There are numerous resources available to help students prepare for their medical assistant exam. Depending on locality, Medical Assistants may be certified by different agencies and there will be some variations in the exams. However, the major emphases are the same across exams, and test-takers can find free or paid study materials.

Free Medical Assistant Exam Materials

Test-takers can use the internet to find free materials to help with the exam. At minimum, all certifying agencies offer an outline of the exam, available for download. Many students keep their textbooks until they fulfill their medical assistant education requirements. The combination of an outline and old textbooks are the best place to start studying. A quick search on the internet may reveal additional study materials, such as flashcards and worksheets that can be helpful. A public or school library can also be a resource to borrow study guides related to the exam, or borrow texts to help study different subjects that will be on the exam.

Low-Cost Exam Materials

The websites of certifying boards usually offer practice materials and study guides for a reasonable price. However, the most cost-effective resources will be online retailers that sell new and used books. Since most individuals that have previously taken the exam will only need their materials for a short time, they often sell them online at significantly reduced prices. Even editions of study guides that are one or two years old can be beneficial, since the content of the medical assistant certification exam does not frequently change. For individuals that did not keep their textbooks, online stores are also a cost-effective solution to purchase used books that can be used as study material.

Preparatory Courses

Many schools that offer Medical Assistant programs may offer free or reduced-price courses designed to help student prepare for the exam. In some instances, the students in the program may be required to attend them. Some of the certifying boards offer classes that help test-takers prepare for the exam. Registration for these classes may cost hundreds of dollars, but can be beneficial if an individual feels they cannot adequately prepare on their own.

By utilizing online materials, used study guides and libraries, test-takers can help keep costs down when preparing for the exam. If necessary, attending a preparatory course can help individuals prepare in a more structured environment. The vast number of resources available can help test-takers adequately prepare for their medical assistant exam, and increase the likelihood of passing.

Recommended Online Medical Assistant Programs!

Keiser University

Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting, AS

Independence University

You can advance your career 24/7 with online education at Independence University, your proven partner with over 30 years of experience in delivering quality distance education right to our students. Our programs are designed to allow you to continue working and earning as you pursue your online degree.

From associate's and bachelor's to master's degrees in health education and business, with Independence University you can achieve greater success through distance learning programs that suit your busy schedule, with experienced, student-oriented staff to assist you throughout your distance education.

Programs:

• AS - Occupational Studies in Medical Specialties
• AS - Respiratory Therapy
• BS - Completion in Respiratory Care with Management Concentration
• And more...

Allied Schools

Considering a new career or need additional job training? Whether you want to train for a new career, advance within your current company, or simply learn new skills to stay competitive in today's job market, Allied's distance education training can help! Because the courses are offered online and through traditional distance education, the stress associated with driving to and attending a live class is eliminated. Start your new career training today, start it with Allied Schools.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician Program

Ultimate Medical Academy Online

Boost your career with an education from Ultimate Medical Academy Online. We offer career-focused training in dental assisting, nursing assisting, medical billing and coding, basic x-ray, and more. Programs take as little as seven weeks.

Programs:

Harrison College

Get started on your career with an education from Harrison College. We offer more than 30 degree, certificate, and diploma programs in the fields of health sciences, veterinary technology, information technology, criminal justice, and business, in addition to our culinary arts academy.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assistant

Fortis Institute

Looking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.

Programs:

• Medical Administrative Assistant

Penn Foster Schools

Penn Foster offers affordable, self-paced career-focused distance education programs in fields like business, criminal justice, health services, technology, engineering, paralegal studies and more.

Programs:

• Dental Assistant
• Optician
• Pharmacy Technician
• And more...

Stratford Career Institute

Stratford Career Institute can help you earn your diploma from home in as little as six months, thanks to their proven study methods.

Programs:

• Health Care Aide
• Dental Assistant
• Pharmacist's Assistant
• And more...

Ashworth College

Get the hands-on training and skills it takes to succeed with Ashworth College, a respected, worldwide leader in distance education. Study at the times and places most convenient for you.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assisting

In the medical industry there are many kinds of assistants, including always-in-demand clinical medical assistants. A clinical medical assistant in smaller practices may handle clinical and/or administrative responsibilities, and report to the office manager, doctor or other health care provider. In a larger health care practice a clinical medical assistant may become a specialist in a niche area of medical care, so their duties will be more focused.

