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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The United States is experiencing a growing demand for medical assistants, and Illinois is one of the states fueling that demand. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, 2023c), medical assistant employment will grow by 14% from 2022 to 2032 nationwide, extending to the Prairie State, which has a grade of ‘A’ for medical assistant employability (Northwest Suburban College, 2023). Aspirants and professionals can rely on the state’s industrial market for potential medical assistant jobs.

The Prairie State is also home to a number of reputable postsecondary institutions, enhancing its appeal to learners. The medical assisting schools in Illinois offer training programs in the discipline and degrees in other healthcare fields, many of which prepare students for future certifications and the Certified Medical Assistant exam. With educational and professional opportunities covered, Illinois has become a worthwhile destination for medical assistants. So, how does an aspirant become a certified professional in the state?

Our research team outlined the steps on how to become a medical assistant in Illinois, covering the fees, duration, requirements, and the standardized exam that will be encountered. We have also evaluated the medical assistant programs in Illinois according to several key metrics to determine the five that would most likely produce ideal outcomes. As a result, readers will have an easier time navigating the process of earning a certification.

Best Medical Assistant Schools & Programs in Illinois Table of Contents

Is being a medical assistant a good job in Illinois?
What are the steps to becoming a medical assistant in Illinois?
Medical Assistant Program Length in Illinois
Tuition and Costs of Medical Assistant Programs in Illinois
Illinois Schools Offering Medical Assistant Programs for 2025
What To Look For in Medical Assistant Programs in Illinois
What career advancement options are available for medical assistants in Illinois?
Bridge Programs for Medical Assistants to Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
Exploring Advanced Nursing Pathways for Medical Assistants
Accelerated Medical Assistant Programs
What specialized certifications can diversify a medical assistant’s career?
How Can Medical Assistants Transition to Becoming a Nurse Practitioner?
What Are the Recommended Steps to Gain Proficiency in Medical Billing and Coding?
What Are the Mentoring and Networking Opportunities for Medical Assistants in Illinois?
Should Medical Assistants Consider Medical Coding for Career Growth?
Can Medical Assistants Transition into Pharmacy Careers?
Should Medical Assistants Explore Radiologic Technology Roles?
Should Medical Assistants Consider Expanding into Sonography Specializations?
What Are the Legal and Regulatory Considerations for Medical Assistants in Illinois?
What Are the Credential Pathways for Medical Assistants to Transition into Nursing Roles?

Is being a medical assistant a good job in Illinois?

Illinois is a reliable destination for medical assistant employment despite its unemployment rate of 4.1% (BLS, 2023a)— slightly higher than the national average of 3.8% (BLS, 2023e)—needing some improvement. Data from the BLS (2023b) show that the state employs 21,610 medical assistants and 18,810 medical secretaries and administrative assistants, high numbers compared to many other states. In addition, the Chicago metropolitan area has the fourth-highest employment level for medical assistants among all metropolitan areas in the country, with 16,820 (BLS, 2023d). Meanwhile, Indeed.com currently has 2,017 open jobs related to medical assisting in the Prairie State.

In terms of compensation, medical assistants and similar professions in Illinois are often decently paid. A tabulation from the BLS (2023b) reveals that medical assistants receive an average annual salary of $40,730; medical secretaries and administrative assistants earn $40,510; medical equipment preparers take $43,380; and emergency medical technicians get $48,420. In the Chicago metropolitan area, medical assistants typically have slightly higher salaries, averaging 42,100 (BLS, 2023d).

As far as living costs are concerned, Illinois is 9% lower than the national average overall, with more affordable basic necessities nearly across the board (RentCafe, 2023). Housing costs are 20% lower; monthly utility expenses are 7% lower; the cost of goods and services is 5% lower; and healthcare expenses are 3% lower. The only area is the average transportation cost, which is 5% higher. As such, individuals looking to pursue an education or career in medical assisting in the state will not be dealing with high living costs.

