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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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The job market in New Hampshire appears to have recovered from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, with total employment levels exceeding the pre-COVID-19 numbers. However, for many industries, such as healthcare and social assistance, employment levels remain lower than they were in February 2020 (New Hampshire Employment Security, 2023).

Nonetheless, medical assistants are among the top occupations with the highest average yearly openings in the state. In 2020, there were 7,743 openings for medical assistants in New Hampshire. By 2030, the number of vacancies for the profession is poised to reach 8,272.

If you’d like to know how to become a medical assistant in NH, our team has done some research for you. We have extensively studied available medical assistant programs in New Hampshire, taking into consideration the program length, tuition, and costs. We also included a few online programs for cheaper options and more schedule flexibility.

Best Medical Assistant Schools & Programs in New Hampshire Table of Contents

1. Is being a medical assistant a good job in New Hampshire?
2. What are the career advancement options for medical assistants in New Hampshire?
3. What are the steps to becoming a medical assistant in New Hampshire?
4. Medical Assistant Program Length in New Hampshire
5. Can Medical Assistants Benefit from Nutrition Expertise?
6. Tuition and Costs of the Best Medical Assistant Programs in New Hampshire
7. Salary Expectations for Medical Assistants in New Hampshire
8. Best Medical Assistant Programs in New Hampshire for 2025
9. What To Look For in a Medical Assistant School & Program in New Hampshire
10. Can Medical Assistants Transition into Pharmacy Roles in New Hampshire?
11. Can Expanding Administrative and Technical Skills Enhance a Medical Assistant’s Career in New Hampshire?
12. How Do Regulatory Standards Impact Medical Assistant Practices in New Hampshire?
13. Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities for Medical Assistant Students in New Hampshire
14. How Can Medical Assistants Transition to Becoming an LVN Nurse in New Hampshire?
15. What are the prerequisites for obtaining a nursing license in New Hampshire?
16. Job Outlook for Medical Assistants in New Hampshire
17. Can Medical Assistants Transition to Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in New Hampshire?
18. How can medical assistants transition to becoming a nurse practitioner in New Hampshire?
19. What Are the Professional Development Opportunities Available?
20. Can Medical Assistants Transition to Radiologic Technology Roles in New Hampshire?

Is being a medical assistant a good job in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire’s lack of income tax, abundance of outdoor recreational activities, and a low cost of living made it a popular destination for those searching for a more rural setting for relocation during the pandemic. Now that the pandemic is over, is it still a good idea to work in the state, specifically as a medical assistant?

• High salary expectations. The medical assistant salary New Hampshire facilities provide come out to an annual mean wage of $42,870, which is higher than the national figure.
• The country’s healthiest state. The United Health Foundation ranked New Hampshire as the country’s healthiest state from 2020 to 2022. The state was rated highly on health-related factors, including low rates of poverty, food insecurity, income inequality, and unemployment.
• High rates of insurance coverage among residents. In 2021, the Institute of Health Policy and Practice of the University of New Hampshire determined that 91.1% of New Hampshire residents aged 19 to 64 had health insurance. The state also implemented the Affordable Care Act (ACT) in 2014 to establish insurance marketplaces and subsidies for low-income individuals.
• Good public transportation system. There are five bodies supporting transportation in New Hampshire’s urbanized areas, with more access to other rural and suburban areas in other regions. There are also five agencies particularly targeting rural communities. Moreover, numerous community agencies offer transportation as part of their support services.

What are the career advancement options for medical assistants in New Hampshire?

While medical assisting can be a fulfilling career, many professionals seek advancement opportunities to enhance their skills, increase their earning potential, and take on greater responsibilities. In New Hampshire, there are several pathways for medical assistants to advance their careers within the healthcare industry.

Specialization in a Medical Field

Medical assistants can pursue specializations such as ophthalmology, podiatry, or cardiology by obtaining additional certifications. Specialized roles often require focused training and expertise in specific procedures, allowing professionals to work more closely with physicians in these fields. Certifications like the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or Certified Podiatric Medical Assistant (CPMA) can open doors to higher-paying positions.

Transitioning to Administrative Roles

For those interested in the administrative side of healthcare, gaining experience and further education can lead to roles such as medical office manager, health information manager, or patient coordinator. These positions often involve managing staff, overseeing operations, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations.

Further Education

Medical assistants can advance by pursuing degrees in nursing, healthcare administration, or public health. Programs like Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) pathways are popular choices. Additionally, enrolling in an online or traditional Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration can pave the way for leadership roles in healthcare settings.

Obtaining Advanced Certifications

Certifications such as the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) or Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) demonstrate expertise and commitment to the profession. These credentials can enhance job prospects and qualify medical assistants for advanced roles in clinical or administrative settings.

Leadership Opportunities

Experienced medical assistants may have the opportunity to take on leadership roles, such as training new hires or managing medical assistant teams. These roles require strong communication, organization, and leadership skills, which can be developed through on-the-job experience or formal training.

What are the steps to becoming a medical assistant in New Hampshire?

The state does not technically require formal education and certification, but most employers prefer one or both. Many healthcare facilities prefer medical assistant ceritification New Hampshire through AAMA or RMA certification through AMT.

How to become a CMA? Medical assistants can obtain voluntary certification through AAMA or AMT by finishing an accredited program, such as a bachelor’s degree, and then taking a certification test.

The CMA credential is effective for 5 years. At this time, you must obtain 60 CE units or pass the recertification exam. New Hampshire State Society of Medical Assistants members can obtain CE units by attending periodic meetings in the state. To update yourself with any new requirements or changes to medical assistant programs in NH or the profession, check out the New Hampshire Board of Medicine or New Hampshire Medical Society regularly.

Medical Assistant Program Length in New Hampshire

Certificate and diploma programs take about 10 to 12 months to finish, so the medical assistant certification New Hampshire employers want may take less than a year to achieve. Meanwhile, an associate degree requires two years of full study because of its general education basics inclusion, while a bachelor’s degree in medical assisting may take even longer at 4 years.

Despite its longer duration, the associate degree has become the common choice of students taking medical assistant programs in New Hampshire due to its accompanying competitive edge and better earning potential.

Tuition and Costs of the Best Medical Assistant Programs in New Hampshire

Tuition for medical assistant programs in New Hampshire can vary depending on different factors. Schools tend to offer their own tuition rates, and many institutions also base tuition fees on the student’s state of residence. Out-of-state tuition fees tend to be higher than in-state tuition fees, though some schools charge the same rates for online programs.

For students who find that medical assistant programs in New Hampshire cost too much, various scholarships are offered in the state and country.

Salary Expectations for Medical Assistants in New Hampshire

Medical assistants in New Hampshire can expect a competitive salary that reflects the rapidly growing demand for healthcare professionals in the state. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for medical assistants nationwide was $37,190 as of May 2022. While earnings in New Hampshire may vary depending on factors like experience, location, and specialization, professionals in this state tend to earn wages slightly above the national average due to the state's higher cost of living and demand for skilled healthcare workers.

Entry-level medical assistants in New Hampshire typically earn between $30,000 and $35,000 annually, while more experienced professionals or those with specialized certifications can earn upwards of $45,000 or more per year. Additionally, medical assistants who work in metropolitan areas such as Manchester or Nashua often command higher salaries compared to those employed in rural regions, thanks to increased competition and availability of larger healthcare facilities.

To maximize earning potential, aspiring medical assistants should consider obtaining advanced certifications like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA). These credentials not only enhance job prospects but also often lead to higher salary offers. Additionally, gaining proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems and other healthcare technologies can make candidates more valuable to employers, influencing their overall compensation packages.

Ensuring a clear understanding of salary expectations before entering the field allows medical assistants in New Hampshire to set realistic career goals and prepare for financial stability. For those considering advancing their roles in healthcare, exploring how to become a nurse in New Hampshire can provide additional opportunities to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare industry.

Can Medical Assistants Benefit from Nutrition Expertise?

Integrating nutritional knowledge into a medical assisting career can enhance patient care by addressing dietary factors that influence both preventive and therapeutic practices. As healthcare increasingly emphasizes holistic treatment approaches, medical assistants with an understanding of nutrition can support physicians by providing comprehensive patient education and aiding in the management of diet-related conditions. This added competency can improve patient outcomes and streamline interdisciplinary collaboration within clinical settings.

Furthermore, incorporating nutritional expertise into daily responsibilities may boost career versatility and open opportunities to work alongside dietitians or to eventually transition into nutrition-oriented roles. For those interested in expanding their skill set, exploring guidance on how to become a nutritionist in New Hampshire can offer a clear path toward diversification in the healthcare field.