Clinical Medical Assistant Duties

Some of the basic duties of a clinical medical assistant may include, taking vital signs of a patient, preparing laboratory specimens for testing, recording medical histories, preparing patients before doctor examinations, instruct patients before they go through a procedure, applying bandages, taking weight and blood pressure before doctor exams, taking x-rays, maintaining exam rooms, cleaning and sterilizing tools and equipment, dispose used supplies with contamination protocols, even purchasing, and stocking exam rooms with medical supplies. A clinical assistant is similar to a nursing assistant but the primary responsibility is to prepare for the patient visit.

A clinical medical assistant may also do some clerical work in the office. Some of these duties may include, updating patient files, filling out insurance forms, and arranging appointments for patient lab work or hospital stays.

The assistant also needs to be a people person. They are expected to work closely with their patients answering phones, greeting patients and explaining procedures in greater detail.

What Determines the Assistant’s Responsibilities?

There are a few variables that may dictate or change the basic duties of a clinical medical assistant. First, the law may play a role in the legal duties of a clinical medical assistant depending on the state in which clinical medical assistant works. Second, If the clinical medical assistant chooses to work in a more specialized field, (such as in an Ophthalmic medical assistant) their duties would reflect the care of those patients. For example, an ophthalmic medical assistant (eye care assistant) would conduct diagnostic tests, measure and record vision, apply eye dressing, and instruct patients on eye care and contact lens use.

Are You Cut Out to Be a Clinical Medical Assistant?

Whichever avenue a clinical medical assistant chooses to go down one thing is clear; she is expected to wear many hats. The daily routine in this position is not easy, as the clinical medical assistant must have a broad skill set and be prepared to work long hours on their feet. Acquiring formal training through an online medical assistant program or other type of school is also a must.

One must truly be passionate and love to work with people to enjoy this profession. On the other hand, it is the ever-changing and exciting nature of the daily duties that makes the clinical medical assistant position so rewarding.

Recommended Online Medical Assistant Programs!

Keiser University

Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting, AS

Independence University

You can advance your career 24/7 with online education at Independence University, your proven partner with over 30 years of experience in delivering quality distance education right to our students. Our programs are designed to allow you to continue working and earning as you pursue your online degree.

From associate's and bachelor's to master's degrees in health education and business, with Independence University you can achieve greater success through distance learning programs that suit your busy schedule, with experienced, student-oriented staff to assist you throughout your distance education.

Programs:

• AS - Occupational Studies in Medical Specialties
• AS - Respiratory Therapy
• BS - Completion in Respiratory Care with Management Concentration
• And more...

Allied Schools

Considering a new career or need additional job training? Whether you want to train for a new career, advance within your current company, or simply learn new skills to stay competitive in today's job market, Allied's distance education training can help! Because the courses are offered online and through traditional distance education, the stress associated with driving to and attending a live class is eliminated. Start your new career training today, start it with Allied Schools.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician Program

Ultimate Medical Academy Online

Boost your career with an education from Ultimate Medical Academy Online. We offer career-focused training in dental assisting, nursing assisting, medical billing and coding, basic x-ray, and more. Programs take as little as seven weeks.

Programs:

Harrison College

Get started on your career with an education from Harrison College. We offer more than 30 degree, certificate, and diploma programs in the fields of health sciences, veterinary technology, information technology, criminal justice, and business, in addition to our culinary arts academy.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assistant

Fortis Institute

Looking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.

Programs:

• Medical Administrative Assistant

Penn Foster Schools

Penn Foster offers affordable, self-paced career-focused distance education programs in fields like business, criminal justice, health services, technology, engineering, paralegal studies and more.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician
• Occupational Therapy Aide
• Optician
• And more...

Stratford Career Institute

Stratford Career Institute can help you earn your diploma from home in as little as six months, thanks to their proven study methods.

Programs:

• Pharmacist's Assistant
• Health Care Aide
• Dental Assistant
• And more...

Ashworth College

Get the hands-on training and skills it takes to succeed with Ashworth College, a respected, worldwide leader in distance education. Study at the times and places most convenient for you.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assisting

If you are interested in becoming a medical assistant, below is an outline of the standard medical assistant requirements. You may find it surprising that becoming a medical assistant is very easy and has very few requirements. In about 14 months you could have a degree and be on your way to a rewarding career.

Standard Medical Assistant Requirements

The first step in becoming a medical assistant is to find out if you are eligible to take the exam. Simply go to the American Association of Medical Assistant’s web site and check out the CMA (AAMA) Certification/Recertification Exam eligibility. This web site is also great to for finding other information relating to the profession of medical assistants such as current issues, support groups, practice exams, potential employers, and salary.

The second step is to enroll and complete an accredited medical assistant program. It is important to make sure the school you have chosen is accredited.  You do not want to waste time with a program that is not. There are many schools offering accredited medical assisting programs online or in tradition classroom settings. Find a program that will fit your lifestyle best. Also note, you will have to complete a practicum (unpaid work experience), which is included in the curriculum.

The third step is to apply for the exam, also known as the CMA (AAMA) exam. You will need to first fill out an application, which can also be found on the American Association of medical assistant’s web site. At this time you will also have to pay an enrollment fee. The fee is $125. For members of the AAMA or a CAAHEP or ABHES completed student or recent graduate. All others will have to pay the full amount of $250. All fees are nonrefundable and nontransferable. If you are interested in becoming a member (to qualify for reduced application fee) go to the AAMA web site to find out more information.

The fourth step in becoming a medical assistant is to schedule an exam appointment. After you apply for the exam you will receive an email notifying you that your application has been approved and processed. This email will be sent to you via email no later then 20 days before your 90-day testing period begins. Once you receive this email, log onto the site and print out the scheduling permit. Next, make the exam appointment and make sure to bring the scheduling permit.

The Most Important Medical Assistant Requirement

The fifth and final step (aside from studying) is to take and pass the medical assistant certification exam. Once you pass the CMA exam you will receive a certificate verifying your achievement. You will now be able to add your new credentials to your resume and also direct any potential employer to the CMA website where they can confirm your CMA status. At the conclusion of this process, you will have fulfilled all of the standard medical assistant requirements.

Recommended Online Medical Assistant Programs!

Keiser University

Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting, AS

Independence University

You can advance your career 24/7 with online education at Independence University, your proven partner with over 30 years of experience in delivering quality distance education right to our students. Our programs are designed to allow you to continue working and earning as you pursue your online degree.

Programs:

• AS - Occupational Studies in Medical Specialties
• AS - Respiratory Therapy
• BS - Completion in Respiratory Care with Management Concentration
• And more...

Allied Schools

Considering a new career or need additional job training? Whether you want to train for a new career, advance within your current company, or simply learn new skills to stay competitive in today's job market, Allied's distance education training can help! Because the courses are offered online and through traditional distance education, the stress associated with driving to and attending a live class is eliminated. Start your new career training today, start it with Allied Schools.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician Program

Ultimate Medical Academy Online

Boost your career with an education from Ultimate Medical Academy Online. We offer career-focused training in dental assisting, nursing assisting, medical billing and coding, basic x-ray, and more. Programs take as little as seven weeks.

Programs:

Harrison College

Get started on your career with an education from Harrison College. We offer more than 30 degree, certificate, and diploma programs in the fields of health sciences, veterinary technology, information technology, criminal justice, and business, in addition to our culinary arts academy.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assistant

Fortis Institute

Looking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.

Programs:

• Medical Administrative Assistant

Penn Foster Schools

Penn Foster offers affordable, self-paced career-focused distance education programs in fields like business, criminal justice, health services, technology, engineering, paralegal studies and more.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician
• Occupational Therapy Aide
• Optician
• And more...

Stratford Career Institute

Stratford Career Institute can help you earn your diploma from home in as little as six months, thanks to their proven study methods.

Programs:

• Pharmacist's Assistant
• Health Care Aide
• Dental Assistant
• And more...

Ashworth College

Get the hands-on training and skills it takes to succeed with Ashworth College, a respected, worldwide leader in distance education. Study at the times and places most convenient for you.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assisting

Receiving your medical assistant training online is certainly different from traditional schooling but, for many students, it offers advantages that conventional classrooms are unable to match. In terms of convenience, personalized learning opportunities and cost, online medical assistant programs allow their pupils to acquire the skills they will need to succeed faster, for less money and on more flexible schedules than do their standard counterparts.

How is Medical Assistant Training Online Different?

Online medical assistant training differs from classroom-based instruction in that it places a far greater amount of the learning experience in the student’s hands. While you will still be required to complete the same number of study hours, learn the same material, and pass the same tests that you would if you were studying for the medical assistant certification exam in a physical setting, the way in which you will approach your training is up to you.

Who Succeeds in Online Medical Assistant Training Programs?

