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

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Medical assistants are an essential part of the healthcare workforce. They complete clinical and administrative jobs, optimizing day-to-day operations at healthcare facilities and making sure everything runs smoothly for patients and their doctors and nurses. This is why the demand for these professionals is high and the job growth is much faster than average. In the United States, the employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 14% from 2022 to 2032, with an average of about 114,600 job openings projected each year over this 10-year period (BLS, 2023).

The medical assistant job outlook in New Jersey is just as good, in fact even better. The employment of medical assistants in the state is projected to grow 24% from 2020 to 2030, with 2,770 projected job openings every year over that period (O*NET OnLine, 2022). So if you’re considering a career as a registered medical assistant in the Garden State, this in-depth guide is for you. Our team at Research.com has gathered information on the best New Jersey medical assistant programs and schools, the certification process, and the medical assistant requirements in New Jersey.

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

Is a medical assistant a good job in New Jersey?
What are the steps to becoming a medical assistant in New Jersey?
Length of New Jersey Medical Assistant Programs
Tuition and Costs of New Jersey Medical Assistant Programs
What to look for in a medical assistant program in New Jersey?
New Jersey Schools Offering Medical Assistant Programs for 2025
Financial Aid Options for Medical Assistant Students in New Jersey
Can I Transition to Other Healthcare Careers from Medical Assisting?
What are the job market trends for medical assistants in New Jersey?
What are the specializations for medical assistants in New Jersey?
Can My Medical Assisting Background Lead to a Career in Public Health?
Accelerated Medical Assistant Programs in New Jersey: Fast-Track Your Healthcare Career
Is Transitioning from Medical Assisting to an LPN Role a Strategic Move?
How can I transition from medical assisting to advanced nursing roles?
Can I Leverage My Medical Assisting Skills for a Career in Pharmacy?
Can I Transition into a Healthcare Billing and Coding Role?
Is becoming an LVN a viable next step after medical assisting?
Can I Transition into a Registered Nursing Role?
How Can I Transition from Medical Assisting to Radiology Technology?

Is a medical assistant a good job in New Jersey?

Being a medical assistant is a good job in New Jersey. There is a growing demand for medical assistants in the state, and medical assistants can earn a decent salary and have a variety of job opportunities.

Medical assistant salary in New Jersey is $42,030 on average per year, or $20.21 per hour. This is higher than the $40,700 national mean annual wage for the same occupation, but it is expected considering that the cost of living is higher in New Jersey. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the per capita personal consumption expenditures (PCE) of New Jersey is $54,700, which is higher than the national average per capita PCE of $47,915 (BEA, 2022).

So exactly how much does a medical assistant make? The more years of experience you have as a medical assistant, the higher your wage. Your salary also depends on your area. Those who work in more populated metropolitan areas earn more than those working in rural areas.

There are a variety of medical assistant jobs in New Jersey. You can work in hospitals, clinics, physician’s offices, nursing facilities, and other healthcare settings. Moreover, the opportunities for advancement are endless. Medical assistants in New Jersey can advance their careers by taking on additional responsibilities or by pursuing higher education and training. For example, you can choose to become a medical technician, registered nurse, or physician assistant.

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

To become a certified medical assistant in New Jersey, you need to follow these steps:

Complete any of the accredited New Jersey medical assistant programs.
Pass the certification examination.
Land your first medical assistant job in New Jersey.
Maintain your medical assistant certification in New Jersey.

Complete a medical assistant program

There are no specific licensing laws for medical assistants in New Jersey, but the New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners encourages candidates to obtain national certification.

Before you can apply for national certification as a medical assistant, you first need to complete a medical assisting program. You can choose from a number of accredited medical assistant programs in New Jersey.

The program has to be accredited by either the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Accredited medical assistant training programs in New Jersey guarantee that you will earn eligibility to take a national certification examination, as well as ensure that they include the education and practical training you need to serve as a competent, entry-level medical assistant.

