Fastest Online Medical Assistant Associate Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from the fastest online medical assistant associate degree programs?

A medical assistant associate degree is a comprehensive, college-level program that trains you to work in both clinical and administrative roles in healthcare settings. Unlike shorter certificate programs, this degree typically takes 9 to 24 months to complete, depending on whether you choose an accelerated online format. 

Coursework combines essential topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, clinical procedures, and healthcare administration. You’ll also complete a supervised externship to gain real-world experience working with patients. 

Accredited programs prepare you to sit for certification exams like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), which can significantly boost your job prospects and earning potential. Online programs make it possible to earn your degree flexibly and quickly without sacrificing quality. Overall, this path offers a strong foundation for stable, rewarding employment in the growing healthcare field.

Where can I work with the fastest online medical assistant associate degree programs?

Graduates of a medical assistant associate degree program typically work in a variety of outpatient healthcare settings where routine clinical and administrative support is needed. The most common workplace is a physician’s office, where medical assistants help with patient intake, vitals, scheduling, and electronic health records. They’re also found in specialty practices like cardiology, dermatology, pediatrics, or orthopedics, where they may assist with more focused procedures.

Other common employers include urgent care centers, outpatient clinics, and community health organizations that serve large and diverse patient populations.

Beyond traditional clinics, some medical assistants work in broader healthcare and administrative environments. These may include:

• Hospitals (particularly outpatient departments or same-day surgery units)
• Chiropractic and alternative medicine offices
• Insurance companies (in support or claims roles)
• Medical billing and coding firm
• Clinical research centers (assisting with patient data collection and support)

This versatility makes the degree a flexible entry point into the healthcare industry.

How much can I make with the fastest online medical assistant associate degree programs?

Graduates of a medical assistant associate degree program typically earn a competitive salary that reflects both their education and certification. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical assistants in 2023 was about $42,000.

Entry-level positions often start around $35,000 to $37,000 per year, depending on your location, employer, and whether you have credentials like the CMA or RMA. Medical assistants working in outpatient care centers and specialty practices generally earn more than those in primary care offices.

With experience and additional certifications, salaries can increase over time. The top 10% of medical assistants earn over $55,000 annually, especially in metropolitan areas with higher demand. Those who transition into supervisory, billing, or medical office management roles often see additional pay raises.

An associate degree can also help you qualify for better benefits packages, including healthcare coverage, retirement plans, and paid time off, which adds value to your total compensation.

Fastest Online Medical Assistant Associate Degree Programs for 2025

1. Dakota College at Bottineau

Dakota College at Bottineau offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Medical Assistant program, which can be completed entirely online. This program prepares students for a versatile role in healthcare, covering both clinical and administrative duties. Students can complete the program in as little as one year.

It targets individuals seeking to become Registered Medical Assistants (RMA) through American Medical Technologists (AMT) or National Certified Medical Assistants (NCMA) through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), with delivery primarily through online coursework culminating in a 160-hour internship.

• Program Length: 1 year
• Tracks/Concentrations: General Medical Assistant AAS degree
• Cost per Credit: $139
• Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

2. Herzing University

Herzing University provides an online Associate of Science in Medical Assisting program designed for accelerated completion, with many courses taking 8 weeks. The program blends 100% online didactic courses with required hands-on training through clinical labs and an 8-week, 180-hour externship.

It targets individuals seeking entry-level medical assistant positions and aims to provide career-focused curriculum to prepare graduates for success in the field, with flexible scheduling to accommodate busy, non-traditional students.

• Program Length: 20 months, accelerated options with 8-week courses
• Tracks/Concentrations: Associate of Science in Medical Assisting Services
• Cost per Credit: $515 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credits
• Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Keiser University

Keiser University offers an Associate of Science degree in Medical Assisting Science entirely online, preparing students for both clinical and administrative duties in healthcare settings. This program is designed to develop professional skills for employment and to prepare students to sit for the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) credentialing examination.

The program requires 60 credit hours and incorporates flexible scheduling, small classes, and expert faculty support, with an externship component for hands-on experience.

