Medical Assistant Program Near Me: How to Choose the Right Accredited Training
- Elnaz Sarabchian
- 12 hours ago
- 4 min read
In the past, becoming a Medical Assistant often meant spending 12–24 months in a traditional classroom, attending long lectures, and following rigid schedules. But with the rapid growth of educational technology, flexible online platforms, and national certification bodies like the NHA (National Healthcareer Association), the pathway to becoming a certified Medical Assistant has changed dramatically.
With the Rise of Technology, You Don’t Need a Traditional In-Person School to Earn Your MA Certification
Today’s students no longer need to commute to a physical campus or attend daily in-person classes to earn their MA credential. Instead, you can choose an online medical assistant program that:
Fits into your work schedule
Allows you to study from home
Provides digital learning resources
Prepares you for the nationally recognized NHA CCMA exam
Offers flexible pacing so you can finish faster
Thanks to modern tech, self-paced online training is now just as effective—and often more accessible—for busy adults, parents, and career changers.
How to Choose the Right Accredited Training
Choosing the right medical assistant program is one of the most important steps toward starting a rewarding career in healthcare. With so many online, hybrid, and in-person programs available, it can be overwhelming to know which one is truly worth your time and money.
This guide breaks down what to look for, which companies offer accredited MA programs, and why Clinical Skills Institute (CSI) is one of the most affordable and flexible options for students who want real clinical experience—not just online lectures.
Why Choosing an Accredited Medical Assistant Program Matters
Before enrolling in any training, always confirm two things:
✔ The program is accredited
Accreditation ensures the program meets national standards and qualifies you for NHA or NCCT exams.
✔ You receive hands-on clinical training
Employers prefer graduates with real patient-care experience, not just online coursework.
✔ You are eligible for certification
A high-quality program prepares you for national certification such as:
CCMA (NHA)
NCMA (NCCT)
How to Choose the Best Medical Assistant Program Near You
1. Look for flexible scheduling that fits your life
Many students work full-time or have families. Some programs—like Stepful—offer Zoom-only mandatory classes, and missing just two sessions can result in being withdrawn.
2. Compare tuition and what’s included
Medical assistant tuition ranges from $2,000–$20,000 depending on the school, format, and length.
3. Check if externships are guaranteed
You need real clinical hours in a medical office to feel confident and employable.
4. Look for exam preparation
A strong program includes NHA prep and covers clinical competencies thoroughly.
Comparison of Popular Medical Assistant Programs
Below is a clear comparison of four well-known programs: Stepful, MedCerts, HealthTech Academy, and Clinical Skills Institute.
Program | Tuition | Format | Flexibility | Externship | Notes |
Stepful | ~$1,999–$2,499 | Online (Zoom) | ❌ Not flexible; missing 2 classes = withdrawal | Sometimes included | Limited hands-on training |
MedCerts | ~$2,000–$4,000 | Online, self-paced | ✔ Flexible, but no in-person labs | Optional externship based on availability | Good for theory, weaker on clinical practice |
HealthTech Academy (16-week Bootcamp) | ~$4,000–$7,000 | Hybrid | ✔ Flexible | ✔ Included | Tuition above standard for similar training |
Clinical Skills Institute (CSI) | $1,650–$2,200 | Hybrid + In-Person Clinical Labs | ✔ Highly flexible schedule | ✔ Guaranteed externship with 20+ blood draws | Most affordable; real hands-on practice; prepares for NHA exam |
No need to search "Medical Assistant Near me" when you can go through an online Medical Assistant program.
Stepful Medical Assistant Program Review
Stepful is a well-known online MA program. While affordable, it has limitations:
Cons of Stepful:
❌ Zoom-only classes
❌ Strict attendance rules (miss 2 sessions → removed from program)
❌ Limited hands-on practice
❌ Not ideal for students who need flexibility
MedCerts Medical Assistant Program Review
MedCerts is popular for its self-paced online structure.
Pros:
✔ Flexible online learning
✔ Good digital coursework
✔ NHA exam prep included
Cons:
❌ No guaranteed externship
❌ Students often lack real clinical experience
❌ Not ideal if you're a hands-on learner
HealthTech Academy – 16-Week MA Bootcamp Review
HealthTech Academy offers a fast-track bootcamp-style program.
Pros:
✔ Includes externship
✔ Modern online platform
✔ Good for motivated full-time learners
Cons:
❌ Tuition is above standard
❌ More expensive than similar programs
❌ Bootcamp pace may be overwhelming
Why Clinical Skills Institute Is the Best Medical Assistant Program
Clinical Skills Institute (CSI) stands out as one of the most affordable, flexible, and clinically focused accredited MA programs available.
✔ Affordable Tuition
CSI costs 40–70% less than many competitors while offering more hands-on training.
✔ Hybrid + In-Person Lab Options
Students can learn online but still receive real clinical practice, not just virtual simulations.
✔ Guaranteed Externship
CSI ensures every student completes 20+ blood draws, hands-on vitals, patient interaction, and real medical office experience.
✔ NHA Exam Preparation Included
Students graduate ready to pass the CCMA exam and start working quickly.
✔ Flexible Schedule for Working Adults
Perfect for parents, full-time employees, and anyone who needs adaptable scheduling.
✔ Incredible Student Support
CSI offers mentorship, personalized feedback, and resume/interview coaching.
What to Expect After Completing a Medical Assistant Program
Graduates can work in:
Family medicine practices
Urgent care clinics
Specialty clinics (OB/GYN, Cardiology, Pediatrics)
Outpatient centers
Hospital-based outpatient departments
Average MA salaries range from $36,000–$48,000, depending on location and experience.
Ready to Enroll in the Best Medical Assistant Program Near You?
Clinical Skills Institute offers one of the best accredited medical assistant programs for students who want flexible scheduling, affordable tuition, real clinical experience, and guaranteed externships.
👉Enroll today and get immediate access to the program: