Become a Medical Assistant in 6 Weeks

Six-week online medical assistant programs typically cover essential topics such as human anatomy and medical records management. Additionally, most stand-out programs usually require you to both complete clinical requirements and complete a long stint of interning in a professional medical environment.

Some online programs advertise a six-week medical assistant degree. Some of those schools prioritize quick profits over quality education and career training, and this can lead to problems if the program is not accredited. Talk to an admissions officer or counselor if you have questions, and check for the program’s accreditation before enrolling.

Before you commit to a program that offers a medical assistant degree online in 6 weeks, consider your academic and professional needs. If you want to start a medical assistant job quickly, a shorter, less-intensive program may be the best option. If you’re starting your medical career, a more comprehensive program with transferrable college credits may be a better path.

You have several choices when searching for the right medical assisting certificate course. We have incorporated several educational institutions to aid you in your quest.

Phlebotomy Career Training - (Certified Medical Assistant Program Online)

Time Frame: 6 weeks, self-paced. This online CMA program can be longer or shorter per your pace.

Course Type: Online

Course Cost: $650 (registration fee)

Certification Awarded: Certificate – Certified Clinical Medical Assistant

Accreditation: NCCT (National Center for Competency Testing)

The Online Medical Assistant Certification (CCMA) program offered by Phlebotomy Career Training is quite interesting.

• Self-Paced Learning: The course is 100% online and self-paced, meaning you can complete it on your own schedule. It's designed to be flexible, accessible 24/7, and mobile-friendly.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers a wide range of skills necessary for medical assistants, including taking vital signs, assisting with minor surgeries, performing injections, and understanding administrative tasks.
• Certification Exam: Upon completion, students are eligible to take the certification exam, which is included in the tuition. Passing this exam allows you to work as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) in the U.S. and Canada.
• Clinical Internship: The program includes 204 hours of clinical internship experience, which can be completed at a local healthcare provider.
• Instructor Support: Students are assigned an instructor who provides personal instruction and support throughout the course.

It's a great option if you're looking to enter the healthcare field without spending years in school.

 

Accelerated Medical Assistant Programs Online & On-Campus

Most of the quick medical assistant programs are online medical assistant certifications.

CareerStep Online Education & Training Solutions

Time Frame: 4 months

Course Type: Online

Course Cost: $3,799

Certification Awarded: Certificate – medical assistant certification online.

Accreditation: None. However, several programs are recognized and certified by industry-specific organizations.

CareerStep offers an Online Medical Assistant Training Program designed to prepare students for certification as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), Phlebotomy Technician, and EKG Technician.

• Self-Paced Learning: The program is 100% online and self-paced, allowing you to complete it on your own schedule.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: The curriculum covers essential skills such as anatomy and physiology, venipuncture, electronic medical records, and patient care.
• Certification Prep: The program includes preparation for certification exams for CCMA, Phlebotomy Technician, and EKG Technician.
• Hands-On Training: Students receive a hands-on venipuncture kit to practice skills learned in the course.
• Clinical Internship: The program includes a clinical internship component, providing real-world experience

CareerStep Online offers other health-related courses, such as medical coding and EMS education. It's a great option if you're looking to gain multiple certifications and practical skills in the healthcare field.

Popular Online Medical Assistant Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

University of Utah

Time Frame: 4 months (8 hours a day, 5 days a week)

Course Type: Online

Course Cost: $3,200 Full Certificate Tuition

Certification Awarded: Certificate – medical assistant certification online.

Accreditation: Contact the school to find out

The University of Utah's Clinical Medical Assistant Program is quite comprehensive and offers several interesting features:

• Hybrid Format: The program combines online, self-paced modules with hands-on, in-person skill labs. This allows for flexibility while ensuring practical experience.
• Hands-On Learning: Students get to practice essential skills such as EKG, vital signs, and blood draws in monthly in-person skill labs.
• Clinical Training: The program includes 180 hours of clinical training(unpaid), providing real-world experience in a healthcare setting.
• Certification: Upon completion, students receive a voucher to take the certification exam to become a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA).
• Career Advancement: The program is designed to help students advance their careers in the healthcare industry, with potential paid clinical hours at University of Utah Health Hospitals and Clinics

It's a great option if you're looking to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the medical assisting field.

U.S. Career Institute

Time Frame: 4 months

Course Type: Online

Course Cost: $1239, depending on your course and how you pay.

Certification Awarded: Certificate – medical assistant certification online.

Accreditation: DEAC, NCCT, NHA, AMT, CACCS

The U.S. Career Institute's Online Medical Assistant School offers a self-paced, 100% online program that is DEAC accredited.

