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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Medical assistants are trained professionals who perform a wide range of administrative and clinical tasks. They are versatile members of the healthcare system and often serve as the first point of contact for patients in a healthcare facility.

According to statistics, about 114,600 job openings will be available for medical assistants each year on average from 2022 to 2032 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). This demand not only presents ample job opportunities but also offers a promising career path with opportunities for advancement within the field of healthcare.

In this guide, we will be discussing what it is like to work as a medical assistant in New York and how you can become one. We will also list down medical assistant schools in New York, including the things you should look for when choosing the program that you can enroll in.

Best Medical Assistant Schools in New York Table of Contents

Is being a medical assistant a good job in New York?
What are the steps to becoming a medical assistant in New York?
Medical Assisting Program Length in New York
Tuition and Costs of Medical Assisting Programs in New York
What are the scholarship opportunities for medical assisting students in New York?
New York Schools Offering Medical Assisting Programs for 2025
What to Look for in a Medical Assisting Program in New York
Opportunities for Further Specialization and Career Growth
How Can I Transition from a Medical Assistant to an Advanced Healthcare Role?
How Can I Become a Certified Medical Assistant in New York?
Challenges and Considerations for Medical Assistant Students in New York
Can Expanding Your Skillset in Nutrition Enhance Your Medical Assisting Career?
Can a Medical Assistant Background Facilitate a Transition Into Pharmacy?
How Can Supplementary Training in Medical Billing and Coding Advance My Career?
How Can Advanced IT Training Strengthen My Healthcare Role?
How Can I Accelerate My Licensing and Certification Process in New York?
How Can I Transition from Medical Assisting to an LVN Role in New York?
What Are the Nursing License Requirements in New York?
How Can I Apply My Skills to Become a Radiology Technician in New York?

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

Based on our research, working as a medical assistant in New York can be a good job since the profession is expected to grow by 27% between 2020 and 2030 (NY State Department of Labor, 2023). The increasing demand for medical assistants in New York is driven by several factors, such as the ongoing expansion of healthcare facilities and more outpatient centers in the state.

New York’s commitment to improving healthcare access and quality, combined with advancements in medical technology, also plays a role in the positive job outlook for medical assistants. These factors create a conducive environment for career growth and job stability within the profession. There are plenty of medical assistant schools in New York, online and on-campus, that you can choose from, including those that offer courses in healthcare administration.

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

Medical assistants in New York earn an average of $46,434, which is higher than most salaries for the same profession in other states (Salary.com, 2023). In comparison, the salary for medical assistants in California is $43,588, $38,846 in Texas, $40,605 in Illinois, and $38,538 in Indiana (Salary.com, 2023). As such, many individuals would benefit from working as medical assistants in New York.

If you want to know the medical assistant schools in New York requirements, here are the things you need to complete:

The first thing you need to do is obtain a high school diploma or GED.
Complete a medical assisting program from medical assistant schools in New York accredited, which can take one to two years and result in a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. You can also learn how to become an EKG technician during this process.
Consider obtaining certification through national organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants or American Medical Technologists. You may also look for free medical assistant training in NYC.
Complete an internship or externship to gain hands-on experience. You can then work as a professional in the field. You can also opt to proceed in your educational journey and obtain an MBA in healthcare management.

What are the career advancement opportunities for medical assistants in New York?

Medical assistants in New York can explore several paths for career advancement, expanding both their responsibilities and earning potential. Here are some options to consider:

Specialized Certifications: Obtaining additional certifications, such as in phlebotomy, EKG technology, or radiology, can allow medical assistants to handle more specialized clinical tasks and increase their marketability.
Supervisory Roles: With experience, medical assistants may advance to supervisory positions, overseeing other medical assistants or administrative staff within healthcare settings.
Medical Office Management: Transitioning to medical office management can be a next step for those interested in managing clinic operations, staff scheduling, and patient flow.
Healthcare Administration: Pursuing further education in healthcare administration (e.g., an associate or bachelor’s degree) can open up opportunities for administrative roles within larger healthcare organizations or hospital settings.
Nursing or Allied Health Careers: Some medical assistants use their experience as a stepping stone to become registered nurses (RNs) or other healthcare professionals by enrolling in bridging programs.

Medical Assisting Program Length in New York

For those who want to obtain a certificate or diploma in medical assisting, you can expect those programs to last around eight to 18 months. These types of programs are often more streamlined, with emphasis on job functions specific to medical assisting, and they cost less than degree programs.

Another education path you can choose is a degree program in medical assisting, which can either be an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree. However, the most common is an associate’s degree that takes about two years to complete (Monroe College, 2020). An associate’s degree includes a broader curriculum that encompasses general education courses in addition to medical-assisting-specific coursework.

Tuition and Costs of Medical Assisting Programs in New York

When it comes to the costs of medical assistant schools in New York, it can vary depending on the program type and whether it is offered by a private or public school. An online/hybrid certificate or diploma program in medical assisting in New York will usually cost around $3,199, excluding the textbooks and other academic materials (CCNY, 2023). On the other hand, an associate’s degree in medical assisting can cost around $10,000 for in-state students and $20,000 for out-of-state students (NCCC, 2023).

According to statistics, there are 35,270 medical assistants working in New York, making it the fourth state with the highest number of medical assistants employed (NY State Department of Labor, 2023). As a result, many individuals opt to study the profession in the state to become certified medical assistants.

What are the scholarship opportunities for medical assisting students in New York?

Pursuing a career as a medical assistant in New York can be an exciting and rewarding journey, but the associated costs might seem overwhelming for some students. Fortunately, several scholarship opportunities are available to ease the financial burden and make education more accessible.

State-sponsored scholarships: New York State offers various grants and scholarships for residents pursuing healthcare-related programs. For example, the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) provides financial aid based on income eligibility.
Institution-specific scholarships: Many schools offering medical assisting programs in New York provide their own scholarships. Institutions like Monroe College and Niagara County Community College often have merit-based or need-based scholarships tailored for medical assisting students.
National healthcare scholarships: Organizations like the American Medical Technologists (AMT) and the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) offer scholarships to students pursuing medical assistant certifications. These awards often require applicants to demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to the field.
Community and private foundation grants: Local healthcare organizations and private foundations, such as the New York Community Trust, often provide scholarships for medical students. These programs can vary widely in eligibility and award amounts.
Employer tuition reimbursement programs: Some employers in New York may offer tuition assistance or reimbursement for employees pursuing medical assistant training. This can be an excellent option for those already working in healthcare.

For those exploring online education options, consider looking into affordable online medical assistant programs. These programs can reduce costs while providing flexibility in scheduling. Combining scholarships with online learning can make your education both cost-effective and convenient.

New York Schools Offering Medical Assisting Programs for 2025

If you are planning to start your educational journey, here are some of the best medical assistant schools New York has to offer:

Monroe College

Monroe is a private and for-profit college that offers an on-campus associate’s degree in medical assisting. This medical assisting program offers targeted and career-focused skills such as billing, handling of equipment, administrative tasks, and basic medical care for patients. Monroe College also holds practicums for students, where they get to work hands-on in a mentored environment.

Program Length: Two Years
Tracks/concentrations: N/A
Cost per credit: $663
Required Credits to Graduate: 64
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

Niagara County Community College

NCCC offers a medical assistant, (A.A.S. degree) to prepare individuals in entry-level administrative and clinical knowledge and skills. Their medical assistant program includes a 160-hour practicum in a healthcare setting, and graduates of this program are immediately eligible to apply for the national certification.

Program Length: Two Years
Tracks/concentrations: N/A
Cost per credit: $156 (in-state), $312 (out-of-state).
Required Credits to Graduate: 64
Accreditation: CAAHEP

City College of New York

CCNY offers an online/hybrid certified medical assistant program that includes courses on both administrative and clinical tasks for MAs. Students have the option to enroll in this program fully online or on campus. However, their laboratory sessions as part of the clinical training are mandatory to be on-campus.

Program Length: 320 hours
Tracks/concentrations: N/A
Cost per credit: $620
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Medical Training Institute of New York

The MTI of New York offers a hybrid medical assistant program that covers a variety of subjects, including medical practice, medical law and ethics, medical communications, and basic laboratory procedures. Students enrolled in this program are required to complete a supervised clinical externship at a medical facility.

