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Medical Assistant (CCMA) Online Program: Cost, Duration & Certification (2026)

  • Feb 6
  • 3 min read

If you’re looking for the fastest, most affordable way to become a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), an online CCMA program can help you enter healthcare without spending years in school or tens of thousands of dollars.


This page explains exactly what a CCMA is, what the job involves, how long certification takes, how much it costs, and how our Medical Assistant (CCMA) Online Program prepares you for national certification and employment.


Medical Assistant (CCMA) working in a clinical setting

What Is a Medical Assistant (CCMA)?


A Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) is a healthcare professional who works directly with patients and providers in clinical settings such as medical offices, urgent care centers, specialty clinics, and outpatient facilities.


CCMAs perform hands-on clinical tasks and support physicians and nurses in delivering patient care. Certification demonstrates that you meet national standards for clinical medical assisting.


What Does a CCMA Do?


Clinical Medical Assistants are responsible for a wide range of patient-facing and clinical duties, including:


  • Taking and recording vital signs

  • Preparing patients for examinations

  • Assisting physicians during procedures

  • Administering injections (as allowed by state regulations)

  • Performing EKGs

  • Collecting specimens

  • Updating electronic medical records

  • Communicating with patients before and after visits


This role offers direct patient interaction and real clinical experience, making it ideal for career changers and students pursuing advanced healthcare education.


How Long Does a CCMA Program Take?


Program length varies significantly depending on the school and delivery format.


Typical timelines:


  • Traditional programs: 6–12 months

  • Accelerated online programs: 8–12 weeks


Our Medical Assistant (CCMA) Online Program is designed to be self-paced, allowing motivated students to complete training in as little as 8–12 weeks, while still providing structured instruction and exam preparation.


Medical Assistant (CCMA) Program Cost


CCMA program tuition can vary widely across the U.S.


Average costs:


  • Community colleges: $3,000–$6,000

  • Private vocational schools: $5,000–$8,000+

  • Online CCMA programs: $900–$2,500


Our tuition:


  • $900 total tuition

  • National certification exam included

  • No hidden fees or surprise charges


We focus on efficiency and outcomes, eliminating unnecessary costs while maintaining certification alignment and quality training.


How the Medical Assistant (CCMA) Online Program Works


Our program is aligned with the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) CCMA certification exam, a nationally recognized credential accepted by employers across the country.


What certification alignment means:


  • Curriculum designed to match exam competencies

  • Preparation for clinical, administrative, and general assisting content

  • Exam readiness built into the program

Certification is awarded by the NHA upon successful completion of the exam. This is standard across allied health education programs.

Externship & Employment Support


While employment outcomes depend on individual effort and employer hiring decisions, our program includes externship support and job-readiness support to help students transition from training to the workforce.


Support may include:


  • Resume and interview preparation

  • Guidance on finding local opportunities

  • Understanding clinical workplace expectations


Our goal is to help students feel confident, prepared, and competitive when applying for CCMA roles.


Who This Medical Assistant (CCMA) Program Is Best For


This online CCMA program is ideal for:


  • Career changers seeking a fast entry into healthcare

  • Premed and pre-PA students needing paid clinical experience

  • High school graduates starting a healthcare career without college debt

  • Working adults who need flexible, self-paced learning


No prior healthcare experience is required to get started.


CCMA Salary & Job Outlook


Clinical Medical Assistants are in demand nationwide as healthcare systems continue to expand outpatient and preventive care.


While pay varies by location and employer, CCMAs can expect:


  • Competitive entry-level wages

  • Opportunities for advancement

  • Experience that supports further education in healthcare fields


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Is an online CCMA program accepted by employers?

Yes. Employers focus on certification and skills, not whether training was completed online or in person.


Can I work as a CCMA without completing an externship?

Yes. Many employers hire certified CCMAs directly. Externships are beneficial but not always required.


Does this count as clinical experience for premed or pre-PA students?

CCMA roles involve direct patient care and are commonly used by students seeking clinical experience.


How fast can I start working after certification?

Many students begin applying immediately after passing the certification exam.


Is the certification exam included?

Yes. The NHA CCMA exam fee is included in tuition.


Do I need prior medical experience?

No prior experience is required to enroll.


Start Your Medical Assistant (CCMA) Career Online


Becoming a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant does not require years of school or overwhelming debt. With the right program, you can gain skills, prepare for certification, and enter healthcare quickly and affordably.


👉 Enroll in the Medical Assistant (CCMA) Online Program https://www.clinicalskillsinstitute.com/


  • $900 tuition

  • 8–12 weeks

  • Certification exam included


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