• Flexibility: The program allows you to study anytime, anywhere, even on your phone. This makes it very convenient for those with busy schedules.
• Duration: The estimated length of the program is 4-7 months, depending on how quickly you complete the coursework.
• Certification: Upon completion, students are eligible to take the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam, which is included in the tuition.
• Tuition: The program offers a payment plan of $79/month or a pay-in-full option of $1,239.
• Hands-On Tools: Students receive a venipuncture kit to practice skills learned in the course.
• Career Support: The institute provides career assistance services to help graduates find employment

It's a great option if you're looking to enter the healthcare field quickly and with flexibility.

Preppy (In partnership with University of Auburn)

Time Frame: 4 to 6 months

Course Type: Online

Course Cost: $1599

Certification Awarded: Certificate – medical assistant certification online.

Accreditation: Through Auburn University(CCNE)

The Preppy Medical Assistant Training Program offers several interesting features:

• Fast Completion: The program claims you can become job-ready in as little as 4-6 months, which is much quicker compared to other programs that can take up to 2 years.
• 100% Online: The training is completely online and self-paced, allowing you to study anytime, anywhere, even on your mobile phone.
• Accredited by Auburn University: The program is accredited by Auburn University, a 150-year-old accredited nonprofit university, which adds credibility to the certification.
• Externship Opportunity: Students are eligible for an externship with a local healthcare organization, providing valuable hands-on experience.
• Affordable Pricing: The program is designed to be affordable, with industry-low pricing and easy payment plans.
• Career Support: Preppy offers career support, including access to a career platform where companies post jobs for certified medical assistants, and resume support.

It's a great option if you're looking for a quick, flexible, and affordable way to enter the healthcare field.

Care One Health Training Institute

Time Frame: 7 or 9 Months

Course Type: Hybrid Online

Course Cost: $4,500

Certification Awarded: Certificate – medical assistant certification online.

Accreditation: None

The Care One Health Institute's Medical Assistant Online Hybrid Course offers a blend of online and in-person learning to provide comprehensive training for aspiring medical assistants.

• Hybrid Format: The program combines online coursework with hands-on labs and clinicals. This allows for flexibility while ensuring practical experience.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Students learn essential clinical procedures such as taking medical histories, recording vital signs, assisting with minor surgeries, drawing blood, and performing basic lab tests.
• Clinical Training: The program includes clinical training hours, giving students real-world experience in a medical setting.
• Duration and Cost: The program typically takes 26-38 weeks to complete. Additional costs for CPR and TB tests are not included in the tuition.
• Support and Resources: Care One provides support services, including resume workshops and career assistance, to help graduates find employment.

It's a great option if you're looking for a flexible yet thorough medical assistant training program.

Keiser University

Time Frame: 24 months

Course Type: Blended

Tuition Cost: $23,248 (In-state tuition and fees)

Degree Awarded: Associate of Science Degree

Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs

Keiser University's Associate of Science in Medical Assisting (AS) program is quite comprehensive and offers several interesting features:

• Flexible Learning Options: The program is available both online and on-campus at multiple Florida locations, providing flexibility for students to choose the format that best suits their needs.
• Hands-On Training: Students gain practical experience through hands-on labs and clinical externships, allowing them to develop essential skills such as taking vital signs, assisting in minor surgeries, and performing venipuncture.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including medical office procedures, pharmacology, medical law and ethics, and clinical procedures.
• Credentialing Preparation: The program prepares students to take various credentialing exams, such as the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exams.
• Support Services: Keiser University offers support services, including career assistance and small class sizes, to help students succeed academically and professionally.

It's a great option if you're looking for a well-rounded medical assisting education with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Purdue University: 18-Month Medical Assistant Certification Online

Time Frame: 18 months

Course Type: Blended

Course Cost: $371 per credit; 47 credits or roughly $17,437

Certification Awarded: Certificate

Accreditation: HLC

Purdue University Global offers an 18-Month Medical Assistant Certification Online program designed to prepare students for a career as a medical assistant.

• Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers essential medical assisting skills, including clinical procedures, administrative tasks, and medical office practices.
• Certification Preparation: Students are prepared to take several certification exams, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA), Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), and Clinical Medical Assistant Certification (CMAC).
• Hybrid Learning: The program combines online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, ensuring students gain practical skills in a real-world setting.
• Clinical Experiences: Students complete clinical experiences at approved sites and a supervised externship (160 hours) in a medical office or ambulatory care setting.
• Flexible Schedule: The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to complete it in 18 months, with start dates each month.

It's a great option if you're looking to gain comprehensive training and certification in the medical assisting field in a relatively short time frame.

Online Medical Assitant Programs – FAQ

4-Week Medical Assistant Program?

