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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that in May 2022, North Carolina had a workforce of 20,620 medical assistants who performed various administrative and clinical tasks within healthcare settings, such as managing appointments and recording vital signs (BLS, 2023).

To kickstart a medical assistant career in North Carolina, one typically requires postsecondary education, either in the form of a certificate or an associate degree from one of the medical assistant schools in North Carolina. However, individuals who have healthcare jobs with a business administration degree can also explore opportunities in medical assisting, leveraging their skills to contribute to the healthcare industry. Alternatively, some aspiring medical assistants may start their careers with only a high school diploma and acquire the essential skills through on-the-job training.

At Research.com, our team has conducted comprehensive research into the process of pursuing a medical assistant career in North Carolina. In this article, we will outline this process and list medical assistant schools in North Carolina that meet the educational standards necessary for prospective medical assistants in 2024.

Best Medical Assistant Schools in North Carolina Table of Contents

1. Is being a Medical Assistant a good job in North Carolina?
2. What are the steps to becoming a Medical Assistant in North Carolina?
3. Medical Assistant Program Length in North Carolina
4. Tuition and Costs of Medical Assistant Programs in North Carolina
5. North Carolina Schools Offering Medical Assistant Programs for 2025
6. What to Look for in Medical Assistant Schools in North Carolina
7. What are the scholarships available for medical assistant programs in North Carolina?
8. What Additional Certifications Can Enhance My Medical Assisting Career?
9. Can Medical Assistants Transition to Advanced Clinical Roles?
10. How Does an Associate Degree Impact Your Earning Potential as a Medical Assistant in North Carolina?
11. How Can You Explore Additional Healthcare Licensure Opportunities in North Carolina?
12. How Can Additional Online Allied Health Training Enhance My Medical Assisting Career?
13. Accelerated Medical Assistant Programs in North Carolina: A Fast-Track Path to Success
14. How Can Medical Assistants Transition to LPN Roles in North Carolina?
15. Employment Opportunities for Medical Assistants in North Carolina
16. Can Medical Assistants Transition to Allied Health Roles Like Radiology?
17. Can Additional Certifications Elevate Your Medical Assisting Career?
18. What Are the Pathways for Medical Assistants to Transition to an LVN Role?
19. How Do Regulatory and Licensing Updates Impact Medical Assisting Careers in North Carolina?

Is being a Medical Assistant a good job in North Carolina?

The 2030 employment outlook for medical assistants in North Carolina indicates a projected workforce of 23,370, marking a 19.2% growth rate in the profession over the coming decade. Furthermore, there are anticipated to be around 2,860 job openings annually until 2030 (Projections Central, 2021).

Additionally, jobs for healthcare management graduates are expected to continue offering career opportunities in North Carolina, as the healthcare industry continues to grow and evolve.

Regarding remuneration, the average yearly income for medical assistants in North Carolina presently registers at $42,036. This statistic represents the mean salary within a range that extends from $32,192 to $54,889 (Indeed, 2023).

What are the steps to becoming a Medical Assistant in North Carolina?

To become a medical assistant in North Carolina, an aspiring candidate must follow these steps:

• Meet the minimum requirements: In North Carolina, a high school diploma or GED is a minimum requirement to find employment as a medical assistant.
• Pursue an accredited medical assistant program: Although enrolling in a training program for medical assistants is not required to practice in North Carolina, completing one of these programs will help establish your expertise and lay the foundation for a rewarding career as a medical assistant. Look for programs accredited by recognized accrediting bodies, such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
• Earn national certification: While certification is not required by law in North Carolina, taking advantage of these options is a good idea. This will amp up your resumé and show employers you are serious about your craft. You can obtain medical assistant certification from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the American Medical Technologists (AMT).
• Find a job in Medical Assisting: Once you have completed a formal medical assisting program and national certification, you can begin your job search by checking out the opportunities available through some of the state’s largest healthcare systems.
• Maintain your professional credential: To maintain your certification, you must complete continuing education, membership fees, and recertification.