The type of individual who thrives in an online learning environment is one who is a self-starter, has excellent reading comprehension skills, is organized and, most importantly, is not a procrastinator. The freedom afforded to students when going through their medical assistant training online is certainly great, but becoming a medical assistant is by no means easy. If a student is not focused on following the recommended class schedule, and keeping up with the assignments, it can be extremely easy to fall behind. Once this happens, the seemingly-relaxing pace of online study can quickly become stressful.

What About Hands-On Experience?

The notion that online medical assistant courses can be completed entirely from the student’s computer is false. Even if you are going through your training in a distance learning setting, you will be required to acquire at least some amount of hands-on experience through an externship. Without this vital type of experience, you will not be able to meet all of the prerequisites needed to test for your medical assistant certificate.

Fortunately, all reputable online medical assistant schools arrange these externships for their students early enough in the program that scheduling conflicts are easy to avoid. The work experience opportunities are usually offered on weekends and evenings, so finding a time that works within someone’s schedule should not be an issue.

So, Is Medical Assistant Training Online Right for You?

If you’re interested in a career in the medical assisting profession, but have concerns about your ability to meet the time commitments necessary to become certified, then online medical assistant training may be right for you. It is important to keep in mind, however, that passing your classes and successfully finishing your courses will be just as demanding from a motivation and studying standpoint as a traditional school. The curriculum may be presented via the internet, but it is still made up of the same amount of material that would be covered in a classroom.

With that said, if you’re highly motivated, a good reader, able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and good at budgeting your time, medical assistant training online could be a perfect fit for you.

Recommended Online Medical Assistant Programs!

Keiser University

Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting, AS

Independence University

You can advance your career 24/7 with online education at Independence University, your proven partner with over 30 years of experience in delivering quality distance education right to our students. Our programs are designed to allow you to continue working and earning as you pursue your online degree.

Programs:

• AS - Occupational Studies in Medical Specialties
• AS - Respiratory Therapy
• BS - Completion in Respiratory Care with Management Concentration
• And more...

Allied Schools

Considering a new career or need additional job training? Whether you want to train for a new career, advance within your current company, or simply learn new skills to stay competitive in today's job market, Allied's distance education training can help! Because the courses are offered online and through traditional distance education, the stress associated with driving to and attending a live class is eliminated. Start your new career training today, start it with Allied Schools.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician Program

Ultimate Medical Academy Online

Boost your career with an education from Ultimate Medical Academy Online. We offer career-focused training in dental assisting, nursing assisting, medical billing and coding, basic x-ray, and more. Programs take as little as seven weeks.

Programs:

Harrison College

Get started on your career with an education from Harrison College. We offer more than 30 degree, certificate, and diploma programs in the fields of health sciences, veterinary technology, information technology, criminal justice, and business, in addition to our culinary arts academy.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assistant

Fortis Institute

Looking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.

Programs:

• Medical Administrative Assistant

Penn Foster Schools

Penn Foster offers affordable, self-paced career-focused distance education programs in fields like business, criminal justice, health services, technology, engineering, paralegal studies and more.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician
• Occupational Therapy Aide
• Optician
• And more...

Stratford Career Institute

Stratford Career Institute can help you earn your diploma from home in as little as six months, thanks to their proven study methods.

Programs:

• Pharmacist's Assistant
• Health Care Aide
• Dental Assistant
• And more...

Ashworth College

Get the hands-on training and skills it takes to succeed with Ashworth College, a respected, worldwide leader in distance education. Study at the times and places most convenient for you.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assisting

Online medical assistant courses are designed to provide students with the same type of training they would acquire in a traditional classroom setting. In comparison to their conventional counterparts, however, online courses are generally much more affordable and considerably easier to fit into one’s schedule. Several different types of courses are generally offered by online medical assistant programs – each of which is reviewed in this article.

Types of Online Medical Assistant Courses

Although most medical assistant online courses focus on providing students with a well-rounded curriculum that is suitable for working in both clinical and administrative roles, some offer certificates or diplomas instead of a medical assistant degree.  It is additionally possible to find courses that offer more specialized training in addition to the basics.

Medical Assistant Diploma Courses

Some accredited medical assistant schools online feature courses that make it possible for students to earn a medical assistant diploma in as little as nine months. These classes teach the relevant sciences (e.g. physiology and anatomy) as well as specific skills needed in the medical assisting profession, and offer the fastest route to employment for those who are eager to begin their careers quickly.