Best Medical Assistant Programs in New Hampshire for 2025

Getting education from prominent medical assistant programs in New Hampshire is the key to a promising future in the state. The programs on this list should gear you with all the skills you need to perform as an entry-level medical assistant.

1. Manchester Community College, Medical Assistant Associate Degree

Manchester Community College‘s Medical Assistant Associate Degree fosters an interdisciplinary take on learning medical office administration, clinical processes, and the values and ethics associated with such a profession. The program includes advanced training in medical assistance and the choice of electives. Its foundation delivers a basis for analytical skills that lead to national certification, successful careers, and life-long learning.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Estimated Cost Per Credit: $215
• Required Credits to Graduate: 62
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

2. River Valley Community College, Certificate in Medical Assistant

River Valley Community College offers a Certificate in Medical Assistant that can be taken on-campus or online. The program only has 12 seats available. It entails completing 560 didactic hybrid hours in 18 weeks, then a 160-hour internship in a clinical setting.

• Program Length: 22 weeks
• Tuition Cost: $6,500 (including books)
• Required Credits to Graduate: N/A
• Accreditation: CAAHEP

3. White Mountains Community College, Certificate in Medical Assistant

The Certificate in Medical Assistant offered by White Mountains Community College emphasizes team-based learning, medical ethics, and professionalism. It includes the whole certificate curriculum and extra studies on mathematics, critical thinking seminars, liberal arts, and electives. It also allows students to transfer credits in the Associate of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a Medical Assisting concentration.

• Program Length: N/A
• Cost Per Credit: $215 (resident); $323 (New England regional students); $490 (nonresident)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 37
• Accreditation: CAAHEPq

4. University of New Hampshire, Certificate Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

University of New Hampshire teaches diagnostic testing, patient confidentiality processes, preparing operation rooms, and more through its CCMA offering. Students can take this medical assistant programs in New Hampshire online. It is also open enrollment, which means students can register and begin with it whenever they’re ready.

• Program Length: 1 year
• Tuition: $2,999
• Required Credits to Graduate: N/A
• Accreditation: CAAHEP

5. Great Bay Community College, Medical Assistant Certificate

Great Bay Community College is one of the best medical assistant schools New Hampshire students can enroll in. In partnership with Core Physicians and Wentworth-Douglass Physician Corp, Great Bay offers a Medical Assistant Certificate program that teaches skills mandated by regional employers. This program is developed to fulfill the standards established by the ACT.

• Program Length: 12 weeks
• Cost Per Credit: $215 (resident); $323 (New England regional students); $490 (nonresident)
• Required Credits to Graduate: N/A
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

What To Look For in a Medical Assistant School & Program in New Hampshire

When perusing medical assistant programs in New Hampshire, carefully assess all the significant factors. The goodwill the school or program holds can be transmitted to your resume once you start looking for jobs. There is much to pay attention to, such as accreditation, facilities, exam preparation, and job placement assistance.

• Accreditation. Medical assistant programs in New Hampshire accredited by either the CAAHEP or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) are the ones you should set your eyes on.
• Facilities and resources. Access to innovative equipment and resources is integral for hands-on learning. Examine the school’s classrooms, laboratories, and clinical training areas.
• Certification exam preparation. Ensure the program can prepare you for the AAMA, CMA, or other relevant certification exams.
• Job placement assistance. Ask about the program’s job placement rates and the help it provides in finding employment. Connections with local healthcare facilities and a robust alumni network can be favorable.

It’s important to note that medical assisting programs can be just the first step towards advanced healthcare education, especially if you realize you want a better-paying healthcare career. Advanced degrees, such as a traditional or online MPH degrees and courses, may mean more work, but they also present better job prospects and a higher salary.

Can Medical Assistants Transition into Pharmacy Roles in New Hampshire?

Medical assistants interested in diversifying their healthcare careers may consider exploring pharmacy roles as an alternative pathway. Transitioning into the pharmacy sector requires additional training and an understanding of state-specific licensure requirements that differ from those for medical assisting. Candidates should evaluate specialized education programs and certification opportunities to align their clinical experience with the competencies needed in pharmaceutical care. For detailed guidance on educational prerequisites and licensing steps, review how to become a licensed pharmacist in New Hampshire. This strategic move can open up new prospects in both clinical and retail pharmacy environments while leveraging the existing skill set of medical assistants.