What professional skills are essential for a successful career as a Medical Assistant in North Carolina?

Aspiring medical assistants in North Carolina should focus on developing a variety of essential professional skills to ensure success in their careers. Here are key skills to cultivate:

• Clinical Skills: Proficiency in performing clinical tasks such as taking vital signs, administering injections, assisting with minor surgeries, and conducting EKGs. These skills are crucial for providing quality patient care.
• Administrative Skills: Strong organizational abilities to manage patient records, schedule appointments, handle billing, and process insurance claims efficiently.
• Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication is vital for interacting with patients, healthcare professionals, and insurance companies. Clear communication helps in building rapport with patients and ensuring they understand their treatment plans.
• Attention to Detail: Medical assistants must pay close attention to detail to accurately record patient information, follow protocols, and ensure that medications and treatments are administered correctly.
• Interpersonal Skills: Empathy and compassion are essential for providing emotional support to patients. Being approachable and friendly can enhance patient satisfaction and comfort.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems and medical software is increasingly important in modern healthcare settings.
• Time Management: The ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively is essential for juggling multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.

Medical Assistant Program Length in North Carolina

Diploma programs at medical assistant schools in North Carolina typically last for one year, while associate degree programs in medical assisting extend over two years. The latter option offers a more comprehensive and in-depth education in medical assisting.

This distinction can be particularly relevant for healthcare administration degree graduates considering a career shift into the field of medical assisting.

Tuition and Costs of Medical Assistant Programs in North Carolina

The cost of tuition and related expenses at medical assistant schools in North Carolina varies depending on the type of program. Diploma programs can range from $2,432 to $8,913, while associate degree programs for medical assistants may involve expenses spanning from $6,600 to $9,245.

North Carolina Schools Offering Medical Assistant Programs for 2025

Below, you will find details on the top five medical assistant programs in North Carolina, including information about program type, duration, clinical training hours, program expenses, and the accrediting organization involved.

Stanly Community College

The Medical Assisting program at Stanly Community College is designed to prepare versatile healthcare professionals capable of conducting administrative, clinical, and laboratory tasks.

The curriculum covers a range of subjects, including how to schedule appointments, manage insurance accounts through coding and processing, handle billing and collections, and navigate the ethical and legal aspects of patient care.

Graduates of this program can explore employment opportunities in various healthcare settings, including physicians’ offices, health maintenance organizations, health departments, and hospitals.

As a helpful tip, individuals aspiring to pursue a career in medical assisting are encouraged to consider taking courses in biology, mathematics, and typing before enrolling in the program. Admissions into the Medical Assisting program take place during the fall semester.

• Program Type: Diploma and Associate Degree
• Program Length: One year (diploma); Two years (associate degree)
• Clinical Practice Hours: 160
• Program Cost: $2,794 $9,245
• Accreditation: CAAHEP

Richmond Community College

Richmond Community College‘s Medical Assisting program encompasses training in aiding with medical examinations and treatments, executing standard laboratory procedures, conducting electrocardiography, and administering medications under supervision.

Successful graduates of their accredited medical assisting programs may have the opportunity to take the AAMA’s Certification Examination, leading to their certification as Medical Assistants. Potential career pathways include working in physicians’ offices, health maintenance organizations, health departments, and hospitals.

Notably, graduates from Richmond Community College’s program achieved an impressive 100% passage rate on the National Certification Exam in 2020.

• Program Type: Diploma
• Program Length: One year
• Clinical Practice Hours: 160
• Program Cost: $8,912.17
• Accreditation: CAAHEP

Gaston College

The Gaston College Medical Assisting Program is structured to equip students for careers in Medical Assisting within various private or public healthcare settings. The program strongly emphasizes adhering to the rigorous standards set by CAAHEP. The educational curriculum is designed to prioritize essential subjects and impart the knowledge and skills required to commence a successful career in medical assisting.

Gaston College, situated in Dallas, North Carolina, specializes in offering allied health programs. The institution currently boasts an undergraduate student enrollment of 5,633. Remarkably, Gaston College maintains an impressive 100% acceptance rate.