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

Medical assistant certification in Illinois may not be as rigorous as with many other medical professions, but the process still involves several steps. And it starts with an education. Aspirants can enroll in any of the undergraduate medical assistant programs in Illinois and then pass the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam before formally applying for certification. Once certified, CMAs must complete continuing education units to maintain their certification. They will eventually have access to some of the highest-paying jobs for medical assistants should they advance to certifications with higher levels.

Earn an Undergraduate Degree

The education-based medical assistant requirements Illinois has surprisingly do not compel aspirants to finish college—a GED or high school diploma would normally suffice since these professionals are often trained at work. However, to become a CMA, an aspirant should finish any of the medical assistant programs in Illinois accredited by the following organizations:

The type of undergraduate degree one should take is not explicitly stated, but many opt to take one- to two-year programs prior to taking the CMA exam. A certificate program, say, a certificate in medical assisting or a medical office administration degree, takes only about a year to complete and focuses on the major courses involved. On the other hand, associate degrees offer a more well-rounded approach, with general courses surrounding the major ones, and take around two years to complete. Bachelor’s degrees in medical assisting balance general knowledge with major subjects but take the longest to finish at around four years.

According to Zippia (2023), 24% of medical assistants in the United States have associate degrees, 23% have training certificates, 11% have bachelor’s degrees, 9% have high school diplomas, and 33% have other degrees. This shows that the most popular options are associate degrees and training certificates in medical assisting.

Pass the CMA Exam

Graduates have several exam options based on the type of certification they wish to obtain. The most prominent ones include the following:

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA). Administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), this exam contains 200 items divided into four 40-minute segments. It has a passing rate of only 58%, which means students should take their studies seriously if they are to get through this test (AAMA, 2023).
Registered Medical Assistant (RMA). Prepared by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), this exam contains 21o items and should be finished in around two hours. It has a passing rate of 73%, making the test moderately difficult (Holbrook, 2021).
Clinical Medical Assistant Certification (CCMA). Leading to certification from the National Healthcare Association (NHA), this exam comprises 150 multiple-choice items and 30 pre-test questions and should be turned in after three hours. It has a passing rate of 77% (Brookline College, 2022a).
National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA). Offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), this exam has 150 multiple-choice items with 15 pretest questions. It has a passing rate of only 56.8%, making it a fairly difficult test (Brookline College, 2022b).

Each exam leads to a particular certification, so students should devote time to studying before taking one. The CMA certification is one of the most common, so many medical assistants take it along with the exams for the other certifications they wish to pursue. Given some of the exams’ fairly low pass rates, students can take review classes for the exams they want to take to increase their chances of getting certified.

Apply for and Maintain Certification

After passing a certification exam, the candidates should apply for certification from the organization that administered the exam. Application forms can be found on the exam organization’s website. They should be submitted along with several supporting documents, which typically include official transcripts, proof of passing the exam, and proof of completing high school and postsecondary education. To know the full list of requirements, visit the websites of organizations that administered the exams.

Normally, CMAs can maintain their license by completing 60 continuing education hours within 63 months before recertification (Holbrook, 2023a). The CMA certificate from the AAMA is valid for five years, the NCMA certificate from the NCCT for five, and the CCMA certificate from the NHA for two.

Medical Assistant Program Length in Illinois

So, how long does it take to become a medical assistant in Illinois? The duration largely depends on the postsecondary program type and professional certification. Regarding the two most popular types of medical assistant programs in Illinois, a certificate program often takes one year to complete, while an associate degree is usually a two-year program (Illinois Area Health Education Centers, 2022). Meanwhile, those who don’t aim to become certified can get by with a high school diploma or a GED since the state has no education requirements for medical assistants. After completing their education, candidates must pass a certification exam before being issued a professional certificate, which should take around a few months.

Professional certifications typically vary in educational requirements, affecting the duration of certification (Madi, nd).

CMA. A CMA certification requires finishing an accredited postsecondary program in medical assisting.
RMA. An RMA certification necessitates completing a postsecondary program as an option. Other options include a five-year experience as a medical assistant and working as a teacher in medical assisting after completing a postsecondary healthcare program.
CCMA. A CCMA certification requires a high school diploma, a medical assisting degree, or one year of medical assisting experience.
NCMA. An NCMA certification requires being a student of an accredited medical assisting program, completing an accredited program in the last five years, working as a medical assistant for two years, or completing the military equivalent of a medical assisting program.