Among the medical assistant certification programs in New Jersey, there are currently five that are CAAHEP-accredited and seven that are ABHES-accredited. Regardless of which program it is, you can expect a similar course of education and practical training in medical assisting.

Aspiring medical assistants in New Jersey should have the following skills and qualities:

Analytical skill
Organization
Attention to detail
Verbal communication
Professionalism
Scheduling
Customer focus
Infection control
Supply management
Ability to create a safe, effective environment
Bedside manner
Medical teamwork
Confidentiality

So come to think of it, the qualities and skills prerequisites for nursing school and other schools for healthcare professionals can be quite similar to the skills requirements for medical assistants.

Pass the certification exam

Once you’ve completed your medical assistant program, you need to apply to take a national certification examination and pass. The two most widely recognized certifications in medical assisting are:

the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) for a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
the American Medical Technologists (AMT) for a Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)

Other national medical assistant certifications you can pursue are:

the National Association of Health Professionals (NAHP) for nationally registered certified medical assistants (NRCMA)
the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) for certified clinical medical assistants (CCMA)
the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) for medical assistants (NCMA)

You can pick from one of these certifications and take its respective exam. Each certification body also has its own set of requirements for its certification exam.

Pursue a medical assistant job in New Jersey

After passing a national certification exam, you can start looking for professional opportunities through some of New Jersey’s largest healthcare systems. Once you have a medical assistant job in New Jersey, you can then become a member of a professional organization like the New Jersey State Society of Medical Assistants, the New Jersey State Society of AMT, or the state chapter of the AAMA. This will give you the chance to stay updated on the latest in the profession or healthcare industry. It will also allow you to connect and network with other medical assistants through seminars and other events, as well as to qualify for various continuing education opportunities to maintain your national credential.

Maintain your medical assistant credential

A CMA certification is valid for five years. Before it expires, you must either retake the certification/recertification exam or complete 60 units of continuing education units.

Meanwhile, if you have an RMA credential, you need to renew it annually and complete 30 certification points every three years through the AMT’s Certification Continuation Program.

What are the key responsibilities of a medical assistant in New Jersey?

Understanding the key responsibilities of medical assistants is crucial for aspiring professionals in New Jersey. Here’s a concise overview:

Clinical Duties: Assist with patient examinations, take vital signs, prepare patients for procedures, and perform basic laboratory tests.
Administrative Tasks: Manage patient records, schedule appointments, and handle billing and coding for insurance claims.
Patient Interaction: Communicate effectively with patients to explain procedures and provide support during their visits.
Medical Equipment Maintenance: Ensure that medical equipment is properly maintained and sterilized before use.
Collaboration: Work closely with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide quality care.
Regulatory Compliance: Adhere to safety and infection control protocols in compliance with healthcare regulations.
Continuing Education: Engage in ongoing training to stay updated with medical practices, technologies, and legal regulations.

Length of New Jersey Medical Assistant Programs

The length of New Jersey medical assistant programs varies. Medical assistant diploma and certificate programs usually take 10 to 12 months to complete. Meanwhile, programs for associate medical assistant degrees can be completed in two years.

Associate degree programs take longer because they have a general education core curriculum that includes courses such as communications, mathematics, and the social sciences.

It should be noted that there has been a recent shift in the requirements for a career in healthcare. More and more employers now prefer to hire healthcare professionals with a higher educational attainment. For example, employers now prefer to hire registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree than those with an associate degree. In the case of medical assistants, those with an associate’s degree are more marketable than certificate or diploma holders.

Tuition and Costs of New Jersey Medical Assistant Programs

Tuition and costs for medical assistant programs vary, depending on whether it’s a certificate program, a diploma program, or an associate degree program. The cost of attendance also depends on the medical assistant schools in New Jersey and your status as a student. Specifically, it depends on whether it’s a private or public school, whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student, and whether you’re studying full-time or part-time. Traditional on-campus programs are also typically more expensive than online programs.

