diploma or Certificate 

What is the hardest part of being a medical assistant?

The hardest part of being a medical assistant is managing the wide variety of responsibilities, long and irregular hours, and the emotional toll of working with sick or distressed patients. Medical assistants must juggle both administrative and clinical duties, adapt to intense environments, and maintain professionalism and compassion, which can be physically and emotionally demanding. 

Which medical assistant certification pays the most? 

Among general medical assistant certifications, the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) are associated with the highest earning potential, as they are widely recognized and preferred by employers. 

What is the highest degree in medical assisting? 

The highest degree specifically in medical assisting is typically an associate degree, as bachelor's degrees in this field are rare and usually combine medical assisting training with broader health sciences. 

What is the fastest way to become a medical assistant?

The fastest way to become a medical assistant is through an accelerated online program coupled with required clinical hours, typically taking four to eight weeks for coursework (self-paced) and additional time for externships. 

References: 

• Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. (2025, April 18). Medical Assistants. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm
• Glassdoor. (2025). How much does a Medical Administrative Assistant make? Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/medical-administrative-assistant-salary-SRCH_KO0,32.htm
• Kansas Board of Regents. (2025). KANSAS CAREER TECHNICAL WORKFORCE GRANT. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.kansasregents.gov/resources/PDF/Students/Student_Financial_Aid/CT_2024-2025.pdf
• Minnesota State. (2025). Workforce Development Scholarships. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.minnesota.edu/workforce-development-scholarships
• Online CPR Certification. (2025). Scholarship Awarded. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.onlinecprcertification.net/scholarship.php
• Wisconsin Medical Society Foundation. (2025). Wisconsin Medical Society. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://foundation.wismed.org/foundation/foundation/Home.aspx
• Zippia.com. (2025). What is a medical assistant and how to become one. Retrieved from https://www.zippia.com/medical-assistant-jobs
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). Dispensing Optician Salary. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Dispensing-Optician-Salary#Yearly
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). EKG Technician Salary. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Ekg-Technician-Salary#Yearly
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). Home Health Aide Salary. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Home-Health-Aide-Salary#Yearly
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). Medical Assistant Salary. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Medical-Assistant-Salary#Yearly
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). Medical Billing And Coding Specialist Salary. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Medical-Billing-And-Coding-Specialist-Salary#Yearly
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). Medical Claims Examiner Salary. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Medical-Claims-Examiner-Salary#Yearly
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). Medical Records Technician Salary. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Medical-Records-Technician-Salary
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). Phlebotomist Salary. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Phlebotomist-Salary#Yearly