Tuition and Costs of Medical Assistant Programs in Illinois

The costs of medical assistant programs in Illinois fall within the national average for medical assisting programs and tend to vary based on numerous factors, including the type of program, school reputation, district pricing trends, and a student’s physical distance from campus. These can range from $1,5o0 for a certificate program to more than $20,000 for an associate degree in medical assisting (Holbrook, 2023b).

Medical assistant programs from trade schools cost around $2,500 to $20,000 annually, while those from community colleges range from $1,500 to $10,000 for in-state learners. Online certificates, which can be completed within a year, typically cost around $2,000 to $5,000. Meanwhile, associate degrees from community colleges charge an average of about $10,000, ranging from $10,000 to $60,000.

Illinois Schools Offering Medical Assistant Programs

Given the high demand for the profession, Illinois has an abundance of medical assistant programs. This is good news for aspirants since they have plenty of options and can even concurrently pursue other degrees, like starting the process of becoming a medical coder or biller. To help narrow down one’s choices, our research team carefully assessed each program offered in the state and determined five of the most notable ones.

1. Southwestern Illinois College Medical Assistant Associate Degree

One of the top medical assistant programs in Illinois, the Medical Assistant Program at Southwestern Illinois College is designed to help students score high in the certification exam and excel in various settings. It has diverse course coverage, tackling subjects like medical office procedures, medical law, health care communications, anatomy, and physiology. The program also features small classes so instructors can apply personalized learning as needed. Besides the associate degree, SWIC has a certificate program for learners who want to enter the professional realm quickly.

Program Length: 2 years
Tracks/concentrations: None
Cost per Credit: $113
Required Credits to Graduate: 68.5
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs

2. Midwest Technical Institute Medical Assisting Program (Certificate)

The Medical Assisting Program at Midwest Technical Institute focuses on clinical experiences and hands-on training to empower students’ skill development. The school hires seasoned professionals as instructors for this program so that the activities taught are always relevant to professional practice. Its coursework includes subjects like human anatomy, coding, medical insurance, phlebotomy, and clinical office management.

Program Length: 9 months
Tracks/concentrations: None
Cost per Credit: $1,222.60
Required Credits to Graduate: 26.5
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs

3. Harper College Medical Assistant Certificate

The Medical Assistant Certificate program at Harper College puts emphasis on developing skills and knowledge on clerical and administrative tasks in medical assisting. The skills that students will develop include recordkeeping, patient communication, computer functions, and clinical skills across the various areas of patient care. Students can opt to take a Health Care Office Manager associate degree after, given the program’s stackable courses, or proceed with the CMA exam.

Program Length: 1.5 to 2 years
Tracks/concentrations: None
Cost per Credit: $135.50 (in-state); $392.50 (out-of-district); $468 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 36
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs

4. Moraine Valley Community College Medical Assistant Certificate

The Medical Assistant Certificate program at Moraine Valley Community College centers on skill and knowledge development in academics, ethics, and various social settings. It fosters absorption in domains like psychomotor, cognitive, and affective learning, ensuring graduates are job-ready upon graduation. The Moraine Valley Medical Assistant program also features a 160-hour externship that has students work with professionals in clinical settings.

Program Length: 1.5 years
Tracks/concentrations: None
Cost per Credit: $159 (in-state); $354 (out-of-district); $410 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 50
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs

5. Lincoln Land Community College Clinical Medical Assistant Program

The Clinical Medical Assistant Program at Lincoln Land Community College offers a comprehensive approach to the discipline, covering areas like medical billing, record management, communication, appointment scheduling, and assisting physicians. In addition, the program features collaborative experiences with professional practice administrators and clinical coordinators. Besides this program, the school also offers a CNA to CMA bridge.

