If you want the salary and stability of a healthcare career without spending several years in school, a medical assistant degree could be your next step. Building entry-level medical and administrative skills, this degree prepares you to assist doctors and nurses in healthcare settings.
Explore our guide to medical assistant colleges online, including popular career paths, certification options, and ways to save on tuition.
Degree at a Glance
Typical Program Length: 9-24 months
Typical Admission Requirements: High school diploma
Top Skills Gained: Medical terminology, exam room procedures, administrative procedures
Popular Concentrations: Phlebotomy, healthcare studies
Featured Online Healthcare Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Medical Assistant Programs
Price Check
Many community colleges offer medical assistant programs, allowing you to complete your degree at a relatively affordable tuition rate.
Why Choose a Medical Assistant Degree?
A medical assistant degree prepares you to enter the healthcare field quickly, gaining relatively high pay with fewer required classes. You can complete many programs mostly or fully online, making the degree a practical choice if you need to work while attending school.
Some medical assistant certificate programs may also let you transfer credits toward an associate or bachelor's degree. This can help you keep your options open if you want to pursue further education in the healthcare field.
Career Outlook for Medical Assistant Graduates
Many healthcare jobs are projected to show strong growth in the coming decade, largely due to an aging population that will create demand for medical services. The table below highlights popular careers for medical assistants. Keep in mind that some of these positions, such as LPNs, require additional education beyond an initial certification.
| Job | Annual Median Wage, May 2024 |
|---|---|
| Medical Assistant | $44,200 |
| Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars | $67,310 |
| Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides | $66,050 |
| Phlebotomists | $43,660 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | $62,340 |
Medical Assistant Licensing and Certification Requirements
You don't always need licensure or certification to work as a medical assistant. However, earning a certification can make you more competitive for jobs. To obtain certification, you'll need to show your education credentials and pass an exam. Certification is available through two organizations:
Talk to your medical assistant program or prospective employers to determine which certification exam suits your career goals.
Ways to Save on a Medical Assistant Degree
You have many ways to save on your medical assistant degree. Consider the following options when researching different programs and medical assistant colleges online.
Scholarships and Grants
Fill out the FAFSA to learn about your eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants. You can also research private scholarship opportunities online.
Tuition Discounts
Compare programs to understand how much your online program should cost and find potential tuition savings opportunities. Public schools often offer discounts for in-state students, and some programs may offer tuition discounts for online learners.
Tuition Assistance
If you already work in the medical field, your employer may offer tuition assistance programs to help you pay for continuing education.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assistants earned an annual median salary of $44,200 as of May 2024. However, salary depends on factors such as location, experience, and industry of employment.