The downside to this option, however, is that certificates and diplomas do not carry nearly the same amount of weight with employers that degrees do. Your earning potential, and job opportunities, will be significantly better with a more advanced degree.

Medical Assistant Degree Courses

Medical assistant online degree programs require an average of two years to complete and, for all intents and purposes, award the equivalent of an associate’s degree. The primary difference from the aforementioned diploma courses is that degree programs include basic education classes and other types of training that allow the graduate to hold a wider range of responsibilities – not to mention earn a higher medical assistant salary.

Specialized Training Courses

For those who are interested in becoming a medical assistant specialist, there are online medical assistant course offered in a variety of specific medical fields. For example, courses in podiatry can prepare the student to work as a specialist in support of a podiatrist.

Generally speaking, specialists are paid much higher salaries than are medical assistant generalists, and also have the added bonus of working in a field that interests them.

Which Online Medical Assistant Courses are Best?

Deciding which type of medical assistant course will best prepare you for your chosen career involves making sure that the school is properly accredited, and that its course offerings align with your objectives. Regardless of which type you ultimately choose, it is important to keep in mind that you will still be required to pass a medical assistant certification exam prior to gaining employment. Online medical assistant courses worth their salt usually make this step nothing more than a formality for most students however.

Recommended Online Medical Assistant Courses!

Keiser University

Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting, AS

Independence University

You can advance your career 24/7 with online education at Independence University, your proven partner with over 30 years of experience in delivering quality distance education right to our students. Our programs are designed to allow you to continue working and earning as you pursue your online degree.

From associate's and bachelor's to master's degrees in health education and business, with Independence University you can achieve greater success through distance learning programs that suit your busy schedule, with experienced, student-oriented staff to assist you throughout your distance education.

Programs:

• AS - Occupational Studies in Medical Specialties
• AS - Respiratory Therapy
• BS - Completion in Respiratory Care with Management Concentration
• And more...

Allied Schools

Considering a new career or need additional job training? Whether you want to train for a new career, advance within your current company, or simply learn new skills to stay competitive in today's job market, Allied's distance education training can help! Because the courses are offered online and through traditional distance education, the stress associated with driving to and attending a live class is eliminated. Start your new career training today, start it with Allied Schools.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician Program

Ultimate Medical Academy Online

Boost your career with an education from Ultimate Medical Academy Online. We offer career-focused training in dental assisting, nursing assisting, medical billing and coding, basic x-ray, and more. Programs take as little as seven weeks.

Programs:

Harrison College

Get started on your career with an education from Harrison College. We offer more than 30 degree, certificate, and diploma programs in the fields of health sciences, veterinary technology, information technology, criminal justice, and business, in addition to our culinary arts academy.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assistant

Fortis Institute

Looking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.

Programs:

• Medical Administrative Assistant

Penn Foster Schools

Penn Foster offers affordable, self-paced career-focused distance education programs in fields like business, criminal justice, health services, technology, engineering, paralegal studies and more.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician
• Occupational Therapy Aide
• Optician
• And more...

Stratford Career Institute

Stratford Career Institute can help you earn your diploma from home in as little as six months, thanks to their proven study methods.

Programs:

• Pharmacist's Assistant
• Health Care Aide
• Dental Assistant
• And more...

Ashworth College

Get the hands-on training and skills it takes to succeed with Ashworth College, a respected, worldwide leader in distance education. Study at the times and places most convenient for you.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assisting

Certification for a medical assistant is not yet a precondition for employment in every state, but it is increasingly becoming viewed as such by managers at most health care facilities. With so much competition for the jobs being created in the medical assistance field, individuals who have successfully passed the medical assistant certification exam hold a huge advantage when it comes to getting hired. In this article, we’ll provide a brief overview of the process required for obtaining a medical assistant certificate and giving yourself a leg up on the competition.

Why Is Certification for a Medical Assistant Important?

As the health care industry struggles to handle the demands of an expanding, and rapidly-aging population throughout the United States, its employees are being asked to take on a wider range of responsibilities and keep current with the latest technological advances in medicine. Because these two requirements go hand-in-hand with acquiring, and maintaining medical assistant certifications, it is only natural that certification for a medical assistant is now viewed by many as a necessity.

The days when an assistant could simply gain employment and train on the job are increasingly becoming a thing of the past. As a matter of fact, many groups have begun to call upon the AAMA and other licensing bodies to make certification mandatory for any person holding the title of medical assistant.

How Do I Get a Medical Assistant Certificate?

Becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) requires the individual to first complete either a traditional, or online medical assistant program. Upon completion of the required coursework and clinical training, the student will then be eligible to sit for a certification test. If the individual passes this examination, he or she is then given the CMA title.

Maintaining certification requires the individual to either be enrolled in continuing training and education, or to take a test to re-certify every 60 days. These activities are supported by employers and can usually be incorporated fairly easily into the assistant’s work schedule.

The Greatest Advantage to Certification for a Medical Assistant

Apart from holding a recognized professional title that will make it easier to find a job, the greatest advantage to becoming a CMA is undoubtedly in compensation. Medical assistant pay is strongly correlated with the amount (and type) of training that the person has completed, and CMAs are consistently rewarded as being among the best-trained in their profession. If you were still on the fence about whether or not certification for a medical assistant is necessary, this simple fact alone should be enough to sway you towards getting certified.

Recommended Online Medical Assistant Programs!

Keiser University

Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting, AS

Independence University

You can advance your career 24/7 with online education at Independence University, your proven partner with over 30 years of experience in delivering quality distance education right to our students. Our programs are designed to allow you to continue working and earning as you pursue your online degree.

From associate's and bachelor's to master's degrees in health education and business, with Independence University you can achieve greater success through distance learning programs that suit your busy schedule, with experienced, student-oriented staff to assist you throughout your distance education.

Programs:

• AS - Occupational Studies in Medical Specialties
• AS - Respiratory Therapy
• BS - Completion in Respiratory Care with Management Concentration
• And more...

Allied Schools

Considering a new career or need additional job training? Whether you want to train for a new career, advance within your current company, or simply learn new skills to stay competitive in today's job market, Allied's distance education training can help! Because the courses are offered online and through traditional distance education, the stress associated with driving to and attending a live class is eliminated. Start your new career training today, start it with Allied Schools.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician Program

Ultimate Medical Academy Online

Boost your career with an education from Ultimate Medical Academy Online. We offer career-focused training in dental assisting, nursing assisting, medical billing and coding, basic x-ray, and more. Programs take as little as seven weeks.

Programs:

Harrison College

Get started on your career with an education from Harrison College. We offer more than 30 degree, certificate, and diploma programs in the fields of health sciences, veterinary technology, information technology, criminal justice, and business, in addition to our culinary arts academy.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assistant

Fortis Institute

Looking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.

Programs:

• Medical Administrative Assistant

Penn Foster Schools

Penn Foster offers affordable, self-paced career-focused distance education programs in fields like business, criminal justice, health services, technology, engineering, paralegal studies and more.

Programs:

• Dental Assistant
• Optician
• Pharmacy Technician
• And more...

Stratford Career Institute

Stratford Career Institute can help you earn your diploma from home in as little as six months, thanks to their proven study methods.

Programs:

• Health Care Aide
• Dental Assistant
• Pharmacist's Assistant
• And more...

Ashworth College

Get the hands-on training and skills it takes to succeed with Ashworth College, a respected, worldwide leader in distance education. Study at the times and places most convenient for you.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assisting

If you’re wondering how to become a medical assistant, you certainly aren’t alone. The medical assisting profession is one of the fastest growing in the country with an estimated 200,000 new jobs being added in the next five years, and record numbers of young people are taking advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by enrolling in online medical assistant programs and traditional certification courses throughout the country. Despite all of that competition, you may be surprised to learn that becoming a medical assistant is still a rather short process.

How to Become a Medical Assistant – A Step-by-Step Guide

The path to becoming certified as a medical assistant can be completed in just a handful of steps, and most who have followed it agree that getting started was the hardest part. By using the following step-by-by guide, it’s possible to start a career in the medical assisting field in as little as six months.

Step 1 – Decide Whether or Not to Specialize

The very first step toward earning your certification is to decide whether you want to become a medical assistant specialist or a general practitioner. The primary difference between the two is that the specialist focuses his or her time on a specific niche of the medical assisting profession, while the general practitioner tends to perform more basic clinical and administrative tasks.

A medical assistant degree is required to become a specialist, meaning that the individual will have to spend two years in school rather than the six months required to earn a medical assistant diploma. The pay-off to the extra schooling comes not only in job satisfaction however (i.e. the opportunity to work in a field that interests you), but also in pay. The salary of a medical assistant specialist is generally significantly higher than that of a generalist.