Program Length: Not Available
Tracks/concentrations: None
Cost per Credit: $137 (in-state); $411 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 9
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs

What To Look For in Medical Assistant Programs in Illinois

Many medical assistant programs in Illinois appear to have similar offerings at first glance, which can cause difficulties in selecting a program to enroll in. After all, their ultimate goal is to impart sufficient knowledge and skills to learners so that they can get certified and find gainful employment after graduation. As such, our team of researchers has pointed out a few points for consideration to help aspirants find the ideal program among a list of options.

Accreditation

Organizations that certify professionals typically only recognize accredited medical assistant programs in Illinois since accreditation signifies that a postsecondary program offers coursework and learning experiences that drive students’ success. When choosing a program, learners are advised to check if their options have accreditation from CAAHEP or ABHES, with the accredited programs going higher on their priority lists.

Program Length

Since certifications for medical assistants only require high school or undergraduate education, aspirants can use the duration of programs as a basis for selection. Certificate programs are cheaper, strictly focus on major courses, and can be completed in a year or less. At the same time, associate degrees usually take two years to complete and surround medical assisting courses with relevant courses to deliver well-rounded knowledge, including soft skills, which can help students professionally. Aspirants can choose based on their schedules and goals.

Clinical Experiences

Clinical experiences simulate the jobs performed by medical assistants and prepare students for their future roles. In addition, some certification exams center on students’ clinical knowledge, particularly in various scenarios. As such, a program that offers many of these experiences across the different areas of medical assisting can lead to better outcomes for learners. Aspirants can check the course offerings of the programs they are interested in and see if they have a fair amount of clinical or lab-based classes.

What career advancement options are available for medical assistants in Illinois?

Medical assistants in Illinois have numerous pathways for career growth and specialization within the healthcare industry. Here are some options:

Specialization Certifications: Medical assistants can pursue additional certifications in areas like phlebotomy, EKG technology, and medical coding. Specializing in these fields can make them more valuable to employers and improve their earning potential.
Transition to Healthcare Administration: With experience, medical assistants may move into administrative roles such as medical office manager or healthcare administration, overseeing the operational aspects of a medical practice.
Nursing and Allied Health Careers: Medical assistants often return to school to train for roles in nursing, such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN), or other allied health positions like radiology technician or respiratory therapist. These roles require additional education but offer higher salaries and broader career opportunities.
Educational and Mentoring Roles: Experienced medical assistants can teach or mentor new medical assistant students, working with community colleges or medical assistant training programs.

Bridge Programs for Medical Assistants to Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)

Bridge programs for MAs to LPNs in Illinois are an excellent opportunity for medical assistants to grow their careers in nursing. These programs are designed to be efficient, flexible, and tailored to meet the needs of working professionals. With the right preparation, MAs can successfully transition into fulfilling roles as LPNs and take their nursing careers to the next level.

The medical assistant to lpn bridge program is typically designed to reduce redundancy by granting credit for prior experience and education as a medical assistant. Most programs focus on foundational nursing principles, patient care, pharmacology, and clinical practice. The curriculum is tailored to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses), which is required for licensure in Illinois.

Eligibility Requirements

Medical Assistant Certification: Candidates must have completed an accredited medical assistant program and may need to hold a CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) or RMA (Registered Medical Assistant) credential.
Experience: Some programs require a minimum of 1–2 years of work experience as a medical assistant.
Prerequisite Courses: Applicants may need to complete prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, and basic nursing concepts.
Licensure Requirements: A clean criminal background check, CPR certification, and immunization records are often mandatory.

Exploring Advanced Nursing Pathways for Medical Assistants

Medical assistants who wish to broaden their career horizons often explore transitioning into advanced roles within nursing. By leveraging their foundational clinical and administrative skills, they can accelerate their journey toward becoming registered nurses (RNs). One viable route involves enrolling in ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) programs tailored for working professionals. These programs are not only flexible but also strategically designed to build on the knowledge medical assistants already possess.

