Best Medical Assistant Schools & Programs in Alaska – How to Become a Medical Assistant in Alaska for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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A medical assistant’s role is to provide administrative and clerical support to physicians and other medical practitioners. Part of their responsibilities include taking patient history and vitals, creating and maintaining patient files, implementing EHR systems, and more. However, performing these tasks requires proficiency and knowledge of health and safety standards.

This is where accredited medical assistant programs come in helpful. They equip students to use medical equipment, take vital signs, collect specimen samples, and support healthcare professionals. Schools that offer medical office administration certificate programs also cater to the growing demand for medical assistants in the United States.

In Alaska, the demand for medical assistants is expected to increase up to 14.61% by 2030 (Alaska Hospital & Healthcare Association, 2022). Some contributing factors to this demand include expanding healthcare services, the aging population, technological advancement, and the expanding scope of practice. Our research team gathered valuable information to help students pursue a low-barrier-entry healthcare career and created a list of medical assistant schools in Alaska.

Best Medical Assistant Schools in Alaska Table of Contents

1. Is medical assisting a good major in Alaska?
2. What are the steps to become a medical assistant in Alaska?
3. Medical Assistant Program Length in Alaska
4. Tuition and Cost of Medical Assistant Schools in Alaska
5. Alaska Schools Offering Medical Assistant Programs for 2025
6. Can advanced certifications elevate your healthcare career?
7. How Do Medical Assistant Programs Address Alaska’s Unique Healthcare Challenges?
8. What to look for in medical assistant schools in Alaska?
9. Can biotechnology trends open additional career avenues in Alaska?
10. Can expanding into medical billing and coding boost your healthcare career?
11. How can transitioning to an LPN role accelerate my career in Alaska?
12. Exploring Career Pathways Beyond Medical Assisting in Alaska
13. How Can Understanding Nursing License Requirements in Alaska Enhance Your Career Prospects?
14. Can additional licensure broaden your healthcare opportunities in Alaska?
15. What Are the Key Considerations for Transitioning from a Medical Assistant to an LVN Role in Alaska?
16. Could Radiology Technician Training Expand My Career Opportunities in Alaska?

Is medical assisting a good major in Alaska?

Alaska is one of the highest-paying states for medical assistants. They earn an average of $49,400 annually, which is 21.4% higher than the national mean annual wage (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). This means entry-level medical assistants may consider relocating to The Last Frontier to increase their income.

Additionally, there is a strong demand for medical assistants in Alaska. The state must employ more than 600 medical assistants yearly (Alaska Hospital & Healthcare Association, 2022). Most new hires are meant to replace retired medical assistants and those who left the profession entirely.

In line with this, the Alaska Hospital & Healthcare Association launched work-based learning opportunities for prospective students of medical assistant schools in Alaska. This initiative exposes them to healthcare careers, builds their knowledge and skills, and connects them to organizations for job placement.

Lastly, being a medical assistant allows students to make a difference in the local community. That is because they are essential in providing quality healthcare to citizens with diverse healthcare needs.

Is being a medical assistant the same as being a physician assistant? Students may wonder, “What is a physician assistant?" They are licensed healthcare providers who completed physician assistant programs in Alaska. They can diagnose and treat patients under the supervision of a physician.

On the other hand, a medical assistant focuses on clinical and administrative tasks. Part of their responsibilities is to ensure a positive and effective patient care experience. Hence, their tasks include recording patient information and medical history, drawing samples for laboratory testing, and helping with billing and insurance claims.

What are the steps to becoming a medical assistant in Alaska?

Students seeking medical assistant jobs in Alaska should consider earning a diploma or degree. While the state does not officially require it, employers often prefer to hire graduates from medical assistant schools in Alaska. Pursuing an accredited program can last from a few months to two years.

After graduating, it is recommended to earn any of the following certifications:

• Certified Medical Assistant Certification: This is Alaska’s most widely accepted medical assistant certification. It is issued by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and requires applicants to complete their education at accredited medical assistant schools in Alaska. They should also gain practical experience, such as working as an unlicensed medical assistant for at least five years.
• Registered Medical Assistant Certification: Issued by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), The RMA certification exam requires unlicensed medical assistants to have at least three years of practical experience before applying. It should be a full-time employment wherein they conduct clinical and administrative duties.
• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant: Earning a CCMA certification from the National Healthcareer Association means students can support in-patient treatments and clinical procedures. That is because their primary duty is to work directly with patients and aid doctors and other healthcare professionals.