Program Length: 720 hours
Tracks/concentrations: N/A
Program Cost: $8,250
Accreditation: New York State Board of Education

New York Medical Career Training Center

NYMCTC offers a medical assistant (RMA) program that includes diverse courses on how to develop your skills as a medical professional. Their courses include anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. They also have courses on phlebotomy, EKG, medical billing, medical office administration, and laboratory procedures and techniques.

Program Length: 900 hours
Tracks/concentrations: N/A
Program Cost: $11,900
Accreditation: Council on Occupational Education

What to Look for in a Medical Assisting Program in New York

For those who are planning on pursuing a career as a medical assistant in New York, you should also consider which healthcare setting you want to work in. In New York, 63% of MAs work in physician offices, 13.2% work in hospitals, and 12.7% work in outpatient centers and offices of health practitioners. The remaining 10.8% of the workforce is employed in other settings, such as colleges and universities (NY Health Foundation, 2023).

When choosing among the many medical assistant schools in New York, here are some things you should look for:

Accreditation: Look for medical assistant schools in New York that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the other higher education accrediting bodies. You can also find free medical assistant schools in New York that are accredited.
Certification: Consider programs that prepare you for certification exams, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcareer Association’s (NHA) Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam.
Program Length: Consider the length of the program and whether it fits your schedule and career goals. Some programs may also allow you to enroll in dual courses, allowing you to also pursue a career path for physical therapy.
Curriculum: Look for medical assistant schools in New York that cover both administrative and clinical skills, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical billing and coding, and patient care.

Opportunities for Further Specialization and Career Growth

Whether you’re just stepping into the field of healthcare or already working as a medical assistant in New York, the profession offers abundant opportunities for specialization and career advancement. Many medical assistants choose to diversify their skill set and take on specialized roles in areas such as dermatology, cardiology, or pediatrics. These roles often come with additional certifications and training, but they can significantly enhance your career prospects and salary.

Furthermore, some professionals opt to advance their careers by transitioning into related fields like healthcare administration, nursing, or becoming a physician assistant. For instance, if you’re interested in taking a bigger step, exploring a comprehensive program like a physician assistant master’s degree could be a worthwhile option. Online education has made such programs more accessible. You can learn more about accredited options by visiting this guide on the best physician assistant school online.

Investing in continuous learning and professional development not only opens doors to higher-paying roles but also allows you to contribute meaningfully across various healthcare settings. Specialized certifications and advanced degrees can be key stepping stones to building a long-lasting and fulfilling career in healthcare.

How Can I Transition from a Medical Assistant to an Advanced Healthcare Role?

Transitioning into advanced healthcare roles requires strategic planning, certification upgrades, and specialized clinical experience. Professionals should assess further education options that align with career growth, including targeted degree programs and niche certifications. Evaluate prerequisites, program duration, and financial commitments to determine the most effective pathway. For guidance on advanced practice roles and optimized career transitions, review how to become a nurse practitioner in New York.

How Can I Become a Certified Medical Assistant in New York?

Achieving professional certification is a strategic step that can enhance your career prospects in New York’s competitive healthcare landscape. Prospective candidates should explore state-approved pathways by selecting programs that integrate comprehensive clinical and administrative training. After completing an accredited course, focus on preparing for standardized exams through dedicated study resources and exam preparation courses. Earning credentials as a certified medical assistant not only validates your competencies but also positions you for specialized roles and career advancement in diverse healthcare settings.

Challenges and Considerations for Medical Assistant Students in New York

While pursuing medical assisting education in New York offers abundant opportunities, students should be prepared to navigate certain challenges that are unique to the state. One significant factor is the competitive admission process for medical assistant programs, as top schools often have limited spots and require strong academic performance. Prospective students should ensure they meet all prerequisites and submit applications early to maximize their chances of acceptance.

Another consideration is the high cost of living in New York, particularly in metropolitan areas like New York City. Expenses such as housing, transportation, and everyday necessities can add up quickly, requiring careful financial planning. Students may need to balance part-time work with their studies or explore living in nearby, less expensive regions while attending school.