To give you an idea, at Berkeley College, a private for-profit college, the full-time tuition per semester (which covers 12 to 18 credits) for undergraduate programs is $13,450. The full-year tuition is $26,900. Part-time tuition is $890 per credit.

Meanwhile, Bergen Community College, which is a public school, has a total tuition and fees of $212.75 per credit for in-county students, $373.40 per credit for out-of-county and non-immigrant visa holder students, and $389.75 per credit for out-of-state students.

What to Look For in a Medical Assistant Program in New Jersey

When choosing a medical assistant program in New Jersey, you have to consider the following:

Accreditation. While there are programs that are not accredited, it is still best to check out those with accreditation so you can qualify to become a CMA. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain standards of quality.

Program length and curriculum. Medical assistant programs typically last one to two years. Make sure the curriculum covers required and essential topics, such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, patient care, and administrative skills.

Clinical experience. The program should include clinical experience and hands-on training so that you can practice your skills in a real-world setting.

Job placement assistance. Some programs offer job placement assistance to their graduates. This can be helpful in finding a job after graduation.

Cost. Medical assistant programs can vary in cost. Compare the tuition and fees of multiple schools, and look into the school’s financial aid and scholarship programs.

Location. Consider the locations of the medical assistant programs. If you are from New Jersey, choose a program that is conveniently located and where you don’t need to pay for housing, meals, and transportation.

Also, consider your career goals, learning style, and budget when choosing a medical assistant program.

New Jersey Schools Offering Medical Assistant Programs for 2025

Research.com’s team of researchers listed down the best New Jersey medical assistant programs based on accreditation and academic excellence. We made sure to include both public and private institutions in our list for a variety of choices.

1. Berkeley College

Berkeley College offers two medical assistant programs:

Medical Assistant Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS)
Medical Assistant Certificate Program

Unlike other medical assistant programs, those who graduate from the college’s associate degree program also receive a certificate in medical assistant. Both programs are designed to equip students with the competency they need in the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective learning domains before they officially join the high-demand healthcare industry in various settings. This is why their curriculum includes patient care skills, general study, and business/administrative skills. They offer a strong foundation in both the theory and practice of clinical care.

Location: Newark, Woodbridge, Woodland Park
Status: Private
Type of program offered: Certificate, Associate’s
Accreditation: CAAHEP
Tuition and fees: $13,450 (full-time, per semester)

2. Eastwick College

Eastwick College offers a certificate program that teaches students how to perform basic medical assistant duties in New Jersey, such as scheduling patient appointments, maintaining medical records, billing and coding information for insurance, preparing patients for examination, helping doctors with patient examinations, taking and recording vital signs, drawing blood, preparing blood samples for laboratory tests, performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and electrocardiogram (EKG), and maintaining electronic medical records.

This 8- to 12-month program is not accredited, but graduates are eligible for an RMA certification.

Location: Hackensack, Nutley, Ramsey
Status: Private
Type of program offered: Certificate
Accreditation: N/A
Tuition and fees: $300 per credit

3. Bergen Community College

Bergen Community College offers a Medical Office Administrative Assistant Certificate program and an Associate of Applied Science degree (A.A.S.) Medical Office Assistant program.

The 30-credit certificate program trains students for administrative and management functions, whereas the 60-credit associate program trains students for administrative, management, and clinical duties. Both programs focus on administrative tasks like coding diagnoses and procedures, billing, electronic filing of medical records, processing insurance claims, and operating computers. The associate program has courses in social sciences, math, humanities, and natural sciences. You can choose between the two programs depending on your career goals.