Becoming a certified medical assistant can lead to better work opportunities with higher income potential. It also allows them to broaden their experience, which can be helpful in pursuing further studies or seeking promotion. Certification can be a stepping stone to advancing their career and eventually earning a healthcare manager’s salary.

What career advancement opportunities are available for medical assistants in Alaska?

Medical assistants in Alaska can access various career advancement opportunities by building on their foundational skills and certifications. These opportunities include:

• Specializations: Medical assistants can specialize in fields like cardiology, dermatology, or pediatrics, enhancing expertise and opening doors to higher-paying roles within these specialties.
• Higher Certifications: Obtaining advanced certifications such as Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) or Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) can increase responsibilities and salary potential.
• Leadership Roles: Experienced medical assistants may advance to supervisory or management positions within healthcare facilities, where they oversee other medical assistants or handle administrative duties.
• Further Education: Pursuing additional education, such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in healthcare management, nursing, or allied health, can lead to roles like healthcare administrator or registered nurse.
• Teaching and Training: With experience, medical assistants can transition into roles as instructors for medical assistant programs or provide on-the-job training for new hires in healthcare facilities.

Medical Assistant Program Length in Alaska

Certificate or degree programs from medical assistant schools in Alaska can take eight months to two years to complete. After graduating, they can immediately get a job or use this program to pursue healthcare master’s degrees.

Graduates must work as full-time, unlicensed medical assistants for at least three years. It should be in a healthcare setting wherein they conduct administrative and clinical duties. Doing so qualifies them to sit for a certification exam and become certified or registered medical assistants.

Becoming a certified medical assistant can lead to more employment opportunities. That is because becoming certified demonstrates that graduates have the aptitude for the job. More employment opportunities can also lead to higher salary potential. Medical assistants working in insurance companies can earn an average of $51,410 yearly (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022)

Tuition and Cost of Medical Assistant Schools in Alaska

Meeting specific medical assistant school requirements in Alaska only takes as little as eight months. However, it can be costly as the per unit cost of a medical assistant program in the state averages $434. Depending on the type of college or university, whether they are enrolled full-time or part-time, and whether they are state residents, tuition at medical assistant schools in Alaska ranges from $6,960 to $22,032 per academic year (National Center for Education Statistics, 2023).

Alaska Schools Offering Medical Assistant Programs for 2025

The review experts at Research.com gathered valuable information from credible sources and listed the following medical assistant schools in Alaska. These programs were evaluated based on affordability, academic rating, enrollment rate, and other key metrics.

1. Charter College

Taking the Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assistant at Charter College is ideal for graduates of the Certificate Medical Assistant program. This program will teach students how to prepare diagnostic tests, acquire patient samples, maintain electronic health records, and more. They will also learn to use computer technology to streamline their work and provide healthcare support.

• Program Length: Eight months
• Tracks/concentrations: Healthcare delivery systemMedical billing and codingPhlebotomy
• Healthcare delivery system
• Medical billing and coding
• Phlebotomy
• Cost per credit: $386
• Required Credits to Graduate: 54
• Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools

2. Kenai Peninsula College

The Kenai Peninsula College offers a Certificate in Medical Assisting program, teaching students to become multi-skilled allied health professionals in ambulatory settings. This entails that they will graduate with the skills and knowledge to function in a physician’s office, outpatient care center, and clinic under the supervision of a licensed healthcare practitioner. KPC is also part of the University of Alaska education system, enabling students to gain transferrable credits they can use to pursue a degree after completing the certification program.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Human biologyMedical terminologyEssentials of human diseasesAdministrative procedures
• Human biology
• Medical terminology
• Essentials of human diseases
• Administrative procedures
• Cost per credit: $234 (Alaska resident), $800 (Non-Alaska resident)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 60
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

3. University of Alaska Fairbanks

Designed as a degree completion program, the Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting builds upon the knowledge and skills that students acquired during the certification level. As such, medical assistant students of the University of Alaska Fairbanks may need to take additional allied health and general education coursework. Upon graduating, they may assist physicians in conducting patient exams and procedures or work in the front office for billing, reimbursement, and office management.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Administrative proceduresClinical proceduresFundamentals of anatomy and physiology
• Administrative procedures
• Clinical procedures
• Fundamentals of anatomy and physiology
• Cost per credit: $234 (Alaska resident), $800 (Non-Alaska resident)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 63
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs

4. Alaska Career College

Pursuing the Medical Assistant Specialist certification program at Alaska Career College allows students to make a difference in people’s lives. This program will teach them how to read and measure vital signs, conduct routine and specialty exams, store patient history, record patient charts, and more. They can also take day or evening classes, providing them the flexibility to pursue education and start earning quickly.

