Best Medical Assistant Classes Online with Financial Aid in 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online medical assistant class? 

Online medical assistant classes offer a flexible route to certification and clinical roles, providing essential knowledge and skills through a comprehensive curriculum. This typically covers medical terminology, anatomy, clinical procedures, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliance.

Administrative skills are honed via interactive modules and virtual labs, culminating in a capstone project. Practical competency is ensured through a mandatory clinical externship (160-204 hours) at local healthcare facilities, allowing real-world application of learned concepts.

Tuition ranges from $1,500 to $5,000, with self-paced or structured four to nine-month formats. Delivered via 24/7 accessible platforms featuring video lectures, simulations, and mentor support, these programs blend asynchronous learning with occasional live sessions, balancing convenience with practical training.

Where can I work with an online medical assistant degree?

An online medical assistant degree opens diverse career paths in healthcare and beyond, preparing graduates for roles in corporate clinics, government agencies, and nonprofits. While many work in hospitals or specialty practices, others find opportunities in telemedicine and remote administration.

Comprehensive clinical and administrative training, including phlebotomy, electrocardiograms (EKGs), and HIPAA compliance, qualifies graduates for positions like clinical assistants, medical office managers, and health IT support.

With projected employment reaching 901,900 by 2033, skills in patient care coordination and electronic health records offer career flexibility, potentially leading to roles in education, medical sales, or consulting. The self-paced nature of online training enhances career mobility.

How much can I make with an online medical assistant degree? 

Completing online medical assistant classes prepares individuals for a career with varied salary potential. In 2025, the average U.S. medical assistant earns around $41,370 annually or $20 per hour. However, pay varies by industry and location. Outpatient care centers typically offer higher salaries, averaging about $46,090 per year, followed by hospitals at $44,350. Geographically, places like San Francisco, California ($48,741) and Washington ($46,855) tend to offer higher average wages.

Experience level also influences earnings, with entry-level positions generally starting lower than those for experienced professionals. Obtaining additional certifications, such as becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), can enhance earning potential. Furthermore, pursuing further education in related healthcare fields may lead to higher-paying opportunities.

Table of Contents 

1. List of the Best Online Medical Assistant Programs for 2025
2. How long does it take to complete an online medical assistant program?
3. How does an online medical assistant program compare to an on-campus program? 
4. What is the average cost of an online medical assistant program?
5. What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online medical assistant program?
6. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online medical assistant program?
7. What courses are typically in an online medical assistant program?
8. How Can Advancing My Education Enhance Career Growth in Healthcare?
9. What challenges do students face in online medical assistant programs?
10. How Do Online Medical Assistant Programs Enhance Opportunities for Biology Majors?
11. What types of specializations are available in an online medical assistant program?
12. How to Choose the Best Online Medical Assistant Program
13. What career paths are available for graduates of an online medical assistant program?
14. What additional certifications can further enhance career prospects?
15. What is the job market for graduates with an online medical assistant degree?
16. Other Things You Should Know About an Online Medical Assistant Program

List of the Best Online Medical Assistant Programs for 2025

How do we rank schools? 

Considering the cost of pursuing a degree is a significant investment. Hence, it is crucial to have access to comprehensive and transparent information when making such choices. To support students in making well-informed decisions, our experts at Research.com have curated the best medical assistant classes online with financial aid for 2025, ranking the most desirable options offered by various universities. Our ranking algorithm utilizes up-to-date and comprehensive U.S. government data sets from:

• The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) database
• Peterson’s database, including their Distance Learning Licensed Data Set
• College Scorecard database
• National Center for Education Statistics

Our experts also consider various factors, including graduation rate, student-faculty ratio, and program focus. You can find more information about our methodology on this page.