• Program Length: 12 to 18 months.
• Tracks/Concentrations: Medical Assisting Science
• Cost per Credit: Total program cost is around $26,956
• Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credit hours
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

4. Penn Foster

Penn Foster provides an online Medical Assistant Associate Degree program that allows students to study at their own pace, making it a flexible option for accelerated learning. The program focuses on preparing students for administrative and clinical duties in outpatient settings, including medical terminology, coding, and transcription, and culminates in a real-world externship.

It targets individuals seeking to enter the growing medical assistant field and prepares them for various industry certifications like the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) or Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA).

• Program Length: 6 months per semester (fast track)
• Tracks/Concentrations: General Medical Assistant Associate Degree
• Cost per Credit: $109 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credits
• Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).

5. Ross College (Ross Education)

Ross College offers an online Associate of Applied Science degree in Medical Assisting with an accelerated option that can be completed in 40 weeks (or a standard 55 weeks). This program prepares students in medical assisting, pharmacology, healthcare administration, and medical law and ethics, with options for concentrations in Electronic Medical Records, Patient Experience, Medical Scribe, or General.

The program is delivered through online instruction, fostering interpersonal skills through online collaboration and discussion.

• Program Length: 40 weeks (accelerated online)
• Tracks/Concentrations: The AAS in Medical Assisting program can include concentrations such as Electronic Medical Records, Patient Experience, Medical Scribe, or General.
• Cost per Credit: Total program cost is around $15,990 for their certificate program
• Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credits
• Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

6. Liberty University

Liberty University offers a 100% online Associate of Applied Science in Medical Office Administration with flexible online courses. The program is designed to provide skills relevant to various administrative positions in medical settings, including medical billing and coding, scheduling, and record management, while emphasizing ethical and legal considerations.

It targets individuals seeking to enter or advance in medical office roles, with an optional 160-hour externship for practical experience.

• Program Length: Less than 2 years for a 60-credit associate degree
• Tracks/Concentrations: Associate of Applied Science in Medical Office Administration
• Cost per Credit: Starts at $390 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credit hours
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

7. South University

South University offers an online Associate of Science in Medical Assisting program with a competency-based education approach, emphasizing mastery of both clinical and administrative skills. The program requires 92 quarter credits and culminates in a required 160-hour, unpaid, supervised practicum at a local medical practice during the final quarter.

It targets students looking to enter the medical assisting profession, validating competencies through tests, performance objectives, and the clinical externship.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Associate of Science in Medical Assisting
• Cost per Credit: $475
• Required Credits to Graduate: 61 credits
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

8. National American University

National American University offers an online Medical Administrative Assistant Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree designed to prepare students for entry-level administrative positions in healthcare. The program integrates lecture and learning activities covering medical terminology, recordkeeping, billing, and office procedures, with an optional 160-hour virtual practicum.

It targets individuals with or without prior medical work experience, aiming to equip them with the knowledge and skills for efficient medical office operations.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Medical Administrative Assistant (A.A.S.)
• Cost per Credit: $342
• Required Credits to Graduate: 90 credits
• Accreditation: National American University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

9. Northland Community & Technical College

Northland Community & Technical College offers a Medical Assistant (MDA) Associate of Applied Science program, which includes online components for prerequisite courses. It provides comprehensive training in clinical and administrative skills.

The program is delivered through a blend of online coursework, clinical procedure courses with labs, and a 160-hour externship, targeting individuals seeking to become invaluable assets in busy medical offices.

• Program Length: Typically two years for an Associate of Applied Science.
• Tracks/Concentrations: Medical Assistant (MDA) program, with specific prerequisite courses and sequential clinical courses. No distinct "tracks" are listed.
• Cost per Credit: Information not readily available online for the specific MA program; generally varies by in-state/out-of-state residency.
• Required Credits to Graduate: Not explicitly stated online for the AAS in Medical Assistant; associate degrees are commonly 60 credits.
• Accreditation: Northland Community & Technical College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

10. State Fair Community College (SFCC)

State Fair Community College (SFCC) offers an Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting with online classes and one day a week of on-ground skills lab. This blended delivery allows for a flexible yet hands-on approach to learning.

The program prepares students for multi-skilled health professional roles, covering both clinical and administrative duties, and targets individuals seeking certification for employment in various healthcare settings.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting
• Cost per Credit: $129
• Required Credits to Graduate: 61 credit hours
• Accreditation: State Fair Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

How long does it take to complete the fastest online medical assistant associate degree program?