Location: Paramus, NJ
Status: Public
Type of program offered: Certificate, Associate’s
Accreditation: N/A
Tuition and fees: $212.75 per credit (in-county) | $373.40 per credit (out-of-county/non-immigrant visa | $389.75 per credit (out-of-state)

4. Raritan Valley Community College

Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) offers a Medical Assistant Certificate program that prepares you for the CMA Exam by the AAMA or the RMA exam offered by the AMT. This 36-credit program requires students to obtain Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification from the American Heart Association, undergo a criminal history background check, and provide documentation of student liability insurance. Students must also provide results of a physical examination, Mantoux test, laboratory and urine drug screening, proof of immunizations, and current tetanus shot.

The second semester focuses on the clinical aspect and includes the study of various drug categories and their side effects, uses and dosage, pathophysiology, and phlebotomy. There is also a summer semester where you will complete an unpaid practicum.

Location: Branchburg, NJ
Status: Public
Type of program offered: Certificate
Accreditation: CAAHEP
Tuition and fees: $180 per credit (in-county) | $260 per credit (out-of-county or out-of-state)

5. Lincoln Technical Institute

Lincoln Technical Institute offers a medical assistant certificate program on three New Jersey campuses. The program prepares students to be multifunctional practitioners who are able to perform front office and clinical patient care duties, and basic urgent care procedures. Topics covered in its curriculum include anatomy, physiology, insurance billing and coding, medical terminology, electronic health records, aseptic technique, ethics, clinical procedures, universal precautions, minor surgical procedures, general skills in document formatting, and EKG. This program delivers practical preparation in the healthcare environment.

Students will need skill proficiency training through a series of professional development activities and seminars—like Student Success, Financial Literacy, and Professional Development—that are integrated into each course. The modules include Student Success, Financial Literacy, Professional Development, and Career Success.

Location: Iselin, Moorestown, Paramus
Status: Private
Type of program offered: Certificate
Accreditation: N/A
Tuition and fees: $20,240

Financial Aid Options for Medical Assistant Students in New Jersey

Financing your education is a critical consideration when pursuing a medical assistant program in New Jersey. Thankfully, there are several financial aid options available to ease the burden of tuition and related costs.

Federal and State Financial Aid Programs

Medical assistant students in New Jersey can take advantage of federal aid such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Based on your financial need, you could qualify for grants such as the Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), or federal work-study programs.

Additionally, state-based financial aid options include the New Jersey Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) and the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF), which assist low-income students attending one of the eligible schools in the state.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships specific to healthcare or medical assistant students might be offered by professional organizations, educational institutions, or nonprofit groups. For example, the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) provides scholarships to students enrolled in accredited medical assistant programs. Many schools like Raritan Valley Community College and Bergen Community College also have institution-specific scholarships based on merit or financial need.

Employer Sponsorships and Tuition Reimbursement

Some healthcare employers in New Jersey offer tuition reimbursement programs as part of their benefits package. If you're already working in a healthcare-related field, inquire with your employer about financial assistance or sponsorship agreements to fund your medical assistant training.

Payment Plans and Loans

Most schools provide flexible payment plans allowing students to spread out tuition costs over several months or semesters. Additionally, federal student loans, such as Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, are widely available for eligible students. Private loans are another option, but it’s advisable to exhaust federal aid opportunities first, as they usually come with lower interest rates and better repayment terms.

Community-Based Funding and Nonprofits

Community organizations and nonprofit foundations in New Jersey may also provide grants or scholarships for career-specific training, including medical assisting. Reach out to local healthcare organizations or workforce development boards for additional options.

Steps to Secure Financial Aid

Start by completing the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal and state financial aid.
Research scholarships and grants specific to healthcare careers or medical assistant programs.
Explore tuition assistance options through your employer or local community programs.
Consult the financial aid office at your chosen school—they can guide you on available resources and deadlines.

Taking advantage of these financial aid options can help you focus on your education without the strain of overwhelming costs, allowing you to embark on your medical assistant career with confidence. If you're considering other healthcare paths, learning how to become a nurse in New Jersey can also provide valuable insights and opportunities for professional growth.

Can I Transition to Other Healthcare Careers from Medical Assisting?