Step 2 – Find the Right School

Depending on what you decided in Step 1, this second step can be fairly straightforward, or rather challenging. If you want to specialize in a certain area of health care, you will need to find a program that offers your specific degree. Even if there isn’t a physical program near you that can meet this requirement, you will probably be able to find medical assistant schools online that can. Needless to say, if you are interested in a general diploma, this step is much easier.

Regardless of your specific program needs, you need to make sure that the program you apply to is properly accredited and is in good standing with your state’s regulatory bodies. It also doesn’t hurt to visit local health care professionals and solicit their opinions on the program you are considering.

Step 3 – Complete the Program

Whether you choose to go to a traditional school or attend a medical assistant program online, you’ll need to fulfill the course requirements in the allotted amount of time in order to graduate. Depending on whether you’re in a diploma or degree program, you may spend your study time focused entirely on acquiring the skills you will use during a typical work day (as is the case with diploma courses), or studying a wide range of clinical and general education materials (required by degree programs).

Step 4 – Take the Medical Assistant Certification Exam

No matter which approach you take in learning how to become a medical assistant, actually getting a job will require you to first pass the medical assistant certification exam. This standardized test contains material that would have been studied during any standard medical assistant course, as well as a some testing on mathematics, English and other basic skills that employers look for in new assistants.

Once you have successfully passed the certification exam, you will become a certified medical assistant. You are now ready to move on to the final step in the process.

Step 5 – Secure Employment

Depending on where you went to school, you may receive some assistance in securing a job. Many programs have job placement programs with local health care facilities to ensure that their graduates find work quickly. Even if you don’t have this luxury though, demand for new medical assistants is so high right now, that you shouldn’t have too much difficulty in finding a job right out of school.

How to Become a Medical Assistant on a Tight Budget

If you’re concerned that your medical assistant program tuition may be more than you can afford, there are numerous forms of financial aid available from both the schools themselves and other organizations in order to help prospective medical assistants get the training they need. It will generally also be less expensive to attend online medical assistant certification programs as you will be able to eliminate the cost of transportation, books and other things required in a physical classroom.

No matter which path you choose in learning how to become a medical assistant, however, you can rest assured that the end result will be a career in a fast-paced, rapidly-growing field.

Recommended Online Medical Assistant Programs!

Keiser University

Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting, AS

Independence University

You can advance your career 24/7 with online education at Independence University, your proven partner with over 30 years of experience in delivering quality distance education right to our students. Our programs are designed to allow you to continue working and earning as you pursue your online degree.

From associate's and bachelor's to master's degrees in health education and business, with Independence University you can achieve greater success through distance learning programs that suit your busy schedule, with experienced, student-oriented staff to assist you throughout your distance education.

Programs:

• AS - Occupational Studies in Medical Specialties
• AS - Respiratory Therapy
• BS - Completion in Respiratory Care with Management Concentration
• And more...

Allied Schools

Considering a new career or need additional job training? Whether you want to train for a new career, advance within your current company, or simply learn new skills to stay competitive in today's job market, Allied's distance education training can help! Because the courses are offered online and through traditional distance education, the stress associated with driving to and attending a live class is eliminated. Start your new career training today, start it with Allied Schools.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician Program

Ultimate Medical Academy Online

Boost your career with an education from Ultimate Medical Academy Online. We offer career-focused training in dental assisting, nursing assisting, medical billing and coding, basic x-ray, and more. Programs take as little as seven weeks.

Programs:

Harrison College

Get started on your career with an education from Harrison College. We offer more than 30 degree, certificate, and diploma programs in the fields of health sciences, veterinary technology, information technology, criminal justice, and business, in addition to our culinary arts academy.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assistant

Fortis Institute

Looking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.

Programs:

• Medical Administrative Assistant

Penn Foster Schools

Penn Foster offers affordable, self-paced career-focused distance education programs in fields like business, criminal justice, health services, technology, engineering, paralegal studies and more.

Programs:

• Dental Assistant
• Optician
• Pharmacy Technician
• And more...

Stratford Career Institute

Stratford Career Institute can help you earn your diploma from home in as little as six months, thanks to their proven study methods.

Programs:

• Health Care Aide
• Dental Assistant
• Pharmacist's Assistant
• And more...

Ashworth College

Get the hands-on training and skills it takes to succeed with Ashworth College, a respected, worldwide leader in distance education. Study at the times and places most convenient for you.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assisting

There is no exact answer to the question “How much does a medical assistant make?” because the salary of a medical assistant is dependent upon too many different variables. With that said, it is possible to provide approximate figures based on recent Bureau of the Labor Statistics data. One must keep in mind, however, that medical assistant pay can vary considerably by state, level of education and other factors discussed in the following article.