The fastest online medical assistant associate degree program can be completed in about 40 weeks (roughly 9–10 months) when taken in an accelerated format. For example, Ross College offers an accelerated medical assistant program that can be finished in 40 weeks. Penn Foster’s online AAS allows a fast track pace of six months per semester, which means you can complete all four semesters in as little as 12 months.

So, if you are aiming for the absolute fastest path, expect around 9 to 10 months for completion. However, realistically, most students finish between 12 to 18 months, depending on time commitment and externship scheduling. If you are open to earning a certificate, fully online options exist that can be completed in just four to six months. 

How does the fastest online medical assistant associate degree program compare to an on-campus program?

The fastest online medical assistant degree program usually takes 9 to12 months if you enroll full-time in an accelerated format. By contrast, on-campus programs typically last 18 to 24 months, following a traditional semester schedule. The online format is more flexible—you can study at your own pace, often moving quickly through coursework if you have the time and discipline. This can be ideal if you are motivated and need to balance school with work or family or if you’re specifically looking for affordable online medical assistant programs that fit your budget.

However, on-campus programs offer more face-to-face lab practice and direct instructor support. In-person training can help you build hands-on confidence, especially with clinical procedures like taking vitals, drawing blood, and administering injections.

Online programs still include a required externship in a medical office, but you’ll complete most lectures, assignments, and quizzes remotely. In short, online is faster and flexible, but on-campus can provide richer in-person experiences and a more structured routine. Both paths prepare you for the same certifications and entry-level jobs.

What is the average cost of the fastest online medical assistant associate degree program?

The fastest fully online associate degree in medical assisting typically costs around $6,000 to $7,000 in total. For example:

• Penn Foster charges between $6,100–$6,600 for the complete 60-credit program, with a fast-track option that lets you finish in as little as 6 months per semester. This enables students to wrap up in about 12 months depending on pace.
• By comparison, Herzing University lists their 20‑month (non-accelerated) associate program at about $33,080, which is significantly higher.

For accelerated certificate programs, costs can be as low as $1,200–$2,600, but these will not earn you an associate degree and typically lack comprehensive content and accreditation for CMA/RMA certification.  Students aiming to build a broader healthcare foundation may also consider an accelerated online bachelor's degree in public health, which can complement medical assisting skills and open doors to more diverse career options.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in the fastest online medical assistant associate degree program?

Students enrolling in the fastest online medical assistant degree programs have several financial aid options to help cover tuition and fees. One of the most common options is federal financial aid, which includes Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and subsidized or unsubsidized Direct Loans.

To access federal aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet eligibility requirements such as demonstrating financial need and enrolling in an accredited program.

Many schools also offer institutional scholarships or tuition discounts for online students. Some programs, including many medical assistant trade school programs, have payment plans that allow you to spread tuition payments over several months without accruing interest.

If you are working, you may qualify for employer tuition reimbursement or workforce development grants, especially if the training improves your job skills. Additionally, military-connected students often have access to VA education benefits, including the GI Bill, or military spouse career advancement funding. 

The median annual wage for medical assistants was $44,200 in May 2024. The chart below shows the median annual wage for medical assistants, highlighting how earnings compare across the profession. This data helps illustrate the income potential you can expect after completing your degree.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the fastest online medical assistant associate degree program?

The prerequisites for enrolling in the fastest online medical assistant degree program are usually straightforward, but they can vary a bit by school. Most programs keep the entry requirements accessible so more students can qualify. Employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 15% from 2023 to 2033. 

Here are the typical prerequisites you will need to meet:

• You must have a high school diploma or GED. This is the main requirement for admission.
• You may need to provide official transcripts showing proof of graduation.
• Some programs require you to be at least 18 years old by the time you start clinical externship.
• You may need to pass a background check and a drug screening before you begin the externship portion.
• A few schools ask for immunization records, including proof of certain vaccinations like Hepatitis B and MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), especially if you will have patient contact.
• Certain programs may recommend or require you to complete placement tests in reading, writing, or basic math.

Most online associate degree programs do not expect you to have prior healthcare experience. As long as you meet the basic education and documentation requirements, you can usually enroll without difficulty. 

What courses are typically in the fastest online medical assistant associate degree program?