• Program Type: Diploma
• Program Length: One year
• Clinical Practice Hours: 160
• Program Cost: $6,429
• Accreditation: CAAHEP

Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College offers two distinct programs in Medical Assisting: a diploma and an associate degree.

The Medical Assisting Diploma is geared towards preparing students for entry-level positions in medical assisting. This program covers fundamental subjects like anatomy, medical terminology, administrative, and clinical procedures. It includes a clinical practicum for hands-on healthcare experience.

Meanwhile, the Medical Assisting Associate in Applied Science Degree program offers a more comprehensive education in medical assisting. This program includes additional coursework in medical insurance coding, drug therapy, and keyboarding, in addition to the core curriculum. Like the diploma program, it also features a clinical practicum.

Both programs at Vance-Granville Community College combine theory, simulation, and hands-on training to develop the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective learning domains necessary for a career in medical assisting. Upon graduation from either program, students will possess the skills and knowledge to perform various administrative and clinical tasks in medical assisting.

• Program Type: Diploma and Associate Degree
• Program Length: One year (diploma); Two years (associate degree)
• Clinical Practice Hours: 160
• Program Cost: $4,137 $6,599.50
• Accreditation: CAAHEP

Wake Tech

The Medical Assisting program at Wake Tech is available as a one-year diploma and a two-year Associate in Applied Science degree. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in medical assisting. It includes basic anatomy and physiology courses, medical terminology, administrative office procedures, and lab procedures. Students will also complete a clinical practicum, providing hands-on experience in real-world healthcare.

Upon completing the program, graduates will be competent in performing administrative and clinical duties, such as taking vital signs, preparing patients for examinations, assisting with medical procedures, and managing medical records. The program also has an apprenticeship component, which is designed to comply with CAAHEP Standards and Guidelines for the Accreditation of Educational Programs in Medical Assisting.

• Program Type: Diploma and Associate Degree
• Program Length: One year (diploma); Two years (associate degree)
• Clinical Practice Hours: 160
• Program Cost: $2,432 $8,576
• Accreditation: CAAHEP

What to Look for in Medical Assistant Schools in North Carolina

When looking for the best online healthcare degrees or medical assistant schools in North Carolina, it is important to consider several factors to ensure that the program maintains high-quality standards and effectively prepares students for their future careers. Here are essential factors to bear in mind:

Accreditation

Accreditation guarantees the medical assistant program adheres to rigorous quality standards regarding the practice to help students with their professional journeys. Seek out programs accredited by well-recognized accrediting organizations, such as CAAHEP or ABHES.

Workforce Readiness

Clinical training hours are a vital element of medical assistant programs, allowing students to practice their acquired knowledge and skills within a real healthcare environment.

Furthermore, it is advisable to seek out programs that provide job placement support or have established partnerships with healthcare institutions, as these can greatly assist graduates in securing employment post-graduation.

Cost

Consider the expenses of attending medical assistant schools in North Carolina and determine if it aligns with your budget. Seek out programs that provide financial assistance or scholarship opportunities to help alleviate the burden of tuition expenses.

Reputation

What are the scholarships available for medical assistant programs in North Carolina?

Pursuing a medical assistant program in North Carolina is an investment in a promising career, but tuition and related expenses can be a challenge for many students. Fortunately, there are a variety of financial aid options and scholarships available to help offset these costs, making education more accessible even for those enrolling in a ma to lpn bridge program online.

Federal Financial Aid

Students enrolled in accredited medical assistant programs in North Carolina may qualify for federal aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Available options include:

• Pell Grants: Need-based grants that do not require repayment.
• Federal Direct Loans: Low-interest loans with options for income-driven repayment plans.

State-Specific Financial Assistance

North Carolina offers several financial aid programs tailored to state residents:

• North Carolina Community College Grant Program: Provides need-based financial aid for students attending community colleges in the state.
• NC Education Lottery Scholarship: Available for students demonstrating financial need and enrolled at eligible institutions.

