Best Online Medical Assistant Programs for 2025
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
To say that the healthcare industry is continuously expanding would be an understatement. With technological advancements, an aging population, and a growing demand for quality healthcare services, the industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace. This rapid growth has led to a surge in demand for skilled professionals, such as medical assistants, who play a vital role in both clinical and administrative healthcare settings.
As healthcare facilities work to provide efficient and patient-centered care, medical assistants have become indispensable team members. As a result, proper training is essential, and online medical assistant programs have emerged as a game-changing solution for those looking to enter the field. In this guide, I’ll explore the best online medical assistant programs for 2025 to help you choose the right one to begin your journey toward a rewarding healthcare career.
What are the benefits of pursuing an online medical assistant program?
- Online medical assistant programs allow you to study at your own pace and fit coursework into your schedule.
- Job demand for medical assistants is rising, with an average of 119,800 job openings per year (BLS, 2024).
- Medical assisting is a lucrative career, with annual salaries ranging from $35,871 to $51,579 (Salary.com).
What can I expect from online medical assistant programs?
Online medical assistant programs provide comprehensive training in both administrative and clinical aspects of healthcare. These programs typically include:
- Flexible Learning Formats: Most programs offer self-paced or structured coursework, allowing students to complete assignments and attend virtual lectures at their convenience. Some may also include live sessions with instructors for additional support.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Coursework covers essential topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, patient care, medical billing and coding, electronic health records (EHR), and clinical procedures like administering injections and taking vital signs.
- Hands-On Training Requirements: While most coursework is completed online, many programs require in-person clinical training or externships at healthcare facilities to ensure students gain real-world experience.
- Certification Preparation: Reputable programs prepare students for national certification exams, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), which can enhance job prospects and earning potential.
- Career Support: Many programs offer job placement assistance, resume-building workshops, and interview preparation to help graduates transition into the workforce successfully.
Where can I work with an online medical assistant degree?
An online medical assistant degree provides a flexible and rewarding career path in the ever-growing healthcare industry. Thanks to their well-rounded skills, medical assistants are equipped to work in diverse work settings, including:
- Hospitals: Medical assistants in hospitals support doctors and nurses by taking preliminary patient assessments and handling administrative tasks such as scheduling and medical data management.
- Physician’s Offices and Clinics: Many medical assistants work in private practices, urgent care centers, or specialty clinics, performing both front-office duties (like patient check-ins and insurance verification) and clinical tasks (such as drawing blood and assisting with exams).
- Outpatient Care Centers: These facilities provide diagnostic, preventive, and rehabilitation services without requiring overnight stays. Medical assistants help with patient intake, medical histories, and coordinating care.
- Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation Facilities: Nursing homes and rehabilitation centers employ medical assistants to assist healthcare professionals with patient monitoring, medication administration, and maintaining medical records.
- Telehealth and Remote Healthcare Services: As virtual healthcare expands, some medical assistants work in telehealth roles, helping coordinate online patient visits, managing electronic health records (EHR), and providing virtual support to physicians and patients.
- Specialty Practices: Medical assistants can also work in specialized fields such as dermatology, cardiology, pediatrics, or obstetrics, where they perform specific procedures relevant to the specialty.
How much can I earn after completing an online medical assistant program?
One of the key benefits of becoming a medical assistant is the strong job outlook and competitive salary potential. Earnings can vary based on factors such as experience, location, certification, and the type of healthcare facility where you work. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), here’s a breakdown of potential salaries after completing an online medical assistant program:
- Medical assistants in outpatient care centers earn a median annual wage of $46,090, making it one of the highest-paying medical sectors.
- Those employed in hospitals (including state, local, and private institutions) earn a median salary of $44,350.
- Medical assistants working in physicians’ offices earn an average annual salary of $40,670.
- Those in offices of other health practitioners — such as chiropractors and optometrists — earn a median annual wage of $36,480.