1. Herzing University

Herzing University offers a 20-month online medical assistant degree program, which blends flexible online coursework with essential hands-on clinical lab experiences and an externship. Students gain the skills to become a medical assistant and are prepared for the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) certification exam, with the university covering the first attempt.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 60 
• Cost: $515 
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) 

2. Southwestern Community College

Southwestern Community College, situated in Sylva, North Carolina, provides a hybrid Associate in Applied Science in Medical Assisting degree. This two-year, five-semester program integrates the flexibility of online learning for half of its coursework with on-campus instruction.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 70 
• Cost: $79 for NC residents, $271 for out-of-state residents 
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. Bay Area Medical Academy

Bay Area Medical Academy (BAMA), with campuses in San Francisco and San Jose, California, offers a 9-month, hybrid 3-in-1 medical assistant program. This program prepares students for three certifications: National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA), Certified EKG Technician (CET), and California Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT-I) / National Certified Phlebotomy Technician (NCPT). BAMA also provides specific medical assisting scholarships and may offer a Free Medical Assistant Training Program to eligible students.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 900 hours 
• Cost: $16,726
• Accreditation: Middle States Association 

4. Davenport University

Davenport University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, provides a one-year online medical assisting certificate, serving as a stepping stone to associate or bachelor's degrees in related healthcare fields. The program prepares graduates for certification exams and covers essential topics like patient care and healthcare law, with a high percentage of students receiving financial aid.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 33
• Cost: $974 per credit (residents), $658 per credit (nonresidents)
• Accreditation: HLC 

5. Barton County Community College

Barton Community College, situated in Great Bend, Kansas, delivers a three-term online medical assistant certificate program. This curriculum blends general education with administrative and clinical coursework, culminating in a practical internship within an ambulatory healthcare setting. Students gain skills in areas like phlebotomy and CPR, and are prepared to take the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant exam.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 44
• Cost per Credit: $160
• Accreditation: HLC 

6. Dakota College at Bottineau 

Dakota College at Bottineau, located in North Dakota, provides a flexible one-year online medical assisting certificate program. This curriculum prepares graduates to pursue national certification through either the National Center for Competency Testing or the National Healthcareer Association. The program includes coursework in lab procedures and ECG interpretation, meeting North Dakota licensure requirements.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 38
• Cost per Semester: $5,551 - $6,457
• Accreditation: HLC 

7. Mercy College of Health Sciences

Located in Des Moines, Iowa, Mercy College of Health Sciences delivers a one-year online medical assisting certificate featuring flexible online or cohort-based learning complemented by two hands-on lab experiences. This program boasts impressive graduate outcomes, including high exam pass and job placement rates.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 25
• Cost per Credit: $437
• Accreditation: CAAHEP

8. Keiser University

Keiser University's online Associate of Science in Medical Assisting program offers a comprehensive 60-credit curriculum designed to equip graduates with crucial clinical skills. Students learn to manage patient histories, perform vital signs, assist physicians, administer injections, conduct lab tests and venipuncture, and operate ECG equipment.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 60 
• Cost: Not specified 
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. University of Providence 

The University of Providence offers a Medical Assistant Certificate Program that integrates the flexibility of online learning with mandatory in-person skill labs held on select weekends at designated sites in California, Montana, and Oregon, potentially requiring some travel. This program prepares students for various national certification exams.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 16
• Cost: $9,571
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) 

10. Northwood Technical College 

Northwood Technical College's Medical Assistant Program equips students with skills to manage medical offices, deliver patient care within regulations, perform key lab procedures, and uphold professionalism. The curriculum also emphasizes safety protocols and emergency response training for quality patient care.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 32 
• Cost: $5,662
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

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

How long does it take to complete an online medical assistant program?

The time required to complete an online medical assistant program varies depending on the specific program and format. Still, most online options are designed to be completed relatively quickly compared to traditional in-person programs.

Typical Duration of Online Medical Assistant Programs

• Fastest Programs: Some accelerated online medical assistant programs can be completed in as little as six weeks, though this is uncommon and typically very intensive.
• Standard Online Programs: Most reputable online medical assistant certificate programs take between four to nine months to complete.
• Self-Paced Options: Many online programs are self-paced, allowing students to finish as quickly as their schedule permits, often within four to six months.
• Maximum Time Allowed: Some programs give students up to six months to finish the coursework, even if it can be completed faster. 