For those considering this pathway, understanding state-specific nursing requirements is essential. In Illinois, medical assistants with aspirations of advancing into nursing can gain insight into educational milestones, licensing exams, and regulatory criteria by reviewing comprehensive resources, such as this guide on how to become a nurse in Illinois. Mastering these steps not only ensures smooth career progression but also opens doors to a broader range of opportunities in clinical practice, patient care, and healthcare leadership.

Accelerated Medical Assistant Programs

Accelerated programs condense the curriculum to help students complete their training in a shorter timeframe, often in 6–12 weeks. These programs focus intensively on the essential skills needed for entry-level roles, such as:

Taking patient vital signs and medical histories.
Assisting physicians during examinations.
Handling administrative tasks like scheduling and billing.

Many of these programs include hands-on clinical training to ensure students are prepared for certification exams. For those interested in exploring such options, 6 week medical assistant program near me can provide the fast-track solution needed to launch a healthcare career quickly.

What happens after becoming a certified medical assistant?

Upon completing one of the many medical assistant programs in Illinois and passing the standardized exam for one’s preferred certification, a candidate will become a certified medical assistant. Many ask, “What careers can I do with a health science degree in medical assisting and a professional certification?" A certified medical assistant can find jobs in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, care centers, doctor’s offices, corporations, and schools.

These professionals can also pursue further education to gain specializations and higher-tiered certifications. For instance, a CCMA certification has five tiers with increasing job grades and salaries. Besides adding depth to their medical assisting knowledge, they can obtain other certifications to widen their knowledge base and expand their spectra of potential jobs. Furthermore, experienced medical assistants can secure teaching positions in colleges and universities alongside their main lines of work to boost their income while scaling the ranks of the academe.

What specialized certifications can diversify a medical assistant’s career?

Medical assistants seeking to broaden their impact in healthcare may consider pursuing specialized certifications beyond their core clinical competencies. Targeted credentials in areas such as phlebotomy, EKG technology, and medical coding enhance technical expertise while making professionals more versatile in multidisciplinary settings. Additionally, certifications in allied health domains like nutrition can further complement core skills by supporting preventive care and wellness initiatives. For professionals interested in expanding their scope, exploring options such as how to become a nutritionist in Illinois can offer strategic advantages and open new pathways for career diversification.

How Can Medical Assistants Transition to Becoming a Nurse Practitioner?

Medical assistants with substantial clinical experience and a commitment to further education can explore advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioners, to significantly expand their career scope. Transitioning to this role typically involves evaluating educational prerequisites, obtaining an undergraduate degree in a related field, and enrolling in specialized bridge or accelerated programs that cater to experienced healthcare professionals. These programs emphasize enhanced clinical decision-making, diagnostic skills, and patient management competencies while paving the way toward advanced licensure. For comprehensive insights into this career pathway, please refer to how to become a nurse practitioner in Illinois.

What Are the Recommended Steps to Gain Proficiency in Medical Billing and Coding?

Expanding your expertise to include medical billing and coding can open additional pathways for career growth. Evaluate specialized training programs that offer hands-on experience, practical coding modules, and updated curriculum aligned with current industry standards. Employers value candidates who demonstrate dual proficiency in clinical assistance and administrative operations, as it streamlines workflow and improves cost efficiency. Review accredited courses and externships that focus on real-world applications; for detailed guidance, see How to become a medical biller and coder in Illinois?. Prioritizing comprehensive, structured training helps ensure adherence to evolving regulatory standards and enhances overall competency in integrated healthcare environments.

What Are the Mentoring and Networking Opportunities for Medical Assistants in Illinois?

Medical assistants can significantly benefit from structured mentoring and networking programs that connect them with industry experts and peer groups. Professional associations and local healthcare networks offer mentorship opportunities to refine soft skills, gain insights on clinical practices, and understand emerging trends in patient care. In addition, career-specific events and workshops facilitate direct interactions with leaders who provide guidance on navigating transitions to roles such as management or licensed practical nursing – for example, programs outlining how to become an LPN fast in Illinois. Tailored networking consistently proves invaluable for career growth, offering both immediate advice and long-term professional support.