Additionally, earning professional MA certifications — such as Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) — can enhance job prospects and increase earning potential.
Table of Contents
- List of the Best Universities for Online Medical Assistant Programs for 2025
- How long does it take to complete an online medical assistant program?
- How does an online medical assistant program compare to an on-campus program?
- What is the average cost of an online medical assistant program?
- What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online medical assistant program?
- What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online medical assistant program?
- What courses are typically in an online medical assistant program?
- What types of specializations are available in online medical assistant programs?
- Are online medical assistant programs accredited?
- What challenges should I expect in online medical assistant programs?
- How can networking opportunities in an online medical assistant program boost career growth?
- How do online medical assistant programs support job placement and career advancement?
- Can online medical assistant programs lead to advanced administrative roles?
- How do online medical assistant programs maintain an industry-relevant curriculum?
- How to choose the best online medical assistant program?
- What career paths are available for graduates of online medical assistant programs?
- What is the job market for graduates with an online medical assistant?
- Other Things You Should Know About Online Medical Assistant Programs
List of the Best Universities for Online Medical Assistant Degree Programs for 2025
How do we rank schools?
Choosing a school to pursue your degree is a big, long-term commitment that could change the course of your life. That’s why our ranking was carefully prepared by Research.com’s team of experts to provide students with data-driven insights and transparent information. Our methodology evaluates factors such as program quality, affordability, student outcomes, and institutional reputation. You can find a detailed breakdown of our ranking process in our methodology section.
To ensure accuracy, we rely on reputable sources, including the IPEDS database, Peterson’s database (including their Distance Learning Licensed Data Set), the College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics. By analyzing this data, we aim to help students make informed decisions and choose the best online medical assistant program for their goals.
Here’s our curated list of the top universities that offer the best online medical assistant programs:
1. University of Providence
The University of Providence’s Medical Assistant Certificate Program combines online coursework and hands-on training through in-person skill labs. These labs take place at designated locations in California, Montana, and Oregon, requiring students to attend select weekend sessions. Some travel may be necessary to fulfill this requirement. It prepares students for national certification exams like the National Healthcareer Association Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (NHA-CCMA), the National Center for Competency Testing National Certified Medical Assistant (NCCT-NCMA), and the American Medical Certification Association Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (AMCA-CCMA).
- Program Length: 10 months
- Tracks/Concentrations: General medical assisting
- Estimated Total Cost: Approximately $9,571
- Required Credits to Graduate: 16 credits
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
2. Mercy College of Health Sciences
Mercy College of Health Sciences’ Medical Assisting Program provides a fully online coursework experience, giving students the flexibility to learn at their own pace. In addition to the virtual curriculum, students participate in two intensive six-hour skill boot camps led by an approved instructor to develop hands-on expertise. Additionally, the program includes a 160-hour in-person clinical practicum, equivalent to four 40-hour work weeks, ensuring real-world training in a healthcare setting.
- Program Length: One year
- Tracks/Concentrations: General medical assisting
- Estimated Total Cost: $10,716
- Required Credits to Graduate: 25 credits
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
3. Keiser University
Keiser University’s Online Medical Assisting Science Degree equips students with the essential skills needed to handle a range of clinical responsibilities through a 60-credit-hour associate degree program. These include recording patient histories, checking vital signs, assisting doctors during exams, administering injections under physician supervision, performing venipuncture, conducting CLIA-waived lab tests, and operating electrocardiograms (ECG) to monitor heart activity.
- Program Length: Approximately 20 months
- Tracks/Concentrations: General medical assisting
- Estimated Total Cost: Not specified
- Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credits
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
4. Western Texas College
Western Texas College’s Medical Assistant Program covers both administrative and clinical tasks, including scheduling appointments, updating medical records, processing insurance forms, and preparing examination rooms. Students also learn to take medical histories, measure vital signs, collect lab specimens, assist with physical exams, and administer injections and medications under supervision.