How does an online medical assistant program compare to an on-campus program? 

Online medical assistant classes offer a different learning experience compared to on-campus programs, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Flexibility and Convenience

Online programs are highly flexible, letting students study at their own pace and fit coursework around their schedules, which is ideal for those with jobs or family commitments. In contrast, on-campus programs require attendance at set times and locations, providing a more structured but less convenient environment.

Hands-On Training and Practical Skills

On-campus programs excel in hands-on training, offering direct access to labs, equipment, and supervised clinical experiences. Online programs may lack this component, though some include externships or require students to arrange local practice, which can be challenging for those new to the field.

Interaction and Support

On-campus students benefit from immediate feedback, mentorship, and networking with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community. Online students interact mainly through discussion boards or virtual meetings, which can limit real-time support and collaborative opportunities.

Learning Style and Self-Discipline

Online programs require strong self-motivation and time management skills since students are responsible for keeping themselves on track. On-campus programs provide more guidance and structure, making them better suited for those who thrive with direct supervision and scheduled activities.

What is the average cost of an online medical assistant program?

The cost of online medical assistant programs exhibits considerable variability, typically ranging from approximately $1,500 to $5,000. This range is largely determined by the program type, with certificate programs generally representing the more affordable option and associate's degrees incurring higher tuition. Several factors contribute to the overall expense, including the program's duration, the type of institution offering it (such as vocational schools, community colleges, or universities), and whether it culminates in a diploma or a degree. Prospective students should also budget for potential additional costs, such as textbooks and certification examination fees.

When considering online education more broadly, significant cost advantages become apparent, particularly within the public sector. On average, pursuing an online degree from a public four-year college can save students an impressive $30,545 compared to the expense of an out-of-state traditional program. This substantial saving underscores the financial benefits of remote learning in public institutions. The financial contrast is even more striking at private colleges. An online degree from a private institution averages $62,756, a considerable reduction from the $198,616 typically associated with an in-person degree. These figures highlight the notable affordability often linked to online education, especially when compared to traditional out-of-state or private degree pathways.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online medical assistant program?

Students enrolling in online medical assistant classes have several financial aid options, depending on the type of program and the institution’s accreditation status. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the most common forms of financial support available:

Federal Financial Aid

• Eligibility: To qualify for federal financial aid, you must enroll in a program at a school that is accredited by a recognized accrediting body (e.g., CAAHEP, Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), or a regional accreditor).
• Types of Aid: Students with demonstrated financial need may be eligible for grants such as Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), which do not require repayment. In addition to grants, federal student loans are an option, although these funds must be repaid with interest. Furthermore, certain institutions participate in federal work-study programs, providing students the opportunity to earn money through part-time employment.

• Application: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility and aid amounts.

Institutional Aid

• School-Based Scholarships and Grants: Many colleges and training institutes offer scholarships and grants, which may be based on merit, need, or demographic criteria.
• Payment Plans: Many programs offer payment plans, allowing students to pay tuition in installments rather than a lump sum.
• Special Scholarships: Some institutions provide scholarships for underrepresented groups or based on academic achievement.

Private Scholarships and Grants

• External Scholarships: Various organizations, professional associations, and foundations offer scholarships specifically for medical assistant students. These can be based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria such as ethnicity or community service.
• Scholarship Websites: Websites and professional associations like the American Association of Medical Assistants may list opportunities for scholarships and grants. 

State-Based Aid

Some states offer grants, scholarships, or loan repayment programs for students pursuing healthcare careers. These vary by state and may require residency or commitment to work in underserved areas after graduation. 

Workforce and Community-Based Aid 

Prospective medical assistant students may also find financial assistance through workforce and community-based avenues. For instance, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) can provide eligible individuals with workforce grants or free training programs facilitated by local workforce boards or community organizations. Additionally, some employers offer tuition reimbursement or direct assistance to employees who are pursuing medical assistant training, which can significantly offset the cost of education.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online medical assistant program?