Should Medical Assistants Consider Medical Coding for Career Growth?

Medical coding is a complementary skillset that can enhance a medical assistant’s versatility and income potential. By acquiring targeted training and certification in coding practices, professionals can diversify their roles and tap into specialized positions within healthcare administration. Evidence of the financial benefits lies in the competitive medical coding salary that professionals in this niche can earn. This integration of skills not only broadens career prospects but also meets the increasing demand for accurate and efficient healthcare documentation.

Can Medical Assistants Transition into Pharmacy Careers?

Medical assistants who possess robust clinical skills and experience in patient care can explore pharmacy roles as an alternative pathway for career growth. By pursuing targeted training in pharmaceutical sciences, these professionals can adapt their expertise to support medication management and pharmaceutical operations. Transitioning into the pharmacy field usually requires enrolling in specialized programs and obtaining additional licensure to meet state-specific requirements. For tailored guidance on entering this specialized field, review how to become a licensed pharmacist in Illinois.

Should Medical Assistants Explore Radiologic Technology Roles?

Medical assistants with robust clinical skills may consider transitioning into radiologic technology to diversify their career paths and enhance technical competencies. By integrating diagnostic imaging techniques with their existing expertise, professionals can access roles that demand precision in machine operation and patient safety. Focused training in imaging modalities and adherence to technical standards are essential for ensuring high-quality diagnostic outcomes. For a detailed outline of the required training and certification procedures, review our post about how to become a radiology technician in Illinois.

Should Medical Assistants Consider Expanding into Sonography Specializations?

Medical assistants aiming to diversify their clinical expertise may find value in sonography specializations. Gaining proficiency in diagnostic imaging not only broadens the scope of patient care but also strengthens professional credentials. Pursuing focused training can pave the way for enhanced roles and improved salary prospects by integrating advanced technological competencies with existing patient care skills. For those interested in exploring dedicated training pathways, consider leveraging online sonography programs to gain a competitive edge and further professional development.

What Are the Legal and Regulatory Considerations for Medical Assistants in Illinois?

Medical assistants in Illinois must navigate a framework of legal and regulatory requirements that ensure patient privacy, proper documentation, and adherence to scope of practice. Professionals should stay informed about state-specific mandates, including HIPAA compliance, malpractice liability, and limits on clinical tasks permitted under their certification. Familiarity with these regulations not only safeguards against legal risks but also enhances professional credibility and patient trust. For those considering a transition into roles with expanded responsibilities, reviewing how to become a LVN nurse in Illinois can provide valuable insight into additional licensure standards and regulatory obligations.

What Are the Credential Pathways for Medical Assistants to Transition into Nursing Roles?

Medical assistants seeking a transition into nursing roles must navigate additional educational prerequisites and state-specific licensing standards. This pathway typically involves enrolling in an accredited nursing program, which builds on existing clinical experience, and meeting targeted admissions criteria such as prerequisite coursework and entrance exams. Candidates must then pursue licensure by fulfilling detailed state certification guidelines. For instance, understanding the exact state mandates is essential to ensure compliance with clinical practice standards; prospective nurses can review the comprehensive nursing license requirements in Illinois to guide their transition. Emphasizing both academic preparation and practical training will facilitate a seamless integration into advanced nursing roles while enhancing professional growth and patient care expertise.

Key Insights

Growing Demand: Medical assistant employment is expected to grow by 14% from 2022 to 2032 in Illinois, reflecting the national trend and highlighting the state's high demand for these professionals.
High Employment Levels: Illinois employs a significant number of medical assistants, with 21,610 employed across the state and 16,820 in the Chicago metropolitan area, making it a robust market for job seekers.
Competitive Salaries: Medical assistants in Illinois earn an average annual salary of $40,730, with slightly higher wages in the Chicago area, where the average is $42,100.
Affordable Living Costs: Illinois offers a cost of living that is 9% lower than the national average, making it an attractive location for medical assistants looking for affordable living expenses.
Diverse Educational Opportunities: Illinois hosts several reputable medical assistant programs, including certificate and associate degree options, from institutions such as Southwestern Illinois College, Midwest Technical Institute, Harper College, Moraine Valley Community College, and Lincoln Land Community College.
Certification Importance: To enhance employability and career advancement, it is crucial for aspiring medical assistants to obtain certification from recognized bodies like the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the American Medical Technologists (AMT).