- Program Length: Not specified
- Tracks/Concentrations: General medical assisting
- Estimated Total Cost: $3,300–$10,480
- Required Credits to Graduate: Not specified
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
5. Northwood Technical College
Northwood Technical College’s Medical Assistant Program trains students to manage medical office tasks, provide patient care while adhering to regulations and policies, perform essential laboratory procedures, and maintain professionalism in clinical settings. Additionally, students are trained in safety protocols and emergency response practices to ensure high-quality patient care.
- Program Length: One year
- Tracks/Concentrations: General medical assisting
- Estimated Total Cost: $5,537
- Required Credits to Graduate: 32 credits
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
How long does it take to complete an online medical assistant program?
With approximately 119,800 medical assistant job openings projected each year over the next decade, the demand for trained medical assistants continues to grow. Many of these opportunities arise as workers transition to new careers or retire, making it an excellent time to enter the field. Plus, with flexible program options, students can find a schedule that fits their lifestyle and career goals.
- An accelerated medical assistant program can be completed in as little as six weeks, making it possible to enter the workforce quickly.
- Many programs allow up to six months for completion, providing students with the flexibility to study at their own pace while managing other responsibilities.
This adaptability ensures that aspiring medical assistants can find a program that fits their schedule while still receiving the comprehensive training needed for success in the field.
How does an online medical assistant program compare to an on-campus program?
Choosing between an online and on-campus medical assistant program depends on your learning style, schedule, and career goals. Both options provide essential training, but they differ in flexibility, interaction, and hands-on learning. Here’s how they compare:
- Online Medical Assistant Programs: These are some of the most ideal online degrees for working adults, as they allow you to complete coursework remotely while balancing work and personal commitments — all between six weeks and six months. While most theoretical learning is done virtually, students still complete in-person clinical training at designated healthcare facilities.
- On-Campus Medical Assistant Programs: Ideal for students who prefer structured learning, on-campus programs offer face-to-face instruction and hands-on training in a classroom and lab setting. These programs follow a set schedule and often provide direct access to faculty for immediate feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between an online and on-campus medical assistant program comes down to your personal learning preferences and lifestyle. If flexibility and self-paced study fit your needs, an online program may be the best option. However, if you thrive in a structured environment with real-time interaction, an on-campus program can provide the hands-on experience and direct mentorship that enhance your training. Both paths lead to the same goal — becoming a skilled medical assistant ready to enter the healthcare field.
What is the average cost of an online medical assistant program?
The average cost of medical assistant programs from in-state public universities is $4,187 (Data USA, n.d.), while online schools can go as low as $65 per month. Moreover, they offer flexible payment plans, scholarships, and financial aid options, making them a cost-effective choice for students seeking a career in healthcare — whether you’re transitioning from medical assistant to LPN or focusing on the administrative side of the field.
On the other hand, on-campus medical assistant programs come with additional expenses, including books for $750, scrubs and medical tools such as a stethoscope and pulse oximeter for $300, and the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) exam fee for $90 (Oregon Coast Community College, n.d.). For a more detailed breakdown, here’s a table outlining the costs of a medical assistant program:
Estimated Cost of a Medical Assistant Degree by Institution Type
Sources: Data USA, n.d.; Penn Foster. (n.d.)
What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online medical assistant program?
Many accredited online medical assistant programs qualify for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal assistance. Here are some federal aid options you can explore to offset your school expenses:
- Pell Grants: Need-based grants that do not require repayment for undergraduate students. To qualify, students must enroll in at least one credit per term, maintain good academic standing, and demonstrate financial need per FAFSA guidelines.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG): Limited additional grants available on a first-come, first-served basis. To qualify, students must be enrolled at least half-time in an undergraduate degree program and demonstrate exceptional financial need per FAFSA guidelines.
- Direct Subsidized Loans: Low-interest federal loans for students with financial need, where the government covers interest while the student is in school. Available to undergraduate students enrolled at least half-time.
- Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Federal loans that accrue interest from the time they are disbursed. Available to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at least half-time, regardless of financial need.
- Federal Work-Study Program: Provides part-time employment opportunities for students to help cover education expenses. To qualify, students must demonstrate financial need, be enrolled at least half-time, and meet FAFSA eligibility requirements.
Additionally, students considering careers in healthcare may want to research nursing salary by state, as it varies significantly across regions, which could impact your financial goals and help plan your career path accordingly.
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online medical assistant program?
Before enrolling in an online medical assistant program, students must meet certain prerequisites to ensure they are prepared for the coursework and clinical training. Every type of institution has its own requirements, whether they’re private universities or non profit online colleges. However, some of the most common prerequisites include:
- Educational Requirements: Most programs require a high school diploma or GED. Some may also ask for proof of coursework in subjects like biology or health sciences.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must typically be at least 18 years old at the time of enrollment or by the time they start clinical training.
- Technical Requirements: Since coursework is online, students need a reliable internet connection, a computer, and sometimes specific software to complete assignments and access virtual learning materials.
- Background Check and Drug Screening: While this is completely the prerogative of the online school, some programs (particularly those with clinical externships) may require a background check and drug screening to meet healthcare facility regulations.
- CPR Certification: Some schools may require students to obtain Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification before beginning clinical training.
What courses are typically in an online medical assistant program?
Online medical assistant programs offer a well-rounded curriculum that prepares students for both administrative and clinical responsibilities in today's healthcare ecosystem. While course offerings vary by institution, most programs cover essential topics such as:
- Medical Terminology: Introduces students to the specialized language used in healthcare. It covers key medical terms related to anatomy, physiology, diseases, and procedures.
- Anatomy and Physiology: Trains students to learn about the structure and function of the human body. Topics include organ systems, their interactions, and common medical conditions.
- Medical Law and Ethics: Covers legal and ethical responsibilities in healthcare. Students explore topics like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations, patient confidentiality, and professional conduct.
- Administrative Procedures: Helps students develop essential office skills used in medical settings. The course covers scheduling, medical billing, insurance processing, and electronic health records.
- Clinical Procedures: Focuses on hands-on patient care techniques, teaching students how to measure vital signs, assist with exams, and administer medications..
- Phlebotomy and Laboratory Techniques: Equips students with an understanding of blood collection, specimen handling, basic diagnostic testing, and infection control.
- Pharmacology Basics: Provides an introduction to medications, dosages, and safe administration practices. If you plan to use medical assisting as a stepping stone to become a pharmacist, you may explore our list of online pharmacy schools.
- First Aid and CPR: Trains students in emergency response techniques used in healthcare settings. The course also covers CPR, wound care, and basic life support skills.
- Medical Assistant Externship or Practicum: Covers hands-on training that allows students to apply their knowledge in a real healthcare setting. It provides valuable experience working with patients and medical professionals.
Additionally, students may find that medical assisting provides opportunities for medical jobs no degree. If you’re looking to start a career in healthcare without a formal degree, many entry-level medical positions are available where certification or training in specific skills, like those learned in a medical assistant program, can be enough to qualify for the role.
What types of specializations are available in online medical assistant programs?
According to ZipRecruiter (n.d.), the highest-paid medical assistants, such as those working in internal medicine, earn up to $86,250 a year. If you’re pursuing an online medical assistant program with the goal of building a lucrative career, keep in mind that choosing the right specialization is crucial:
- Clinical Medical Assisting: Emphasizes hands-on patient care. Students learn skills such as taking vital signs, administering injections, assisting with minor procedures, and performing basic laboratory tests.
- Administrative Medical Assisting: Focuses on the business side of healthcare. It includes courses on medical billing and coding, insurance claims, electronic health records, and office management.
- Phlebotomy: Trains students in blood collection techniques. It covers venipuncture, specimen handling, infection control, and laboratory safety.