A high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) is the primary prerequisite for enrolling in an online medical assistant program. Institutions universally mandate that applicants have completed high school or hold an equivalent credential before enrollment. Furthermore, some programs may stipulate a minimum age for applicants, often set at 16 or 18 years old, and generally require applicants to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. This encompasses reading, writing, and speaking abilities. The application process typically involves submitting a completed application form along with documented proof of high school completion or a GED, and official transcripts may also be necessary.

Additional Requirements (Varies by Program)

• Proof of personal health insurance
• Passing a drug screening
• Physical examination
• Criminal background check
• CPR certification (often required before clinical/practicum components)
• Participation in a program orientation

What courses are typically in an online medical assistant program?

Online medical assistant classes typically include a variety of courses designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a healthcare setting. The curriculum often blends administrative and clinical topics to ensure graduates are well-rounded and prepared for the diverse responsibilities of a medical assistant. Here are some courses you can typically expect:  

• Anatomy and Physiology: This course explores the structure and function of the human body, including cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems. It provides a crucial foundation for understanding medical conditions and treatments. For example, students might learn about the different types of bones in the skeletal system and how muscles interact to create movement.  
• Medical Terminology: This course focuses on the language of medicine, teaching students the prefixes, suffixes, and root words used to build medical terms. Understanding medical terminology is essential for accurate communication in healthcare. Students learn to decipher terms related to diseases, procedures, and body systems.  
• Pathology and Pharmacology: Pathology introduces the study of diseases, their causes, and their effects on the body. Pharmacology covers medications, including their classifications, actions, dosages, side effects, and routes of administration. Medical assistants need to understand basic pharmacology to assist with medication management under supervision.  
• Microbiology and Infection Control: This course covers microorganisms, their role in disease, and methods to prevent the spread of infection. Topics include sterilization techniques, standard precautions, and proper handling of biohazardous materials.  

• Clinical Procedures: This course provides hands-on training in essential clinical skills, such as taking vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, respiration, temperature), assisting with physical examinations, applying bandages, and preparing patients for procedures. 
• First Aid and CPR: Students often receive training in basic first aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) to equip them to respond to medical emergencies.  

• Medical Office Procedures and Administration: This course focuses on the administrative tasks essential for running a medical office, including appointment scheduling, patient reception, managing medical records (both paper and electronic), and inventory control. It provides foundational knowledge relevant to those choosing between healthcare management and healthcare administration degrees for future career paths.
• Medical Law and Ethics: This course covers the legal and ethical principles that govern healthcare, including patient confidentiality (HIPAA), patient rights, informed consent, and medical malpractice.  

• Medical Billing and Coding: Students learn the basics of medical coding systems and the process of submitting insurance claims for reimbursement. Accurate billing and coding are crucial for healthcare facilities to receive payment. Those seeking a quick introduction might explore a 4 week online course for medical coding and billing cost.

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

How Can Advancing My Education Enhance Career Growth in Healthcare?

Pursuing further education can transition medical assistants into leadership and specialized roles without overlapping with core certification courses. Graduates may explore degree pathways that integrate clinical expertise with business and administration skills, which are critical for managing healthcare facilities and programs. For example, obtaining a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field can provide a competitive edge and open doors to management positions. In some cases, professionals may even combine their clinical background with studies in sports and health management, as seen in an online masters sports management degree, to diversify their qualifications and broaden their career trajectories.

What challenges do students face in online medical assistant programs?

Online medical assistant programs, though offering flexibility, come with distinct challenges that require proactive management. Balancing self-paced study with rigorous coursework demands strong time management and self-discipline. Remote learning settings may limit real-time interaction, potentially affecting the understanding of complex clinical procedures. Additionally, arranging reliable clinical externships in varied local environments can pose scheduling and logistical difficulties. Students should also prepare for potential technical challenges and actively build professional connections in a virtual setting. Recognizing and addressing these obstacles empowers candidates to plan effectively for both academic success and sustainable career growth, including exploring avenues such as what is the highest paid medical profession.

How Do Online Medical Assistant Programs Enhance Opportunities for Biology Majors?