• Program Length: 14 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Anatomy and physiologyMedical administrationMedical law, ethics, and HIPAA compliance
• Anatomy and physiology
• Medical administration
• Medical law, ethics, and HIPAA compliance
• Cost per credit: $353
• Required Credits to Graduate: 46
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission of Career Schools and Colleges

5. University of Alaska Anchorage

Pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting at the University of Alaska Anchorage allows students to start their journey to having a high-demand healthcare career. The program will teach students how to draw samples from patients, conduct administrative tasks, and hone their communication skills to better interact with patients and other healthcare professionals. They will graduate to become versatile medical assistants who can fulfill their varying responsibilities based on workplace settings.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Anatomy and physiologyClinical and administrative proceduresMedical terminologyMedical office coding
• Anatomy and physiology
• Clinical and administrative procedures
• Medical terminology
• Medical office coding
• Cost per credit: $234 (Alaska resident), $800 (Non-Alaska resident)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 60
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs

Can advanced certifications elevate your healthcare career?

Advanced certifications can significantly transform a medical assistant’s role by providing specialized clinical and administrative expertise that distinguishes candidates in a competitive market. Pursuing additional credentials—ranging from niche clinical skills to leadership and advanced practice training—opens pathways to assume higher-responsibility positions or transition into senior clinical roles. For instance, targeted advanced training enhances the likelihood of moving into roles that require a broader scope of practice and decision-making authority. To explore a pathway into such advanced roles, consider reviewing resources on how to become a nurse practitioner in Alaska, which illustrates one of the many avenues for career progression facilitated by continuing education and certification.

How Do Medical Assistant Programs Address Alaska’s Unique Healthcare Challenges?

In Alaska, where remote communities and vast distances shape the healthcare landscape, medical assistant programs have tailored their curricula to meet unique local needs. Programs incorporate telehealth training, advanced simulation exercises, and crisis management modules to prepare students for working in isolated or resource-limited settings. Many schools also emphasize cultural competency and community-based learning to ensure graduates can navigate the diverse patient populations found in both urban centers and rural areas. For further professional development and technical certification insights, explore how to become a certified medical assistant.

What to look for in medical assistant schools in Alaska?

When choosing between medical assistant schools in Alaska, students must evaluate several key factors. Doing so ensures they receive quality education and training that prepares them for a successful healthcare career.

• Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency, such as the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Accreditation guarantees that the medical assistant program meets established standards of quality.
• Curriculum: Review if the curriculum covers essential medical assisting topics, including office management, clinical procedures, medical billing and coding, and patient communication. A well-rounded curriculum will prepare students for the diverse responsibilities of a medical assistant.
• Clinical Experience: Look for medical assistant schools in Alaska that offer hands-on clinical experience or externships. Practical training in actual healthcare settings is essential for developing practical skills and gaining exposure to the field.
• Certification Preparation: An excellent medical assistant program should prepare students for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exams. Check if the school’s curriculum aligns with the content covered in these exams.
• Resources and Facilities: Assess the school’s resources, including laboratories, medical equipment, and technology. Access to modern facilities can enhance a student’s learning experience.
• Job Placement Assistance: Inquire about the school’s job placement services. A program that helps graduates find employment in the field can be highly beneficial for launching a graduate’s career.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the overall cost of the program, including tuition, fees, and supplies. Research financial aid options, scholarships, and grants to make education more affordable.

Can biotechnology trends open additional career avenues in Alaska?

Recent advancements in biotechnology are reshaping healthcare by introducing novel diagnostic tools and treatment methods. Medical assistants seeking to diversify their skill sets may benefit from proficiency in bioanalytical techniques and emerging lab technologies, which can complement their clinical expertise and support innovative patient care practices. Engaging with the rapidly evolving field of biotechnology can open opportunities in research, development, and specialized clinical roles where technical skills are in high demand. For further exploration of these interdisciplinary opportunities, consider reviewing biotechnology careers.

Can expanding into medical billing and coding boost your healthcare career?

Diversifying your skill set to include medical billing and coding offers a strategic advantage beyond conventional clinical support. Integrating these administrative proficiencies not only enhances your understanding of the revenue cycle but also strengthens your role in reducing claim denials and streamlining patient billing processes. This dual competency can position you uniquely in Alaska’s evolving healthcare industry, where operational efficiency and seamless coordination between care delivery and administrative management are highly valued. For a comprehensive overview of this pathway, review how to become a medical biller and coder in Alaska.

How can transitioning to an LPN role accelerate my career in Alaska?