Experienced medical assistants can strategically build on their skill set to enter other specialized healthcare fields. Many professionals pursue further certifications or education to diversify their expertise and improve career prospects. For example, by adding targeted training in nutrition, you can expand your role within the healthcare team and address broader patient care needs. Explore practical steps and additional educational pathways, including how to become a nutritionist in New Jersey, to enhance your professional journey.

Are New Jersey medical assistant programs for you?

Pick one of the best New Jersey medical assistant programs, earn your certificate, diploma, or associate degree, and get certified. You can then join the healthcare industry and contribute to the health and well-being of NJ residents. But the best thing about it is that you can start earning your medical assistant or healthcare administration salary and perhaps even work towards an advanced education.

What are the job market trends for medical assistants in New Jersey?

Current labor statistics indicate robust growth in the demand for medical assistants, especially in urban and technologically advanced regions across New Jersey. Emerging trends show that healthcare facilities are increasingly integrating electronic health records, telemedicine, and advanced diagnostic tools into daily practice, thereby expanding the scope of responsibilities for medical assistants. Professionals who continuously update their knowledge and obtain additional certifications are better positioned to secure competitive roles in this dynamic market. Monitoring market advancements and opportunities for high paying medical jobs can further support career advancements and salary negotiations.

What are the specializations for medical assistants in New Jersey?

For medical assistants in New Jersey, specialization offers a pathway to increase earning potential, enhance professional skills, and take on more responsibilities. By focusing on a specific area of healthcare, medical assistants can position themselves for advanced roles and contribute more meaningfully to patient care.

Popular Medical Assistant Specializations

Pediatrics: Assisting with child-specific care, including immunizations, growth monitoring, and family education.
Cardiology: Performing EKGs, monitoring heart health, and assisting with stress tests.
Dermatology: Supporting dermatologists in procedures such as biopsies, cosmetic treatments, and patient education on skincare.
OB/GYN: Assisting with prenatal care, ultrasounds, and patient education related to women’s health.
Mental Health Support: Working alongside mental health professionals to assist in administrative and basic clinical tasks in therapy settings.

Benefits of Specializing

Higher Earnings: Specialists often command higher salaries due to their advanced skills.
Increased Demand: Specialized roles are highly sought after in healthcare, particularly in fields like cardiology and mental health.
Professional Fulfillment: Specializing allows medical assistants to focus on areas of personal interest and passion, leading to greater job satisfaction.

Steps to Specialize

Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as EKG Technician, Phlebotomy Technician, or Certified Dermatology Technician can demonstrate your expertise in a specific area.
Complete Advanced Training: Many New Jersey institutions offer training programs tailored to specialized fields.
Gain Practical Experience: Seek roles that allow you to work in your chosen specialty, even in entry-level capacities, to build relevant experience.
Consider Higher Education: Advanced roles in some specialties may require further education or bridge programs, such as ma to lpn bridge program online.

Can My Medical Assisting Background Lead to a Career in Public Health?

Medical assistants can build on their patient care experience to transition into public health roles that emphasize community-based initiatives, disease prevention, and health education. Integrating clinical skills with public health strategies may open opportunities in program management, health policy, and community outreach. Professionals interested in this pathway often pursue further education such as a Master of Public Health to gain a comprehensive understanding of population health trends and effective intervention methods. For those exploring this advancement, consider reviewing affordable online MPH programs to find a program that fits your career goals and schedule.

Accelerated Medical Assistant Programs in New Jersey: Fast-Track Your Healthcare Career

For those eager to begin their careers as medical assistants without spending years in traditional educational pathways, accelerated medical assistant programs in New Jersey offer an ideal solution. These fast-track programs are designed to provide essential training and skills in a condensed timeframe, allowing students to enter the healthcare field swiftly and efficiently.

What Are Accelerated Medical Assistant Programs?