Graduates with a biology background can leverage the practical clinical and administrative training provided by online medical assistant programs to transition into healthcare roles that value both scientific knowledge and patient care skills. These programs integrate specialized coursework with hands-on experiences, creating a dynamic learning environment that complements a biology degree with technical proficiency, regulatory familiarity, and direct patient interaction. This strategic skill set can broaden career avenues and provide access to positions such as highest paying entry-level jobs for biology majors, ultimately enhancing employability in both clinical and scientific settings.

What types of specializations are available in an online medical assistant program?

Here are some types of specializations or areas of emphasis that aspiring medical assistants might find:

• Phlebotomy: Some programs may offer more in-depth training in phlebotomy, preparing graduates to become proficient in drawing blood for various tests. While a general MA program includes phlebotomy, a specialization might involve advanced techniques or a higher volume of practical experience. Some programs even combine Medical Assistant training with Phlebotomy Technician certification preparation. Check out our article that answers the question: Who makes more medical assistant or phlebotomist?
• OB/GYN Medical Assistant: A focus on obstetrics and gynecology would involve assisting with women's health exams, prenatal care, and gynecological procedures, potentially leading to further specialization through sonography programs online to assist with ultrasound imaging in these areas.
• Geriatric Medical Assistant: With an aging population, a focus on geriatrics can be valuable. This specialization would involve understanding the specific health concerns of elderly patients and adapting care accordingly.

• Pediatric Medical Assistant: Individuals who enjoy working with children, a pediatric focus would cover the unique aspects of providing medical care to infants, children, and adolescents, potentially serving as an initial step for those considering how to become a pediatrician through further education and specialization.
• Electrocardiography (EKG/ECG) Technician: Similar to phlebotomy, some programs might offer a specialization in EKG, providing more comprehensive training in performing and interpreting electrocardiograms. This can lead to roles primarily focused on cardiac monitoring. Some programs prepare students for the EKG Technician certification exam.

These specializations can pave the way for medical assistant career growth opportunities.

How to Choose the Best Online Medical Assistant Program

Choosing the best online medical assistant program requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure the program meets your individual needs, learning style, and career goals. 

Accreditation and Certification Preparation

It is essential to ensure that the online medical assistant program you choose holds accreditation from a recognized agency, such as the CAAHEP or the ABHES. Accreditation serves as a guarantee that the program's curriculum adheres to established industry standards and qualifies you to sit for national certification examinations, including the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), RMA, or NCMA. Furthermore, it is crucial to confirm that the program actively prepares you for these certification exams and provides adequate resources to aid in your exam preparation.

Curriculum and Course Content

A well-rounded online medical assistant program will feature a balanced curriculum that encompasses both clinical and administrative skills. This includes training in clinical areas such as phlebotomy, EKG, and patient care, as well as administrative aspects like medical billing, coding, and the use of electronic health records. To ensure you gain practical, real-world experience, programs should offer opportunities for hands-on learning through externships, in-person laboratory sessions, or virtual simulations.

Program Structure and Flexibility

When selecting a program, consider its overall length and how well it aligns with your schedule and commitments. Some online programs offer a self-paced learning environment, allowing you to progress through the material at your speed, while others follow a more structured schedule with either synchronous (live, real-time) or asynchronous (flexible timing) classes. Additionally, it is important to check if the program requires any mandatory on-campus attendance for laboratory work or examinations and to determine the location and availability of externship placements.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online medical assistant program?

Graduates of an online medical assistant program have a wide range of career paths available, both within clinical care and in broader healthcare roles. Here’s an overview of the most common and promising medical assistant fields:

Entry-Level Career Options

• Medical Assistant: The primary role for graduates is working as a medical assistant in various settings such as hospitals, physicians’ offices, outpatient clinics, community health centers, nursing care facilities, schools, and medical laboratories. Responsibilities typically include both clinical tasks (taking vitals, assisting with exams, administering medications) and administrative duties (scheduling, billing, patient records).
• Front Desk Receptionist/Medical Office Assistant: Many graduates start in administrative roles, handling patient check-ins, scheduling, insurance verification, and office management.
• Clinical Assistant: Some positions focus more on supporting physicians during procedures, preparing exam rooms, and documenting patient information.