The fastest online medical assistant associate degree programs include a focused mix of general education, clinical training, and administrative coursework. While exact titles vary by school, most medical assistant programs cover similar core subjects designed to prepare you for both front-office responsibilities and hands-on patient care.

Here are the typical courses you will find:

• Medical Terminology: Learning the language used in healthcare settings
• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding body systems and functions
• Pharmacology: Basics of medications, dosages, and safety
• Clinical Procedures: Training in taking vital signs, assisting with exams, and performing basic lab tests
• Medical Office Administration: Scheduling, billing, and using electronic health records
• Medical Law and Ethics: Patient rights, privacy regulations, and professional conduct
• Pathophysiology: Introduction to common diseases and disorders
• Computer Applications in Healthcare: Using software for records and communication
• Healthcare Communication: Professional interaction with patients and colleagues
• Insurance and Billing Procedures: Managing claims and reimbursements
• Externship or Practicum: Hands-on experience in a real medical office or clinic

The chart below outlines the industries that employ the largest numbers of medical assistants. Medical assistants held about 783,900 jobs in 2023, reflecting a strong presence in the healthcare workforce.

The largest employers were physician offices, accounting for 56% of total employment. Reviewing this information can help you understand where most job opportunities are concentrated and which settings may best fit your career goals.  For those aiming to enter the field quickly, exploring the shortest online certificate programs in dental assisting can open up additional opportunities in dental practices, which also employ a steady number of assistants.

What types of specializations are available in the fastest online medical assistant associate degree programs?

Most online medical assistant degree programs focus on preparing you as a well-rounded generalist, so specialization options are somewhat limited compared to bachelor’s degrees or advanced certificates. However, a few accelerated programs and schools do allow you to tailor your training a bit, especially if you plan to learn more about how to become a certified medical assistant and pursue credentials that can boost your job prospects.

Here are some types of specializations or focused tracks you may find in the fastest online associate degree programs:

• Administrative Medical Assisting: Emphasis on front-office duties like scheduling, billing, insurance processing, and electronic health records.
• Clinical Medical Assisting: Focus on direct patient care, including vital signs, specimen collection, injections, and exam assistance.
• Phlebotomy: Additional training in drawing blood and handling lab specimens. Some programs include a phlebotomy skills course or prepare you for certification.
• Medical Billing and Coding: A heavier concentration in coding systems (like ICD-10-CM and CPT), reimbursement procedures, and compliance regulations.
• Pediatric or Geriatric Assisting: A few schools offer elective courses in caring for children or older adults, though these are more common in certificates.

Some students also branch into related dental care roles by choosing the fastest online dental assistant associate's degree, which combines clinical and administrative skills for work in dental offices.  

How do you choose the best among the fastest online medical assistant associate degree programs?

Choosing the best and fastest online medical assistant associate degree program takes some careful comparison. You want a school that is legitimate, accredited, affordable, and truly accelerated. On average, about 119,800 job openings for medical assistants are expected each year over the next decade.

Many of these openings will result from the need to replace workers who retire or change careers or from professionals who advance into related fields through pathways like medical assistant to LPN bridge programs.

Here is a guide to evaluate your options:

1. Check accreditation. Make sure the program is accredited by a recognized body like the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). This matters for financial aid eligibility and for qualifying to sit for the CMA or RMA certification exams.
2. Confirm how fast you can finish. Some schools advertise accelerated programs but still expect 18–24 months of coursework. Look for clear details about course load, term lengths, and any fast-track options. If your goal is the fastest path, choose a program with self-paced or compressed courses you can complete in under 12 months.
3. Review total costs. Calculate tuition, fees, books, and supplies. Compare the cost per credit hour and ask about payment plans or scholarships.
4. Look at externship requirements. Even online programs require in-person clinical hours. Make sure the school helps arrange a local site and is clear about scheduling expectations.
5. Consider support services. Good programs offer tutoring, career counseling, certification exam prep, and help with externship placement.
6. Read reviews and outcomes data. Check graduation rates, certification pass rates, and job placement information.

What career paths are available for graduates of the fastest online medical assistant associate degree programs?

Graduates of the fastest online medical assistant associate degree programs have a variety of career paths in healthcare. You will be prepared for entry-level roles that combine patient care and administrative work.  Some graduates even branch into related healthcare roles, such as respiratory therapy, by enrolling in a fast track online respiratory care therapy associate's degree, which builds on their clinical skills and expands their career opportunities.