Scholarships for Healthcare Students

Many organizations and institutions offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing careers in healthcare, including:

• North Carolina Health Careers Access Program (NC-HCAP): Scholarships aimed at increasing diversity in healthcare professions.
• Institution-Specific Scholarships: Schools like Gaston College and Stanly Community College often provide merit-based or need-based scholarships for medical assistant students.

What Additional Certifications Can Enhance My Medical Assisting Career?

In today’s dynamic healthcare environment, obtaining additional certifications can broaden a medical assistant’s scope of practice and open doors to specialized roles. Focus areas such as phlebotomy, EKG technology, medical billing and coding provide valuable extensions to the fundamental clinical and administrative skills developed through accredited programs. Furthermore, complementary training in nutrition offers the opportunity to engage in integrated patient care and wellness strategies. Interested individuals can explore further details on how to become a nutritionist in North Carolina.

Can Medical Assistants Transition to Advanced Clinical Roles?

Medical assistants seeking long-term professional growth may transition into advanced clinical roles by pursuing further education and specialized certifications. This pathway often involves enrolling in bridge programs, obtaining additional degrees in nursing, and gaining hands-on experience to develop advanced clinical skills. Targeted training in patient assessment, diagnostic interpretation, and therapeutic interventions is essential for those aiming to expand their scope of practice. Reviewing structured pathways and prerequisites can assist in navigating career advancement opportunities, including the transition to roles such as nurse practitioner. For comprehensive guidance, explore how to become a nurse practitioner in North Carolina.

How Does an Associate Degree Impact Your Earning Potential as a Medical Assistant in North Carolina?

Medical assistant professionals holding an associate degree often experience distinct financial advantages compared to those with shorter training programs. Data analysis indicates that an associate degree can play a pivotal role in achieving higher initial compensation and improved long-term earning trajectories. Detailed studies and state-specific insights, including metrics on entry-level wages, bonus eligibility, and career advancement opportunities, highlight the benefit of additional education when assessing career growth.

Reviewing data on the medical assistant associate degree salary provides industry-specific information that assists prospective students in making informed decisions. This comparison of compensation between different educational paths underscores the value of further academic investment in a competitive healthcare market.

How Can You Explore Additional Healthcare Licensure Opportunities in North Carolina?

For professionals in the healthcare field, expanding licensure options can open pathways to roles with greater responsibilities and financial rewards. While medical assisting emphasizes on-the-job training and certification, pursuing additional licensure, such as transitioning into pharmacy or other allied health areas, can complement your existing skill set and offer broader career flexibility. For example, if you are considering a shift into pharmacy, review the steps outlined in how to become a licensed pharmacist in North Carolina to understand state-specific requirements, educational prerequisites, and licensure examinations. This approach not only diversifies your professional portfolio but also aligns with evolving industry trends in North Carolina's expanding healthcare landscape.

How Can Additional Online Allied Health Training Enhance My Medical Assisting Career?

Additional online certifications in allied health fields can broaden a medical assistant’s professional scope and increase marketability in a competitive healthcare environment. Targeted online training equips professionals with specialized competencies that complement their core clinical and administrative skills, leading to advanced responsibilities in diagnostic support and patient care. For instance, focused digital coursework—such as those available through ultrasound tech programs online—provides targeted skill enhancement without interrupting current career paths. This approach not only diversifies expertise but also demonstrates commitment to continual professional development, ultimately contributing to long-term career growth in the evolving healthcare sector.

Accelerated Medical Assistant Programs in North Carolina: A Fast-Track Path to Success

For individuals eager to launch their medical assistant careers quickly, accelerated programs offer a streamlined and efficient educational pathway. These programs are ideal for career changers, recent graduates, or working professionals looking to transition into the healthcare sector with minimal disruption to their schedules.

What Are Accelerated Medical Assistant Programs?

Accelerated medical assistant programs are intensive training courses designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the healthcare field in a shorter timeframe. These programs focus on the core competencies required for medical assisting, including both clinical and administrative skills, and often incorporate hands-on training through externships or practicum opportunities.