Specialized and Alternative Career Paths

• Phlebotomist: With additional certification, medical assistants can specialize in drawing blood and performing laboratory tests.
• Medical Claims Examiner or Medical Records Specialist: These roles focus on processing insurance claims or managing patient health records, often in hospitals or insurance companies.
• Health Information Technician: Medical assistants with strong administrative skills can transition into managing digital health records and data.

Advancement Opportunities

With experience and further education, medical assistants can advance to higher roles, such as:

• Office Manager, Billing Manager, or Practice Manager: Medical assistants often get promoted to supervisory or management positions within healthcare offices, overseeing staff and operations.
• Healthcare Manager or Administrator: Additional degrees or certifications can lead to broader management roles within hospitals or healthcare organizations.
• Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Building on their medical assistant experience, many individuals choose to advance their careers by pursuing nursing degrees, often exploring the difference between LPN and RN to determine the best educational path and leveraging any transferable credits they've already earned.
• Physician Assistant (PA): With further education and training, some medical assistants become physician assistants, taking on more advanced clinical responsibilities.

• Medical Assistant Instructor: Experienced medical assistants may teach in training programs, sharing their expertise with new students.

What additional certifications can further enhance career prospects?

As the healthcare industry evolves, targeted supplementary certifications can distinguish candidates by providing specialized skills that go beyond core medical assistant training. Advanced credentials such as phlebotomy, EKG operation, and expertise in administrative functions have become increasingly valuable in today's competitive market. In particular, pursuing medical coding accredited online programs equips graduates with proficiency in digital record management, insurance processes, and compliance standards. These additional certifications not only broaden career opportunities but also support ongoing professional growth, ensuring that graduates remain adaptive to technological innovations and evolving regulatory requirements.

What is the job market for graduates with an online medical assistant degree?

The job market for medical assistants is very promising. Employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 15% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to create approximately 119,800 job openings each year, on average, over the next decade.

The increasing demand for medical assistants is largely driven by the aging baby-boom population. Older individuals typically require more healthcare services, which will lead to a greater need for medical assistants to handle routine administrative and clinical tasks in physicians' offices and other primary care settings.

Want to compare between med tech vs medical assistant salary? Hop into our related article.

Meanwhile, the chart below shows the largest employers of medical assistants in 2023:

Other Things You Should Know About Medical Assistant Classes Online With Financial Aid 

What is the fastest medical assistant program online? 

The fastest online medical assistant programs are accelerated, self-paced courses that can be completed in as little as six to eight weeks. These programs typically combine online coursework with required clinical hours or externships, which may need to be arranged locally. While six-week programs exist, most students finish in four to six months due to clinical requirements. These fast-track options provide flexibility but still require dedication to meet both academic and hands-on training components. 

What is the highest-paying medical assistant specialty? 

The highest-paying medical assistant specialty is podiatry, with average annual earnings of about $57,000. Other high-paying specialties include ophthalmology ($50,000), fertility clinics, cardiology, aesthetics, and dermatology. These specialties often require additional training or certification and involve assisting with specialized procedures or patient care unique to the field. 

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. 

What is the best medical assistant exam? 

The best medical assistant exam is widely considered to be the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam, offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). This exam is nationally recognized, requires completion of an accredited program, and is often preferred by employers for its rigorous standards and broad acceptance in the healthcare industry. 

References: 

• Hanson, M. (2024, August 31). Cost of Online Education vs. Traditional Education. https://educationdata.org/cost-of-online-education-vs-traditional-education
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Medical Assistants. Occupational Outlook Handbook.  https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm
• Zippia. (2025, January 8). What Is A Medical Assistant, And How To Become One. https://www.zippia.com/medical-assistant-jobs
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). Medical Assistant Salary. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Medical-Assistant-Salary#Yearly
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). What Is the Average Medical Assistant Salary by State https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/What-Is-the-Average-Medical-Assistant-Salary-by-State