Additionally, students must consider licensing and certification preparation while studying. Although certification isn’t mandatory in New York, employers increasingly value it, and preparing for exams like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) designation demands dedicated effort. Planning for this extra step can streamline the job search process post-graduation.

Finally, adapting to the fast-paced healthcare environment in New York can also be a challenge. Medical facilities often operate under high-pressure conditions, requiring students and newly graduated medical assistants to develop excellent time-management and stress-handling skills.

By recognizing and addressing these hurdles, students can set themselves up for a rewarding experience and ultimately thrive as medical assistants in New York’s dynamic healthcare landscape. For those considering broader opportunities in the field, exploring how to become a nurse in New York can provide valuable insights and open additional pathways to a fulfilling healthcare career.

Should I study in New York to become a medical assistant?

When considering whether to study to become a CMA in New York, it is important to remember that medical assistant schools in New York offer varying program types and lengths. Therefore, before enrolling, it is best to assess whether you prefer a 4-week medical assistant program or other types that are more comprehensive and longer.

The cost of living can be higher in New York compared to other states. Even if you have a decent medical assistant or surgical technician salary, this can also impact your long-term financial plans. This is something that you should also take into consideration when deciding whether you study in New York and work as an MA in the state.

Can Expanding Your Skillset in Nutrition Enhance Your Medical Assisting Career?

Medical assistants can differentiate themselves by incorporating nutrition expertise into their skillset. By understanding key nutritional principles and interventions, professionals can contribute to comprehensive patient care and collaborate more effectively with dietitians and other healthcare providers. This additional competency supports integrated wellness programs and can lead to opportunities for specialized roles within patient education and preventive care. For more information on developing this complementary expertise, please review how to become a nutritionist in New York.

Can a Medical Assistant Background Facilitate a Transition Into Pharmacy?

Medical assistants develop a solid foundation in patient care, clinical procedures, and healthcare administration. This background can be advantageous for professionals considering a career change into pharmacy, where a deep understanding of clinical settings and patient management is vital. Transitioning into pharmacy typically requires meeting additional academic prerequisites, undertaking specialized training, and completing licensure examinations. Evaluating these requirements and aligning them with your existing skillset is an essential step. For a detailed guide on the process and necessary qualifications, review how to become a licensed pharmacist in New York.

How Can Supplementary Training in Medical Billing and Coding Advance My Career?

Acquiring expertise in medical billing and coding not only broadens the scope of a medical assistant’s role but also enhances administrative precision within healthcare settings. This additional qualification can lead to improved efficiency, streamlined patient billing processes, and more diverse career paths, including roles in practice management and healthcare finance. Enrolling in programs offered by accredited medical billing and coding schools online with financial aid provides the flexibility of online study combined with targeted training, enabling professionals to adapt to evolving industry standards and regulatory requirements.

How Can Advanced IT Training Strengthen My Healthcare Role?

Medical assistants proficient in advanced information technology are better equipped to handle evolving digital solutions in healthcare, including the management of electronic health records and telehealth systems. Integrating IT training enhances efficiency in data handling and supports seamless communication between clinical and administrative teams. For professionals seeking to diversify their administrative expertise, dedicated programs—such as how to become a medical biller and coder in New York—offer targeted insights into streamlining billing processes and improving coding accuracy, thereby expanding career opportunities.

How Can I Accelerate My Licensing and Certification Process in New York?

Pursuing additional licensing can diversify your skillset and open higher-level opportunities within healthcare. Exploring streamlined certification programs, targeted exam preparations, and specialty courses can reduce downtime between academic training and professional practice. For instance, leveraging courses designed for rapid transition into advanced clinical roles can be a strategic move. Refer to How to become an LPN fast in New York? for detailed guidance on expediting your path to licensure.

How Can I Transition from Medical Assisting to an LVN Role in New York?

Medical assistants aiming to enhance their clinical responsibilities may consider transitioning to a Licensed Vocational Nurse role in New York. This pathway involves undertaking targeted clinical training to build on existing patient care proficiencies. Prospective LVNs are advised to review state-approved programs, meet specific prerequisites, and complete hands-on practicum experiences designed to align with New York’s regulatory standards. For detailed program requirements and strategic career planning, refer to our article on how to become a LVN nurse in New York.