Medical assistants seeking a rapid elevation in their clinical responsibilities may consider transitioning to an LPN role. A focused LPN training program provides a streamlined pathway to broaden clinical skills and assume higher levels of patient care. Leveraging hands-on experience alongside targeted educational programs can reduce the typical barriers encountered in career advancement. For detailed guidance on this accelerated transition, review how to become an LPN fast in Alaska. This approach not only enhances professional credibility but also aligns with Alaska’s evolving need for versatile healthcare providers in both rural and urban settings.

Exploring Career Pathways Beyond Medical Assisting in Alaska

While a career as a medical assistant can be rewarding, it often serves as a stepping stone for those aspiring to advance in the healthcare sector. Many medical assistants in Alaska use their foundational skills to explore higher-level roles in healthcare, such as nursing or medical office management. For individuals who wish to expand their scope of practice, pursuing education in nursing is a logical next step. Transitioning from a medical assistant to a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse (RN) enhances professional prospects and earning potential.

The pathway to nursing offers not only financial rewards but also broader responsibilities in patient care. By building on the clinical and administrative skills acquired as a medical assistant, professionals can seamlessly adapt to the demands of nursing roles. To learn more about this rewarding career path, explore our comprehensive guide on how to become a nurse in Alaska.

Additionally, other options for career advancement include roles in healthcare administration, such as becoming a healthcare manager or an office administrator. These roles leverage the organizational expertise developed in medical assisting, opening doors to leadership and management positions within healthcare facilities. Investing in continuing education and specialized certifications can further unlock these opportunities, ensuring long-term career growth in Alaska's thriving healthcare industry.

How Can Understanding Nursing License Requirements in Alaska Enhance Your Career Prospects?

In Alaska’s dynamic healthcare environment, familiarizing oneself with regulatory benchmarks is essential for those considering a transition into advanced clinical roles. A clear grasp of the nursing license requirements in Alaska can inform decisions about pursuing additional certifications and educational pathways, ensuring that healthcare professionals remain competitive while aligning with state-specific mandates. This proactive approach not only facilitates a smoother transition into nursing roles but also underscores a commitment to continuous professional development and adherence to evolving industry standards.

Become a Medical Assistant and Improve the Quality of Patient Care in Alaska

Pursuing medical assistant jobs in Alaska can be personally fulfilling and financially rewarding. Medical assistants play a pivotal role in improving the quality of patient care by ensuring smooth healthcare facility operations, assisting healthcare providers, and fostering positive patient interactions.

With accredited medical assistant schools in Alaska providing comprehensive training and education, students can embark on a fulfilling career path that allows them to contribute to the health and well-being of people in the state. The right program can give students the knowledge and skills to excel in this vital healthcare role. While it is not one of the highest-paying medical jobs in the country, the versatility and commitment of medical assistants to deliver high-quality healthcare services make them invaluable members of the industry.

Can additional licensure broaden your healthcare opportunities in Alaska?

In Alaska’s evolving healthcare landscape, pursuing specialized licensure can serve as a strategic complement to a career in medical assisting. Additional certifications offer access to roles with increased responsibility and can provide a competitive edge in diverse healthcare settings. For instance, transitioning from administrative and clinical support to more specialized fields may involve obtaining certifications that focus on medication management and patient safety. Such advancements not only enhance career mobility but also bolster professional credibility within multidisciplinary teams. Professionals interested in expanding their scope of practice might explore pathways that integrate clinical expertise with specialized licensure, such as how to become a licensed pharmacist in Alaska.

What Are the Key Considerations for Transitioning from a Medical Assistant to an LVN Role in Alaska?

Transitioning from a medical assistant to a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) role involves evaluating additional educational requirements, changes in clinical responsibilities, and long-term career objectives. Prospective LVN candidates should assess the intensity and duration of required training programs, compare clinical skill sets, and determine fit with personal career goals. This step also demands an understanding of state-specific licensure regulations and the evolving healthcare needs unique to Alaska’s remote and urban environments. Professionals seeking a structured roadmap for such a transition can review how to become a LVN nurse in Alaska to access detailed guidance on curriculum expectations, certification processes, and potential career outcomes.

Could Radiology Technician Training Expand My Career Opportunities in Alaska?

Medical assistants looking to diversify their professional expertise may find value in pursuing specialized training in diagnostic imaging. Expanding into radiology technician training equips professionals with skills in operating imaging equipment, understanding radiographic safety protocols, and interpreting diagnostic images, thereby enhancing their overall contribution to patient-centered care. This strategic certification can open doors to hybrid roles within healthcare settings, where clinical support and technical proficiency intersect. For targeted guidance on credentialing and program specifics, explore our guide on how to become a radiology technician in Alaska.