Accelerated programs focus on delivering the foundational knowledge and hands-on experience required for medical assistant roles in a shorter duration. Typically ranging from 6 weeks to 6 months, these programs are an excellent choice for individuals who:

Need flexibility: Working adults or career changers seeking a new profession.
Require a fast-paced option: Students who want to quickly transition into the workforce.
Aim for targeted training: Those looking for programs focused on essential skills rather than extended general education.

Features of Accelerated Programs

Flexible Formats: Many programs combine online coursework with in-person clinical training, allowing students to learn at their own pace while gaining practical experience.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Despite the shorter timeline, programs cover key areas such as:
Certification Preparation: Graduates are prepared to sit for national exams like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), boosting employability.

When exploring options, ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards and prepares students for certification exams.

For those seeking a highly regarded option, consider exploring fast track medical assistant programs, which offer both flexibility and quality training.

Is Transitioning from Medical Assisting to an LPN Role a Strategic Move?

Medical assistants considering an intermediate step towards advanced nursing responsibilities may find that pursuing an LPN qualification offers distinct advantages. Leveraging clinical experience, professionals can build a solid foundation in patient care while gaining skills specific to practical nursing. This pathway not only broadens clinical competencies but also enhances opportunities for closer patient interaction and a smoother transition into broader nursing roles over time. Detailed guidance on streamlined programs can be explored through how to become an LPN fast in New Jersey, which outlines efficient strategies and program requirements tailored for those looking to upskill quickly.

How can I transition from medical assisting to advanced nursing roles?

Medical assistants looking to progress into advanced nursing positions can benefit from expanding their clinical expertise and embracing further education. By targeting specialized training programs that emphasize patient care management, differential diagnosis, and therapeutic interventions, professionals can position themselves for roles such as nurse practitioners. A focused approach that includes additional certification and a strong foundation in advanced medical practices is crucial. For detailed guidance on the qualifications, program prerequisites, and career pathways, explore how to become a nurse practitioner in New Jersey.

Can I Leverage My Medical Assisting Skills for a Career in Pharmacy?

Medical assistants possess versatile skills that can serve as a strong foundation for entering the pharmaceutical field. By building on your proficiency in patient care, administrative functions, and healthcare systems, you can pursue specialized training tailored to pharmacy operations. Transitioning into roles such as a pharmacy technician or progressing toward licensure may require targeted education, certification, and practical experience in medication management and regulatory compliance. For those interested in a regulated career shift, consider reviewing comprehensive guidelines on how to become a licensed pharmacist in New Jersey to determine the necessary requirements and pathway.

Can I Transition into a Healthcare Billing and Coding Role?

Medical billing and coding roles present an opportunity for medical assistants to diversify their career options by applying their understanding of clinical terminology and healthcare operations. These positions emphasize precise management of patient records, accurate coding, and adherence to regulatory guidelines—areas where prior clinical experience can offer a competitive advantage. For professionals seeking a clear pathway into this field, exploring accredited training and certification programs is essential to meet industry standards and enhance career prospects. Additionally, learn more about how to become a medical biller and coder in New Jersey to understand the specific educational requirements and job market trends.

Is becoming an LVN a viable next step after medical assisting?

For medical assistants seeking to expand their clinical responsibilities, pursuing an LVN pathway offers an opportunity to deepen patient care expertise and broaden professional scope. This transition involves meeting specific coursework and certification prerequisites that build on your existing clinical experience, streamlining your shift towards advanced nursing responsibilities. Evaluating program requirements, understanding state licensure regulations, and preparing for the necessary certification exam are essential components of this career move. For targeted guidance on program selection and the licensure process, please review the steps on how to become a LVN nurse in New Jersey.

Can I Transition into a Registered Nursing Role?

Transitioning from medical assisting to a registered nursing role leverages your clinical experience while requiring additional academic credentials and licensure. Many professionals pursue bridging programs designed specifically to build on their patient care competencies and align with advanced nursing standards. Aspiring registered nurses must obtain targeted education, complete extended clinical rotations, and successfully pass national nursing examinations. It is essential to review the nursing license requirements in New Jersey thoroughly to plan your pathway and ensure you meet all state-specific prerequisites.