Approximately How Much Does a Medical Assistant Make?

In its most recent report on medical assistant pay, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that the median salary for a medical assistant in the United States was $28,300. It should be noted that this figure represents the median, not the average, and that the data shows that actual wages earned varied considerably.

For instance, individuals who held only a medical assistant diploma, were new to the profession and worked as generalists made up the lowest 10% of earners, taking home an average of just $20,600 per year. Those with a medical assistant degree fell into the middle 50% earning anywhere from $23,700 to approximately $33,000 annually, with the actual wage paid increasing based on the individuals’ work experience. Finally, the top 10% in pay earned over $39,570 per year and were predominantly made up of medical assistant specialists who held specialized certifications and significant experience.

How Much Do Medical Assistants Make By Job Type?

The Bureau’s data also reflected a strong correlation between salary and the type of facility where a medical assistant works. It may come as a surprise to learn that general hospitals paid the highest annual median salaries, with their medical assistants earning $29,720. In a bit of good news for anyone trying to earn a medical assistant certificate, the report also showed that these high paying facilities are where most of the job growth will be over the next decade.

Colleges, physician’s offices and outpatient care centers all paid their medical assistants in the $28,000-per-year range, despite the fact that individuals employed at these facilities likely performed a wide range of varied tasks.

Finally, private offices of other types of health care practitioners offered annual salaries around $25,000 to their medical assisting staff. These facilities tend to employ a higher number of inexperienced generalists (resulting in the lower wages), and usually require their medical assistants to fill both clinical and administrative roles.

How to Increase Your Medical Assistant Pay

As you may have figured out while analyzing the data offered in the previous sections, there is a tremendously strong correlation between medical assistant pay and education. Regardless of the type of facility where you eventually work, you will earn considerably more if you hold a degree and some additional type of specialized certification.

The necessary education is available through any number of medical assistant schools and online medical assistant programs and, in many cases, can be completed in as little as two years. In short, the answer to “How much does a medical assistant make?” is really dependent upon one thing – how much education and training does he or she have?

Recommended Online Medical Assistant Programs!

Keiser University

Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting, AS

Independence University

You can advance your career 24/7 with online education at Independence University, your proven partner with over 30 years of experience in delivering quality distance education right to our students. Our programs are designed to allow you to continue working and earning as you pursue your online degree.

From associate's and bachelor's to master's degrees in health education and business, with Independence University you can achieve greater success through distance learning programs that suit your busy schedule, with experienced, student-oriented staff to assist you throughout your distance education.

Programs:

• AS - Occupational Studies in Medical Specialties
• AS - Respiratory Therapy
• BS - Completion in Respiratory Care with Management Concentration
• And more...

Allied Schools

Considering a new career or need additional job training? Whether you want to train for a new career, advance within your current company, or simply learn new skills to stay competitive in today's job market, Allied's distance education training can help! Because the courses are offered online and through traditional distance education, the stress associated with driving to and attending a live class is eliminated. Start your new career training today, start it with Allied Schools.

Programs:

• Pharmacy Technician Program

Ultimate Medical Academy Online

Boost your career with an education from Ultimate Medical Academy Online. We offer career-focused training in dental assisting, nursing assisting, medical billing and coding, basic x-ray, and more. Programs take as little as seven weeks.

Programs:

Harrison College

Get started on your career with an education from Harrison College. We offer more than 30 degree, certificate, and diploma programs in the fields of health sciences, veterinary technology, information technology, criminal justice, and business, in addition to our culinary arts academy.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assistant

Fortis Institute

Looking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.

Programs:

• Medical Administrative Assistant

Penn Foster Schools

Penn Foster offers affordable, self-paced career-focused distance education programs in fields like business, criminal justice, health services, technology, engineering, paralegal studies and more.

Programs:

• Dental Assistant
• Optician
• Pharmacy Technician
• And more...

Stratford Career Institute

Stratford Career Institute can help you earn your diploma from home in as little as six months, thanks to their proven study methods.

Programs:

• Health Care Aide
• Dental Assistant
• Pharmacist's Assistant
• And more...

Ashworth College

Get the hands-on training and skills it takes to succeed with Ashworth College, a respected, worldwide leader in distance education. Study at the times and places most convenient for you.

Programs:

• Medical Office Assisting