- EKG/ECG Technician: Equips students with the skills to perform and interpret electrocardiograms (EKGs). The training includes identifying heart rhythms, setting up EKG equipment, and working alongside cardiology teams.
- Pediatric Medical Assisting: Focuses on providing care to children and adolescents. It covers pediatric vital signs, growth and development assessments, and vaccinations.
- Geriatric Medical Assisting: Trains students to assist and care for elderly patients. Topics include chronic disease management, mobility assistance, and communication strategies for working with older adults.
- Internal Medicine Assisting: Prepares students to support physicians in treating adult patients with complex or chronic conditions. It covers diagnostic procedures, patient education, and assisting with routine and specialized internal medicine exams.
- Chiropractic Medical Assisting: Prepares students to assist in chiropractic offices. It includes training in spinal adjustments, therapeutic exercises, and patient education on musculoskeletal health.
For those interested in more patient-facing roles, obtaining CNA certification nursing assistant requirements could be a beneficial path. While this certification is specifically for nursing assistants, many medical assistant programs offer overlapping skills that could complement your career goals, especially if you want to work in long-term care or hospitals.
Are online medical assistant programs accredited?
Accreditation ensures that an online medical assistant program meets established quality standards and that its curriculum aligns with industry requirements. Verified accreditation not only boosts employer confidence but also impacts eligibility for federal aid and professional certifications. Prospective students should check accreditation details through recognized bodies and official resources to confirm that the program satisfies both educational and clinical practicum criteria. Additionally, assessing program value—such as comparing program fees with factors like medical billing and coding certification cost—can facilitate a well-informed decision.
What challenges should I expect in online medical assistant programs?
Online medical assistant programs offer flexibility but come with distinct challenges that prospective students should address. Key obstacles include managing self-paced learning, ensuring reliable access to clinical externships, and overcoming technology-related issues. Students may find it challenging to coordinate hands-on training due to variable placement opportunities and limited real-time instructor support.
Additionally, balancing coursework with professional or personal commitments requires strong time management and self-discipline. Evaluating the quality of digital resources, virtual lab components, and post-training career support is crucial to avoid potential gaps in skill acquisition. For specific roles that require specialized clinical training, Can you become an ultrasound tech online? offers targeted insights into program structures that effectively combine online learning with essential hands-on experience.
How can networking opportunities in an online medical assistant program boost career growth?
Online medical assistant programs often extend beyond core clinical and administrative training by fostering robust networking and mentorship opportunities. These programs frequently integrate virtual meetups, collaborative projects, and live webinars that connect students with industry professionals and alumni. Such interactions can lead to valuable career insights, job leads, and ongoing professional guidance. Furthermore, some platforms highlight adjacent certifications—like those offered by the best school for medical coding—which can complement your medical assistant training and enhance your marketability in evolving healthcare settings.
How do online medical assistant programs support job placement and career advancement?
Many online medical assistant programs integrate robust career support services to facilitate a seamless transition into the healthcare workforce. These services often include personalized resume reviews, interview preparation, and direct connections with industry employers. Institutions that maintain strong relationships with local healthcare facilities and professional organizations can offer exclusive internship placements and job fairs, giving students a strategic advantage when entering competitive markets. Prospective students should research each program’s career outcomes and networking opportunities to ensure they align with their professional goals. Additionally, for comparisons on overall program affordability and value in the broader healthcare education landscape, consider the cheapest online public health degree in USA.
Can online medical assistant programs lead to advanced administrative roles?
Graduates with an online medical assistant credential can leverage their clinical and administrative skills to transition into supervisory and managerial positions within healthcare settings. Many programs now integrate modules that focus on healthcare management principles, regulatory compliance, and digital health innovations to prepare students for evolving leadership responsibilities. This additional training enables candidates to bridge the gap between frontline care and administrative operations, positioning them for competitive leadership opportunities and even roles within the highest paying jobs in healthcare administration sector.
How do online medical assistant programs maintain an industry-relevant curriculum?
Leading online medical assistant programs continuously update their curricula through regular feedback from healthcare professionals and advisory boards. They incorporate advanced simulation tools, virtual lab exercises, and real-time case studies to mirror current clinical practices and emerging technologies. These programs work closely with local healthcare organizations, ensuring that course content meets evolving regulatory standards and job market expectations. This dynamic approach not only sharpens practical skills but also promotes interdisciplinary learning—comparable to an accelerated biology online degree—that emphasizes the importance of foundational science in patient care.
How to choose the best online medical assistant program?
Choosing the right online program isn’t just about convenience; it’s about ensuring you receive the proper education and hands-on experience needed to succeed in a real-world medical setting. Why? Because every action you take directly impacts patient care. With patient health on the line, selecting a reputable and comprehensive program is essential.
- Accreditation: Choose a program accredited by recognized organizations like the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) to ensure credibility and eligibility for certification exams.
- Curriculum: Look for a well-rounded curriculum that covers both administrative and clinical skills, including hands-on training or externships for real-world experience.
- Flexibility and Format: Ensure the program offers a schedule that fits your lifestyle and learning preferences, especially if you need to balance work or other commitments.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition rates and explore financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, or payment plans.
- Certification Preparation: A strong program should prepare students for industry-recognized certifications like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), which enhance job prospects.
- Student Support Services: Consider programs that provide academic advising, career services, and technical support to help you succeed.
If you’re also interested in administrative roles, exploring a career in healthcare information systems may be worth considering. The information systems manager career guide provides insights into roles that blend technology and healthcare administration, offering higher-paying opportunities for those interested in managing health IT systems and data analysis.
What career paths are available for graduates of online medical assistant programs?
As of 2023, over 783,900 medical assistants are employed across the U.S. (BLS, 2024), highlighting the strong demand for this profession. Graduating from an online medical assistant program opens the door to diverse career opportunities in healthcare. Some common career paths include:
- Clinical Medical Assistant: Works alongside physicians and nurses, assisting with patient examinations, administering injections, and performing basic lab tests.
- Administrative Medical Assistant: Focuses on managing medical records, scheduling appointments, handling billing, and ensuring the smooth operation of a healthcare office.
- Phlebotomy Technician: Specializes in drawing blood for diagnostic tests, transfusions, or donations, often working in hospitals, laboratories, or blood banks.
- EKG Technician: Conducts electrocardiograms (EKGs) to monitor heart activity and assist cardiologists in diagnosing cardiovascular conditions.
- Medical Billing and Coding Specialist: Translates medical procedures and diagnoses into standardized codes for insurance claims and billing, ensuring accurate healthcare reimbursement.
- Internal Medicine Assistant: Supports physicians in internal medicine practices by managing patient care for chronic conditions, conducting routine tests, and assisting with examinations.
- Chiropractic Assistant: Helps chiropractors with patient care, including therapy sessions, exercise instruction, and front-office tasks.
- Ophthalmic or Optometric Assistant: Works in eye care settings, conducting vision tests, assisting with contact lens fittings, and handling patient records.
- Surgical Technician Assistant: Assists in preparing operating rooms, sterilizing instruments, and supporting surgeons during procedures.
Moreover, it’s not uncommon for MAs to pursue further education to advance their careers, going from medical assistant to RN, doctor, or healthcare specialist. Additional certifications and degrees open doors to higher-paying roles, increased responsibilities, and greater opportunities for specialization within the medical field.
What is the job market for graduates with an online medical assistant?
The need for medical assistants is rising as healthcare facilities expand to meet the demands of an aging population. In fact, employment in this field is expected to increase by 15% between 2023 and 2033, significantly outpacing the average job growth rate (BLS, 2024).
Graduates of online medical assistant programs have diverse employment opportunities in hospitals, physician offices, outpatient clinics, and specialized healthcare settings. The flexibility of online training allows students to gain essential skills while managing other commitments, making it a practical pathway into the healthcare field. With recognized certifications and hands-on experience, medical assistants can secure stable and fulfilling careers in a rapidly growing industry.