To date, we have been unable to find any legitimate 4-week medical assistant programs. The quickest we have found is a six-week program provided by Phlebotomy Career Training, as mentioned in the article above–but make sure to read the description for the Phlebotomy Career Training online medical assistant program before enrolling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fast-Track Medical Assistant Programs

How quickly can someone become a medical assistant?

• In as little as 6 weeks through self-paced programs or by starting work without certification.
• Some employers hire high school graduates without formal training.
• 8-week programs are similar to 6-week options, allowing quick completion of self-paced courses.

Are online programs available?

Yes, many accredited programs offer online medical assistant training. Look for courses that include externships for hands-on experience. Online options often provide more affordable tuition.

What's the fastest path to becoming a medical assistant?

With a high school diploma or GED, one can start working immediately in many states that don't mandate certification or experience.

Which program is the quickest?

A 6-week course from Phlebotomy Career Training is among the shortest. Students must arrange their own internships alongside full-time studies.

How long does certification typically take?

• Online certification: About 4 months
• Community college or trade school: Roughly 12 months
• Degree programs: Approximately 2 years
• Work experience route: At least one year before taking the RMA or CCMA exams

Do all employers require certification?

Not necessarily. Some hire uncertified assistants, while others prefer or require it. Certified candidates may have better job prospects and higher salaries.

What about costs?

Prices vary widely. Online programs often cost less than traditional schools. Financial aid may be available for eligible students.

Is job placement assistance offered?

Many programs provide career services, but it's important to verify this before enrolling.

What certifications are available?

Common options include:

• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
• Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

How do salaries compare for certified vs. uncertified assistants?

Certified medical assistants often earn more and may have better advancement opportunities.

Are accelerated programs accredited?

Some are, but it's crucial to check. Accreditation ensures quality education and can affect certification eligibility and employer recognition.

What's needed before starting a quick medical assistant course?

Most fast-track programs require:

• High school diploma or GED
• Basic computer skills
• Internet access
• Time management skills

Some may also ask for:

• Background check
• Immunization records
• CPR certification

Are there local 6-week medical assistant training options?

Many 6-week programs are online. Local options may be limited. To find nearby programs:

• Check community colleges
• Look for vocational schools
• Ask hospitals about training programs

What certifications do 6-week medical assistant programs offer?

Short programs may prepare students for these certifications:

• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
• Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
• Certified EKG Technician (CET)

Some programs focus on specific skills like phlebotomy. Check program details to see which certifications are covered. 

Medical Assistant Clinical Specialties

Medical assistants in clinics can specialize in one specific area of the healthcare industry. Most of these specializations require certification. In this article, we’ll explain the basics of four of these specialties.

Specializations

Endocrinology

Medical assistants specializing in endocrinology help endocrinologists treat endocrine disorders, including hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and Cushing’s syndrome. The duties of an endocrinologist’s assistant include running tests, treating injuries or disorders, and preparing patients for procedures.
Medical assistants aiding endocrinologists need in-depth technical knowledge of human hormones and related disorders, including how they affect the various parts of the body. In helping patients, medical assistants in endocrinology need skills such as bedside manner, a strong knowledge base on hormone biology, and effective treatment of chemical disorders.

Neurology

In neurology, medical assistants help neurologists treat patients suffering from neurological problems such as cognitive decline, neuropathy, and paralysis. Due to the nature of neurological conditions, the treatments are rendered by neurologist's and their assistants.

Medical assistants help neurologists conduct tests and brain scans and prepare patients for procedures and inform patients and their families about their relative diseases and potential treatments. This specialty requires skills such as, an informed knowledge of the human nervous system, compassion, and patience.

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Medical assistants specializing in women’s care including obstetrics and gynecology, help Obstetricians and Gynecologists to prevent, diagnose, and treat women and in-utero children. This specialty entails prenatal, natal, and postnatal care. These assistants often help OB/GYNs with scanning, testing, and treating and birth.

Specialists in the obstetrics/gynecology field also need skills such as compassionate speech, bedside manner, and technical knowledge of anatomy and biological processes of women and fetal children, as well as health risks to both. These experts use their skills and knowledge to heal, teach, and comfort their patients.

Oncology

Oncologists require the help of medical assistants for their work in preventing, diagnosing, and treating various kinds of cancers and other tumors in often lifesaving procedures. Most medical assistant roles in this specialization include performing scans or tests, administering treatments, and looking after other patient needs.

Medical assistants in oncology must have advanced knowledge of treatments, symptoms, and outlooks of various forms of cancer. These assistants must also be compassionate and possess effective bedside manner skills due to the aggressive nature of cancer. Medical assistants in oncology provide life-altering care through effective prevention and treatment and compassionate, supportive communication.

Searching for Online Medical Assistant Programs Near Me?

If you're looking for medical assistant programs near you, use the tool below. Enter your zip code, and this tool will populate schools with medical assisting programs near your location.