Here are some of the most common career options you can pursue:

• Medical Assistant: You’ll work in clinics, physician offices, or outpatient centers taking patient histories, recording vital signs, assisting with exams, scheduling appointments, and handling billing.
• Clinical Medical Assistant: In this role, you spend more time on direct patient care, like drawing blood, giving injections, and preparing exam rooms.
• Administrative Medical Assistant: You focus on the front desk, medical records, insurance claims, and office management tasks.
• Phlebotomy Technician: If your program included extra training in blood collection, you can work in labs or hospitals drawing blood samples.
• Medical Records Specialist: You maintain patient charts, process electronic health records, and ensure compliance with privacy laws.
• Medical Office Manager (with experience): Over time, you could advance into supervising other staff and overseeing office operations.
• Specialty Medical Assistant: You may assist in a specialty practice like pediatrics, cardiology, or dermatology, where you learn additional procedures specific to the field.

Some graduates also choose to continue their education, transferring credits to a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, health sciences, or nursing. Your associate degree gives you a versatile foundation to grow in the medical field while opening doors to certifications like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), which can increase your earning potential as shown in detailed medical assistant salary data by state.

What is the job market like for graduates with the fastest online medical assistant associate degree program?

The job market for graduates with an online medical assistant associate degree is strong and growing steadily. Healthcare services keep expanding, and medical assistants are in high demand across the country.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 14% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than average for all occupations. This growth is driven by several factors: more outpatient care centers, an aging population needing routine care, and expanded access to health insurance.

Graduates of the fastest online programs are just as competitive in the job market as those trained on campus, provided your degree is from an accredited school and includes the required clinical externship. Most employers care that you have the skills, certification eligibility, and hands-on experience.

You can expect the best job prospects in physician offices, outpatient clinics, and specialty practices such as cardiology, orthopedics, and pediatrics. Roles in administrative medical assisting and billing are also steady, especially if you’re comfortable with electronic health records.

Overall, if you complete a reputable program and earn a recognized certification (like CMA or RMA), you should have good opportunities for stable, entry-level employment with room to grow in healthcare.

How Do Fast Online Medical Assistant Programs Enhance Student Support and Career Success?

Fast online medical assistant programs often provide comprehensive support services that extend beyond classroom instruction. Many institutions offer personalized academic advising, virtual tutoring, and dedicated career counseling to help students navigate both academic challenges and transition into professional roles. These services typically include resume workshops, interview preparation, and exclusive networking opportunities with industry professionals, ensuring a smoother entry into the competitive healthcare landscape. Additionally, partnerships with local clinics and healthcare providers facilitate quality externship placements, while some programs integrate career-specific resources such as guidance on enrolling in the most affordable medical billing and coding programs.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Fastest Online Medical Assistant Associate Degree Programs

Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Online Medical Assistant Associate Degree Programs

Do fast online medical assistant degrees offer payment plans?

Yes, many fast online medical assistant associate degree programs offer payment plans to make tuition more manageable. Schools often let you split the total cost into monthly or per-term installments without added interest. Some programs also partner with financing companies to provide extended payment options. Always check with the school’s financial aid office to understand the terms and any fees.

How are clinical skills taught in an online medical assistant degree?

Clinical skills are first introduced through video demonstrations, interactive modules, and virtual simulations. You’ll then practice hands-on techniques during a required externship at an approved local clinic or physician’s office. This in-person training ensures you develop real-world experience before graduation. Some programs also include lab kits shipped to your home for basic practice.

How long does it take to get certified after graduation?

After finishing your associate degree, you can usually schedule your certification exam within a few weeks. Most graduates take about 1–3 months to prepare and sit for the CMA or RMA exam. Once you pass, you receive your certification within a few weeks of scoring. Altogether, you could be fully certified within 2–4 months after graduation.

Can you earn additional certifications while completing your degree?

Yes, you can often pursue extra certifications alongside your associate degree coursework. Many students work toward credentials like Certified Phlebotomy Technician or Basic Life Support (BLS) while enrolled. Some programs even include preparation for specialized exams in billing, coding, or EKG. Be sure to confirm that your school’s curriculum supports these certifications and offers resources to help you qualify.