Can Expanding Administrative and Technical Skills Enhance a Medical Assistant’s Career in New Hampshire?

By integrating administrative and technical competencies, medical assistants can increase their versatility and open doors to advanced roles without leaving clinical practice. Diversifying skill sets to include expertise in electronic billing, coding, and regulatory compliance can position professionals as valuable intermediaries between patient care and healthcare management. For example, strengthening knowledge in areas such as claims processing and digital record management can lead to improved efficiency in clinical settings and greater opportunities for career growth. Additionally, targeted online education programs, including medical billing and coding online courses, provide a practical avenue for skill development that is both flexible and cost-effective.

How Do Regulatory Standards Impact Medical Assistant Practices in New Hampshire?

Medical assistants in New Hampshire must adhere to a dynamic framework of state and federal regulations that ensure patient safety and data privacy. Compliance with standards such as HIPAA, alongside evolving state-specific guidelines, requires professionals to stay current on best practices and legal mandates. Academic programs and continuing education courses have adapted to incorporate these regulatory updates, which strengthen clinical competency and administrative accuracy throughout healthcare facilities. Additionally, targeted training in regulatory compliance can prepare medical assistants for increased responsibilities in administrative and coding roles. For those aiming to further diversify their skill set, detailed guidance is available on How to become a medical biller and coder in New Hampshire?.

Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities for Medical Assistant Students in New Hampshire

Pursuing a career as a medical assistant in New Hampshire can be a rewarding journey, but the cost of tuition and related expenses may pose challenges for some students. Fortunately, there are several financial aid options and scholarship opportunities available to help mitigate these costs and make quality education more accessible.

Types of Financial Aid Available

Students can access federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This can determine eligibility for grants like the Pell Grant, federal student loans, and work-study programs. Additionally, many schools in New Hampshire offer institutional scholarships that students can apply for directly through their financial aid offices.

State-funded programs, such as the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, also provide grants and scholarships specifically for healthcare students, including those pursuing medical assisting programs. Moreover, some organizations in the state award need- or merit-based scholarships to students enrolled in accredited medical assistant programs.

Employer-Sponsored Programs

For students already working in healthcare facilities, employer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship programs may help cover the cost of continuing education. Some hospitals and clinics in New Hampshire partner with local schools to support employees pursuing certifications and degrees in healthcare fields.

Specialized Healthcare Scholarships

National organizations, such as the American Medical Technologists (AMT) and the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), offer scholarships targeted at medical assistant students. These scholarships reward applicants who exhibit academic excellence and a clear dedication to advancing their careers in healthcare.

Exploring Additional Opportunities

If you're exploring flexible pathways, consider online medical assistant programs. These can sometimes be cost-effective compared to traditional classroom settings. Additionally, students preparing to further their medical career might also be interested in alternative certifications like sonography, which offers pathways even through online education. For more information on accelerated programs, check out 1-year sonography programs online.

By taking advantage of financial aid and scholarship options, aspiring medical assistants in New Hampshire can reduce their financial burden and focus on achieving their career goals. Both institutional and external resources provide valuable support, ensuring that finances don't become a barrier to entering the rapidly growing medical assistant profession.

How Can Medical Assistants Transition to Becoming an LVN Nurse in New Hampshire?

Medical assistants interested in expanding their scope of practice can consider the LVN pathway, which emphasizes enhanced patient care and technical proficiency. Transitioning typically requires enrollment in accredited bridging programs that focus on advanced clinical skills, pharmacology, and patient care protocols. Professionals should review state-specific licensure requirements and pursue targeted hands-on training to align their existing competencies with LVN responsibilities. For detailed steps and additional guidance, refer to our post on how to become an LVN nurse in New Hampshire.

What are the prerequisites for obtaining a nursing license in New Hampshire?

Medical assistants looking to advance their careers by obtaining a nursing license should start by understanding the state-specific prerequisites that facilitate a seamless transition. A careful review of program accreditation, clinical hour requirements, and examination criteria is essential before enrolling in bridge or advanced degree programs. Prospective candidates are advised to assess detailed guidelines regarding curriculum adjustments, supervised clinical training, and the submission of requisite documents. For comprehensive information, please refer to our article about the nursing license requirements in New Hampshire. This ensures that all preparatory steps are met before taking the licensure examination and proceeding with advanced career decisions.