Finding the Right Accelerated Program

When selecting an accelerated program, it is essential to consider accreditation, curriculum, and support services. Programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) provide the highest quality education and ensure eligibility for certification exams.

For those seeking a program that combines speed and quality, explore options like a medical assistant degree online 6 weeks. These programs are designed to fit your schedule while preparing you for a rewarding healthcare career.

How Can Medical Assistants Transition to LPN Roles in North Carolina?

Transitioning from a medical assistant role to that of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is an attractive option for professionals seeking increased responsibility and improved compensation. This pathway typically requires enrollment in an accredited LPN program, completion of targeted clinical training hours, and successful passage of state licensure examinations. Prior experience as a medical assistant may shorten the training period by recognizing relevant clinical competencies and practical skills. For professionals eager to accelerate this career progression, explore how to become an LPN fast in North Carolina.

Employment Opportunities for Medical Assistants in North Carolina

Medical assistants in North Carolina have a robust job market with diverse opportunities across various healthcare settings. The state’s healthcare sector is expanding, driven by population growth and advancements in medical technology, creating an increased demand for qualified medical professionals.

Medical assistants can find employment in physicians' offices, hospitals, outpatient care centers, and even specialized healthcare facilities such as dermatology or cardiology clinics. Larger metropolitan areas like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro typically offer more job openings and higher salary prospects due to the concentration of healthcare providers.

For those seeking roles beyond traditional clinical settings, opportunities also exist in administrative capacities, including healthcare management and insurance claims processing. For individuals interested in advancing further in the healthcare field, exploring how to become a nurse in North Carolina can open doors to both clinical and leadership opportunities. These roles are particularly suited for individuals with additional certifications or prior experience in business administration.

Additionally, medical assistants in North Carolina who earn national certifications like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) are highly preferred by employers. Certification demonstrates competence and professionalism, often leading to better job prospects and higher salaries. Networking through professional organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or attending local career events can also enhance employment opportunities.

Ultimately, the employment landscape for medical assistants in North Carolina is diverse and growing, offering numerous ways to build a thriving career in this essential healthcare profession.

Begin Your Career Journey With the Medical Assistant Schools in North Carolina

To become a medical assistant in North Carolina, an aspiring candidate must meet the minimum requirements, pursue an accredited medical assistant program, earn national certification, and maintain their professional credential. By following these steps, candidates can ensure they are well-qualified medical assistants in North Carolina.

It is important to emphasize that the mentioned medical assistant schools in North Carolina maintain accreditation from reputable entities like CAAHEP, ABHES, or other well-recognized accrediting bodies for medical assistant programs. Furthermore, these institutions include clinical practice hours within their medical assistant programs to ensure students gain practical experience in authentic healthcare settings.

For graduates of these programs looking to attain specialized certifications, several organizations, including AAMA and AMT, provide certifications in the field of medical assisting.

If you are interested in pursuing further studies in healthcare, you might also be curious about “what is an MPH degree." An MPH, or Master of Public Health, is a graduate-level degree focusing on public health practice, research, and policy.

Can Medical Assistants Transition to Allied Health Roles Like Radiology?

Medical assistants seeking to diversify their skill set and explore broader healthcare opportunities may consider a transition into allied health roles such as radiologic technology. This pathway offers a chance to build on existing clinical competencies while acquiring specialized technical expertise in imaging procedures. Professionals interested in this transition can pursue targeted training programs and certification that align with industry standards, thereby enhancing career flexibility and opening doors to advanced technical roles. For detailed information on the requirements and certification process, refer to our article on how to become a radiology technician in North Carolina.

Can Additional Certifications Elevate Your Medical Assisting Career?

In today’s competitive healthcare environment, supplementing core clinical and administrative skills with additional certifications can create opportunities for career advancement. Pursuing dual certifications, for instance by integrating billing and coding expertise, can broaden your professional scope and potentially increase your earning potential. For detailed guidance on leveraging these complementary credentials, explore How to become a medical biller and coder in North Carolina?.

