Accredited Medical Assistant Programs: A Path to Stable Employment and Higher-Level Nursing Careers
Medical Assistants (MAs) are a growing profession in the United States. Choosing an accredited medical assistant programs not only makes your qualifications recognized by employers but also lays the foundation for future advancement to LPN status. Many schools offer financial aid and online courses, which greatly reduces the pressure of study and life.
🌟 Why Choose an Accredited Medical Assistant Program?
Employer Trust: Completing an accredited program earns you a diploma that is recognized by hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes.
Official Accreditation: Programs accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES provide graduates with the opportunity to take exams like the CMA and RMA.
Flexible Learning: Some schools offer online or hybrid programs, perfect for students balancing work and family life.
Career Advancement: After completing an MA program, you can choose to continue your studies to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN).
Financial Aid Options: Herzing University, Keiser University, Purdue Global, Rasmussen University, and others all offer scholarships and grants to help students reduce their burden and complete their studies more smoothly.
📚 What accredited medical assistant programs are available?
Pasadena City College: Its MA program is accredited by CAAHEP and offers a Certificate or Associate degree, along with externship opportunities.
Bossier Parish Community College: Offers an AAS, Technical Diploma, and Certificate, with practical training; the program prepares students for the CCMA exam.
Panola College: Offers an Associate's degree MA program, including labs and clinical practice, preparing students for certification exams and industry employment.
Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell: Offers a CAAHEP-accredited MA program, as well as internship opportunities; graduates can apply for medical assistant certification exams.
Cerritos College: Offers a Certificate/AA degree, with internships and on-site training, and is close to local facilities for students.
Herzing University: Offers online learning, with flexible courses suitable for those balancing family and work.
📈 Future Career Paths
After completing the medical assistant program and passing the exam, your options aren't limited to remaining as a medical assistant. Many students pursue further education after working for a few years, progressing to:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Becoming an LPN through the MA to LPN bridge program allows you to take on more clinical nursing responsibilities and enjoy increasing opportunities for advancement.
Registered Nurse (RN): A higher-level nurse with a wide range of career opportunities.
Healthcare Management Positions: Experienced medical assistants can also advance to team leaders, trainers, or management positions.
👩⚕️ Real case sharing
Emily, 23 years old: Graduated from a community college's MA program and worked as a front desk and clinical assistant at a local hospital while continuing her LPN studies.
Carlos, 35 years old: He chose an online MA program, studied from home while working part-time, and after graduation, he joined a community clinic, alleviating his family's financial burden.
Linda, 40 years old: She returned to school, completed certification through an on-campus program, and now works full-time at a pediatric clinic.
📝 How to Apply to an Accredited Medical Assistant Program?
Confirm Accreditation: Check if the program is accredited.
Choose a Format: Decide on an online, in-person, or hybrid program based on your circumstances.
Prepare Materials: A high school diploma or GED is generally required, and some schools require a health exam.
Apply for Financial Support: Inquire about grants, scholarships, or installment payment options to reduce the burden of studying.
Submit Your Application: Contact the admissions office to submit your application and plan your future career goals.
✅ Start a steady path to employment and advancement
Accredited medical assistant programs offer stable employment and a path to advancement. Whether you're a recent graduate, job seeker, or considering re-entry, now is a great time to start studying for an MA.