The chart below provides a breakdown of the industries with the highest levels of employment for medical assistants, including physician offices (430,490), hospitals (115,850), and outpatient care centers (70,470):
Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Medical Assistant Degree
- "The flexibility of an online medical assistant program made it possible for me to balance my studies with a full-time job and family responsibilities. The coursework was engaging, and the hands-on training sessions prepared me for real-world clinical tasks. Now, I’m working in a busy healthcare clinic, and I couldn’t be happier with my career path!" – Adrienne
- "Studying online gave me the opportunity to learn at my own pace while still receiving top-notch training. The program’s interactive lessons and virtual support made me feel connected, and the in-person clinical practicum gave me the confidence to work with patients. I’m now in a role I love, making a difference every day." – Nathan
- "I was worried that an online program wouldn’t provide enough hands-on experience, but the combination of skill labs and clinical practice proved me wrong. The convenience of online learning allowed me to transition into healthcare without disrupting my daily life. Enrolling in this program was the best decision I ever made!" – Marla
Key Findings
- There are approximately 119,800 medical assistant job openings projected each year over the next decade.
- The highest-paid medical assistants, such as those working in internal medicine, earn up to $86,250 a year.
- As of 2023, over 783,900 medical assistants are employed across the U.S.
- Employment in this field is expected to increase by 15% between 2023 and 2033, significantly outpacing the average job growth rate.
- The top employment sector for medical assistants is physician offices, currently with an MA workforce of 430,490.
Other Things You Should Know About Online Medical Assistant Programs
What is the most recognized medical assistant certification?
The National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) certification, offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), is a well-recognized credential for medical assistants. It demonstrates proficiency in both clinical and administrative tasks, helping professionals stand out in the job market. To earn the NCMA, candidates must meet eligibility requirements, including education and work experience, and pass a comprehensive exam covering essential medical assisting skills.
Can I become a certified medical assistant with an online program?
Yes, you can become a certified medical assistant through an online program, provided it meets the necessary certification requirements. Many online programs are designed to prepare students for industry-recognized certification exams, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) credential from the American Medical Technologists (AMT).
Do online medical assistant programs include hands-on training?
Yes, most online medical assistant programs incorporate hands-on training through clinical externships or in-person lab components. Since medical assistants perform a mix of clinical and administrative duties, practical experience is essential to ensure competency in real-world healthcare settings. Many programs partner with local hospitals, clinics, or physician's offices to provide students with supervised externships where they can practice vital skills like taking patient vital signs, administering injections, performing EKGs, and assisting with minor medical procedures. Some programs may also require students to complete certain lab tasks in-person at designated training centers.
Will I need to attend any in-person classes for online medical assistant programs?
Most online medical assistant programs allow students to complete lectures, assignments, and exams entirely remotely, providing flexibility for those balancing work or personal commitments. However, many programs include mandatory in-person components, such as externships or lab training, at a local healthcare facility. These hands-on experiences are crucial for developing essential clinical skills, such as taking vital signs, drawing blood, and administering injections. Additionally, some certification exams require proof of practical training, making in-person experience an important part of a well-rounded education.
References:
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- Oregon Coast Community College. (2022). Medical assistant student curriculum map and costs. Oregoncoast.edu. Retrieved 27 March 2025.
- Penn Foster. (n.d.). Medical assistant associate degree. PennFoster.edu. Retrieved 27 March 2025.
- Salary.com. (n.d.). Medical assistant certified salary. Salary.com. Retrieved 27 March 2025.
- U.S, Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Medical assistants. Bls.gov. Retrieved 27 March 2025.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Occupational employment and wages: Medical assistants. Bls.gov. Retrieved 27 March 2025.
- ZipRecruiter. (n.d.). Medical assistant salary. ZipRecruiter.com. Retrieved 27 March 2025.