Key Insights

• Growing Demand: The demand for medical assistants in Alaska is projected to increase by 14.61% by 2030, driven by expanding healthcare services, an aging population, and technological advancements.
• High Earnings: Alaska is one of the highest-paying states for medical assistants, with an average annual salary of $49,400, which is significantly higher than the national average.
• Educational Pathways: Accredited medical assistant programs in Alaska offer a range of certifications and degrees, with program lengths varying from eight months to two years.
• Certification Benefits: Earning certifications such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) enhances employment opportunities and salary potential.
• Comprehensive Training: Programs equip students with skills in medical equipment usage, vital sign collection, specimen sampling, and electronic health record management.
• Top Schools: Leading institutions in Alaska include Charter College, Kenai Peninsula College, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Alaska Career College, and University of Alaska Anchorage.
• Accreditation Importance: Ensuring programs are accredited by recognized agencies like the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) guarantees quality education.
• Hands-On Experience: Programs offering practical training and externships in healthcare settings are essential for skill development and job readiness.
• Financial Considerations: Tuition costs vary widely, with financial aid options available to help manage expenses.

FAQ

What is the job outlook for medical assistants in Alaska?

The demand for medical assistants in Alaska is expected to grow by 14.61% by 2030, driven by expanding healthcare services, an aging population, and advancements in technology.

What are the average salary prospects for medical assistants in Alaska?

Medical assistants in Alaska earn an average annual salary of $49,400, which is 21.4% higher than the national mean annual wage. Salaries can vary based on experience, certification, and location within the state.

What steps are required to become a medical assistant in Alaska?

To become a medical assistant in Alaska, one should complete a diploma or degree program from an accredited school, gain practical experience, and earn certifications such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).

How long do medical assistant programs in Alaska typically take to complete?

Medical assistant programs in Alaska can take from eight months to two years to complete, depending on whether the student is pursuing a certificate, diploma, or associate degree.

What are the tuition costs for medical assistant programs in Alaska?

Tuition for medical assistant programs in Alaska varies widely. On average, the cost per credit is $434, with annual tuition ranging from $6,960 to $22,032 depending on the type of institution and residency status.

What are the top medical assistant schools in Alaska?

Top medical assistant schools in Alaska include Charter College, Kenai Peninsula College, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Alaska Career College, and University of Alaska Anchorage, offering various certificate and degree programs.

Why is accreditation important for medical assistant programs?

Accreditation ensures that the medical assistant program meets established standards of quality in education and training. Accredited programs are recognized for preparing students effectively for certification exams and careers in healthcare.

What practical training opportunities are available in medical assistant programs in Alaska?

Many medical assistant programs in Alaska offer hands-on clinical experience and externships in healthcare settings, which are essential for developing practical skills and gaining exposure to the field.

What financial aid options are available for medical assistant students in Alaska?

Financial aid options for medical assistant students in Alaska include scholarships, grants, and loans. Prospective students should research available financial aid resources to help offset the cost of their education.

How does certification benefit a medical assistant's career?

Certification, such as CMA or RMA, enhances employment opportunities, increases earning potential, and demonstrates proficiency and commitment to the medical assisting profession.

What hands-on clinical experiences and externship opportunities are available through medical assistant programs?

Medical assistant programs offer extensive hands-on clinical experiences and externship opportunities to prepare students for real-world healthcare settings. These programs typically include practical training in medical offices, clinics, and hospitals, where students learn to perform tasks such as taking patient vital signs, administering injections, and assisting with minor procedures. Externships, often a required component of the curriculum, allow students to work alongside experienced medical professionals, gaining valuable insights and practical skills in a supervised environment. These opportunities not only enhance clinical proficiency but also provide networking connections and potential job placements, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their careers as medical assistants.

References:

• Alaska Hospital & Healthcare Association (2022). Alaska Health Workforce Analysis. Retrieved from https://www.alaskahha.org/workforce
• Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Medical Assistants. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes319092.htm#st
• Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Medical Assistants. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm#tab-1
• Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (2023). List of accredited medical assistant schools in the United States. Retrieved from https://www.caahep.org/students/find-an-accredited-program
• County Health Rankings (2023). Adults With Frequent Physical Distress. Retrieved from https://www.countyhealthrankings.org/explore-health-rankings/alaska?year=2023&measure=Frequent+Physical+Distress*
• National Center for Education Statistics (2023). College Navigator: Medical Assistant Schools in Alaska. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?s=AK&p=51.0801