Job Outlook for Medical Assistants in New Hampshire

The demand for medical assistants in New Hampshire is poised for steady growth in the coming years, making it an excellent career choice for those entering the healthcare field. According to the latest projections from the New Hampshire Employment Security, the medical assistant profession is expected to experience a 5% increase in job openings by 2030. This growth is driven by several factors, including an aging population, advancements in medical technology, and an increasing demand for healthcare services across both urban and rural areas.

As healthcare continues to embrace electronic health records (EHR) and other digital tools, the role of medical assistants is evolving. Medical assistants are now expected to be proficient in handling EHR systems, managing patient data securely, and ensuring the smooth integration of new technologies into daily workflows. The growth in telemedicine and virtual healthcare platforms is also likely to increase demand for medical assistants who are comfortable working with both in-person and online patient interactions. It is also important to have more insight into the expected salary range for medical assistants in New Hampshire or how much medical assistants make in the state and across the country to check which state is the right fit for you to work as a medical assistant.

Can Medical Assistants Transition to Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in New Hampshire?

Medical assistants with established clinical competencies may explore a transition into licensed practical nursing as an alternative career advancement pathway. This shift involves enrolling in accredited LPN programs that offer accelerated curricula tailored to build on existing patient care experience. Key considerations include ensuring eligibility for state licensure, meeting clinical practicum requirements, and adapting to a regulated scope of practice distinct from medical assisting roles. For streamlined guidance on program selection and application procedures, review how to become an LPN fast in New Hampshire.

How can medical assistants transition to becoming a nurse practitioner in New Hampshire?

Medical assistants seeking to expand their scope and advance within healthcare can consider transitioning into nurse practitioner roles. This progression typically involves enrolling in accredited nursing programs, meeting prerequisite coursework, and obtaining clinical experience relevant to advanced practice. A clear understanding of graduate program requirements, licensure examinations, and continuing education is essential to facilitate a smooth transition. For detailed guidance on the steps, explore how to become a nurse practitioner in New Hampshire.

What Are the Professional Development Opportunities Available?

Medical assistants in New Hampshire can enhance their expertise and career prospects by engaging in structured professional development. Local workshops, industry conferences, and specialized continuing education courses offer practical insights into emerging clinical practices and healthcare regulations. Additionally, online learning platforms provide flexibility in earning credits necessary for certification renewals and skill diversification. For those aiming to expand into leadership and administrative functions, pursuing a master in healthcare administration online programs can offer targeted training to bridge clinical and managerial competencies. Engaging with professional associations and subscribing to sector-specific publications further supports staying informed about technological advancements and innovative care practices.

Can Medical Assistants Transition to Radiologic Technology Roles in New Hampshire?

Medical assistants’ proficiency in patient care, anatomy, and clinical procedures can provide a strategic foundation for transitioning into radiologic technology roles. While this shift requires completing specialized training in imaging modalities and understanding radiation safety protocols, it offers an opportunity to develop advanced technical skills and contribute to diagnostic teams. For professionals considering this pathway, evaluating accredited radiology programs and certification prerequisites is essential. Read our guide on how to become a radiology technician in New Hampshire for detailed guidance on entering this sector.

What Matters Most in the Medical Assistant Role

Whether you take vital signs, access medical benefits, do blood draws, or do any other clinical procedure, what you do always matters. As a medical assistant, you have the education, clinical training, and skills needed for a healthcare career, and you can be part of a valuable workforce of allied healthcare professionals where your supervisors and colleagues recognize what you do.

Above all, your training, skills, and compassion can make a huge difference in the lives of your patients and those that are important to them.

References:

• New Hampshire Employment Security. (2023). Economic Analysis Report. Retrieved October 10, 2023, from New Hampshire Employment Security.
• New Hampshire Employment Security. (2023). Vital Signs 2023: Economic & Social Indicators for New Hampshire. Retrieved October 10, 2023, from New Hampshire Employment Security.
• O*NET. (n.d.). New Hampshire Employment Trends. Retrieved October 10, 2023, from O*NET.
• O*NET. (n.d.). New Hampshire Wages. Retrieved October 10, 2023, from O*NET.