What Are the Nursing License Requirements in New York?

Understanding state-specific licensure is essential for professionals advancing into nursing roles from allied health fields. New York mandates that candidates meet rigorous academic, clinical, and examination standards to ensure competence and patient safety. Prospective nurses must complete an accredited educational program with a specified number of clinical hours, followed by successful completion of the state licensure exam and any additional background or continuing education requirements. It is crucial to review these parameters carefully to align your career progression with regulatory standards. For comprehensive details, refer to our article on the nursing license requirements in New York.

How Can I Apply My Skills to Become a Radiology Technician in New York?

Medical assistants who are interested in expanding their career portfolio may consider transitioning into radiologic technology. This specialty leverages existing patient care expertise while requiring targeted training in imaging procedures, radiation safety, and equipment operation. Evaluating these specialized requirements can help align your clinical background with the technical competencies essential for the role. For detailed guidelines and educational pathways, refer to our guide on how to become a radiology technician in New York.

Key Insights

High Demand and Job Growth: Medical assistants are in high demand, with 114,600 job openings expected annually from 2022 to 2032. In New York, the profession is projected to grow by 27% between 2020 and 2030, driven by the expansion of healthcare facilities and outpatient centers.
Competitive Salaries: Medical assistants in New York earn an average salary of $46,434, which is higher than the national average and salaries in many other states, making it a financially rewarding career choice.
Educational Pathways: New York offers various medical assisting programs, including certificate, diploma, and associate degree programs, with program lengths ranging from eight months to two years. These programs are available both online and on-campus.
Accreditation and Certification: When choosing a medical assisting program, it is crucial to look for accredited schools and programs that prepare students for certification exams such as the CMA and CCMA.
Diverse Work Settings: Medical assistants in New York can work in a variety of settings, including physician offices, hospitals, outpatient centers, and other healthcare facilities, providing flexibility in career choices.

FAQ

What are the job prospects for medical assistants in New York?

The job prospects for medical assistants in New York are promising, with a projected growth rate of 27% between 2020 and 2030. This demand is driven by the expansion of healthcare facilities and the need for more outpatient care services.

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

The average salary for a medical assistant in New York is $46,434, which is higher than the national average and salaries in many other states, making it a lucrative career choice.

What educational requirements are needed to become a medical assistant in New York?

To become a medical assistant in New York, you need to obtain a high school diploma or GED, complete a medical assisting program (which can result in a certificate, diploma, or associate degree), and consider obtaining certification from national organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants or American Medical Technologists.

How long does it take to complete a medical assisting program in New York?

The length of medical assisting programs in New York varies. Certificate or diploma programs typically last eight to 18 months, while an associate degree program usually takes about two years to complete.

How much do medical assisting programs in New York cost?

The cost of medical assisting programs in New York varies depending on the type of program and the institution. Certificate or diploma programs can cost around $3,199, while associate degree programs can cost about $10,000 for in-state students and $20,000 for out-of-state students.

What should I look for in a medical assisting program in New York?

When choosing a medical assisting program in New York, consider factors such as accreditation, certification preparation, program length, curriculum, and the type of healthcare setting you wish to work in after graduation.

What are some of the best medical assistant schools in New York?

Some of the top medical assistant schools in New York include Monroe College, Niagara County Community College, City College of New York, Medical Training Institute of New York, and New York Medical Career Training Center. These schools offer various programs and have strong accreditation.

Is certification necessary to work as a medical assistant in New York?

While certification is not mandatory to work as a medical assistant in New York, it is highly recommended as it can enhance job prospects and earning potential. Certification can be obtained through exams offered by organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants and the National Healthcareer Association.

What types of work settings are available for medical assistants in New York?

Medical assistants in New York can work in a variety of settings, including physician offices, hospitals, outpatient centers, and other healthcare facilities. This diversity provides flexibility in career choices and opportunities for specialization.

Should I consider the cost of living in New York when deciding to study and work as a medical assistant there?

Yes, the cost of living in New York is higher compared to many other states, which can impact your long-term financial plans. It is important to consider this factor when deciding whether to study and work as a medical assistant in New York, despite the competitive salaries offered in the state.