How Can I Transition from Medical Assisting to Radiology Technology?

Medical assistants with a strong patient care foundation can strategically pivot into diagnostic imaging by acquiring specialized training and certifications in radiologic technology. This career shift leverages existing clinical expertise while demanding proficiency in operating imaging equipment and adhering to radiation safety protocols. Prospective radiology technicians should review program prerequisites and state licensure requirements to ensure seamless integration into the technical environment of radiologic services. For detailed guidance on educational pathways and certification, consider learning how to become a radiology technician in New Jersey.

Key Insights

High Demand for Medical Assistants: Employment of medical assistants in New Jersey is projected to grow by 24% from 2020 to 2030, with an estimated 2,770 job openings annually. This is higher than the national average growth rate, indicating strong job security and opportunities.
Competitive Salaries: The average annual salary for medical assistants in New Jersey is $42,030, which is higher than the national average. This can help offset the higher cost of living in the state.
Educational Requirements: Aspiring medical assistants in New Jersey need to complete an accredited medical assistant program. These programs ensure eligibility for national certification exams, which are crucial for better job prospects.
Accredited Programs: New Jersey offers various accredited programs through institutions like Berkeley College, Raritan Valley Community College, and Bergen Community College. Accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards of quality and prepares students adequately for the workforce.
Certification: After completing an accredited program, candidates must pass a national certification exam such as the CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) from AAMA or the RMA (Registered Medical Assistant) from AMT. Certification enhances employability and potential earnings.
Program Duration and Cost: Medical assistant programs in New Jersey can range from 10 to 12 months for certificate programs to two years for associate degrees. Tuition varies significantly between public and private institutions, with public schools generally being more affordable.
Clinical Experience: Programs typically include clinical experience, which provides hands-on training in real healthcare settings. This practical experience is essential for developing the skills needed to succeed as a medical assistant.

FAQ

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

To become a medical assistant in New Jersey, you need to complete an accredited medical assistant program, pass a national certification exam, secure a job, and maintain your certification through continuing education or recertification exams.

How long do medical assistant programs in New Jersey take to complete?

Medical assistant programs in New Jersey typically take 10 to 12 months for certificate programs and up to two years for associate degree programs.

What is the average salary for a medical assistant in New Jersey?

The average salary for a medical assistant in New Jersey is $42,030 per year, which is higher than the national average salary for this profession.

What are the accreditation bodies for medical assistant programs in New Jersey?

Accredited medical assistant programs in New Jersey are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

Do I need to be certified to work as a medical assistant in New Jersey?

While certification is not mandatory in New Jersey, it is highly recommended and can significantly enhance your job prospects and earning potential. Most employers prefer certified medical assistants.

What types of certification exams are available for medical assistants?

The most widely recognized certification exams for medical assistants include the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from the American Medical Technologists (AMT). Other certifications include the NRCMA, CCMA, and NCMA.

What should I look for in a medical assistant program?

When choosing a medical assistant program, consider factors such as accreditation, program length, curriculum, clinical experience opportunities, job placement assistance, cost, and location.

Are there online medical assistant programs available in New Jersey?

While many programs offer some online coursework, it is essential to ensure that the program includes hands-on clinical training, which is typically conducted in person. Check with individual schools to see if they offer hybrid or fully online options.

Can medical assistants in New Jersey advance their careers?

Yes, medical assistants in New Jersey can advance their careers by taking on additional responsibilities, pursuing further education and training, or specializing in areas such as medical technology, nursing, or healthcare administration.

References:

United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022 | 31-9092 Medical Assistants. BLS.
O*NET OnLine. (2022). New Jersey Employment Trend | 31-9092.00 Medical Assistants. O*NET OnLine.
United States Bureau of Economic Analysis. (2022, October 6). Personal Consumption Expenditures by State, 2021. BEA.