What Are the Pathways for Medical Assistants to Transition to an LVN Role?

Transitioning from a medical assistant role to a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) position can expand your clinical responsibilities and enhance career growth. Medical assistants interested in this transition should evaluate state-specific educational standards, acquire additional clinical practice hours, and prepare for rigorous licensing examinations. Building on existing clinical experience while engaging in structured and accredited LVN programs is a proven method to streamline this career change. For detailed guidance on program requirements, curriculum design, and practical training opportunities, review our guide on how to become a LVN nurse in North Carolina.

How Do Regulatory and Licensing Updates Impact Medical Assisting Careers in North Carolina?

Staying informed about evolving state regulations is essential for medical assistants aiming to advance professionally. Recent updates in state policies and licensure requirements can influence scope of practice, career mobility, and continuing education options. Professionals should regularly review authoritative sources, such as the nursing license requirements in North Carolina, to ensure they meet all current regulatory standards and capitalize on opportunities for career progression.

Key Insights

• High Demand for Medical Assistants: North Carolina is projected to have a 19.2% growth rate for medical assistant jobs by 2030, resulting in approximately 2,860 job openings annually.
• Competitive Salaries: The average annual salary for medical assistants in North Carolina is $42,036, with potential earnings ranging from $32,192 to $54,889.
• Educational Pathways: Aspiring medical assistants can pursue a one-year diploma or a two-year associate degree from accredited programs, which enhances their employment prospects.
• Accredited Programs: Programs accredited by organizations like CAAHEP or ABHES are recommended for ensuring quality education and better job placement opportunities.
• Importance of Certification: While not mandatory, earning national certification can significantly enhance employability and career advancement opportunities.
• Clinical Experience: Most programs include clinical practice hours, providing hands-on experience in real healthcare settings, which is crucial for workforce readiness.
• Financial Considerations: Tuition costs vary widely, with diploma programs ranging from $2,432 to $8,913 and associate degree programs from $6,600 to $9,245.

FAQ

Is being a Medical Assistant a good job in North Carolina?

Yes, being a medical assistant in North Carolina is a promising career due to the high demand for medical assistants, competitive salaries, and the projected job growth rate of 19.2% by 2030.

What are the steps to becoming a Medical Assistant in North Carolina?

The steps include meeting the minimum requirement of a high school diploma or GED, enrolling in an accredited medical assistant program, earning national certification, finding a job in medical assisting, and maintaining your professional credential through continuing education.

How long do Medical Assistant programs take to complete in North Carolina?

Diploma programs typically take one year to complete, while associate degree programs take about two years.

What are the tuition costs for Medical Assistant programs in North Carolina?

Tuition costs for diploma programs range from $2,432 to $8,913, while associate degree programs range from $6,600 to $9,245.

What are some top Medical Assistant schools in North Carolina?

Top medical assistant schools in North Carolina include Stanly Community College, Richmond Community College, Gaston College, Vance-Granville Community College, and Wake Tech.

Is national certification necessary to work as a Medical Assistant in North Carolina?

While national certification is not required by law in North Carolina, it is highly recommended as it enhances job prospects and demonstrates a commitment to the profession.

What is the average annual salary for Medical Assistants in North Carolina?

The average annual salary for medical assistants in North Carolina is $42,036.

What accrediting bodies should I look for when choosing a Medical Assistant program?

Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

What kind of clinical experience is included in Medical Assistant programs?

Most programs include clinical practice hours, typically around 160 hours, providing hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.

Are there financial aid options available for Medical Assistant programs in North Carolina?

Yes, many programs offer financial aid or scholarship opportunities to help offset the cost of tuition. It is recommended to check with individual schools for specific financial aid options.

References:

• BLS. (2023, April 25). North Carolina - May 2022 OEWS state occupational employment and wage estimates. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nc.htm
• Indeed. (2023). Medical assistant salary in North Carolina. https://www.indeed.com/career/medical-assistant/salaries/NC
• Projections Central. (2021). Long-Term occupational Projections | Projections Central. https://projectionscentral.org/Projections/LongTerm