FAQ

What is the average salary for medical assistants in Illinois?

Medical assistants in Illinois earn an average annual salary of $40,730, with those in the Chicago metropolitan area earning slightly higher at $42,100.

How long does it take to complete a medical assistant program in Illinois?

The duration of medical assistant programs in Illinois varies. Certificate programs typically take about one year to complete, while associate degree programs usually take two years.

What are the steps to becoming a certified medical assistant in Illinois?

To become a certified medical assistant in Illinois, you need to complete an accredited medical assistant program, pass a certification exam (such as the CMA, RMA, CCMA, or NCMA), and apply for certification from the respective certifying body. Maintaining certification requires completing continuing education units.

What are the most reputable medical assistant programs in Illinois?

Some of the most reputable medical assistant programs in Illinois are offered by Southwestern Illinois College, Midwest Technical Institute, Harper College, Moraine Valley Community College, and Lincoln Land Community College.

Is Illinois a good place to pursue a career as a medical assistant?

Yes, Illinois is a good place to pursue a career as a medical assistant due to its high employment levels, competitive salaries, and relatively low cost of living compared to the national average.

What certifications are available for medical assistants in Illinois?

Certifications available for medical assistants in Illinois include the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from the American Medical Technologists (AMT), the Clinical Medical Assistant Certification (CCMA) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), and the National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) from the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).

How much does it cost to complete a medical assistant program in Illinois?

The cost of medical assistant programs in Illinois varies. Certificate programs can range from $1,500 to $5,000, while associate degree programs can cost between $10,000 and $20,000, with some community colleges offering lower in-state tuition rates.

What is the job outlook for medical assistants in Illinois?

The job outlook for medical assistants in Illinois is positive, with employment expected to grow significantly in the coming years, reflecting the national trend of increasing demand for healthcare professionals.

Are there any online medical assistant programs available in Illinois?

While the article does not specify, many institutions offer online components for their medical assistant programs. It is advisable to check with individual schools to see if they offer fully online or hybrid options.

What are the continuing education requirements for maintaining medical assistant certification?

Continuing education requirements vary by certifying body. For example, the CMA certification from the AAMA requires completing 60 continuing education hours within 63 months before recertification. It is important to check with the specific certifying organization for detailed requirements.

What continuing education and professional development opportunities are available for medical assistants in Illinois?

In Illinois, medical assistants have access to various continuing education and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and advance their careers. Many professional organizations, such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the Illinois Society of Medical Assistants (ISMA), offer workshops, seminars, and online courses covering the latest advancements in medical assisting. Additionally, local community colleges and healthcare institutions provide specialized training programs in areas like phlebotomy, EKG technology, and medical coding. These opportunities not only help medical assistants stay current with industry standards and practices but also improve their job prospects and potential for career growth in the healthcare field.

References:

AAMA (2023). About the Exam. AAMA
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BLS (2023e, September 1). THE EMPLOYMENT SITUATION — AUGUST 2023. BLS
Brookline College (2022a, August 10). How to Pass the CCMA Exam. Brookline College
Brookline College (2022b, August 24). How to Pass the NCMA Exam. Brookline College
Holbrook, J. (2023a). Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Guide: Exam, Salary, & More. Stepful
Holbrook, J. (2023b, September 26). Costs of Different Types of Medical Assistant Programs. Stepful
Holbrook, J. (2021). Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) Guide: Exam, Salary, & More. Stepful
Illinois Area Health Education Centers (2022, October 17). Medical Assistant. Illinois Area Health Education Centers
Northwest Suburban College (2023, May 10). The Growing Need for Medical Assistants. Northwest Suburban College
Zippia (2023, July 21). MEDICAL ASSISTANT EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS. Zippia