If you want to become a medical assistant, then you need to enroll in a quality training program.
When considering quality training, you typically have two primary options: a degree program or a certificate program.
To decide which training program is the best for you need to consider each path, its advantages and drawbacks, your career goals, lifestyle, and financial situation.
So, in this article, we’ll discuss the medical assistant degree and certificate programs, their course duration, cost, and so on. This would help you to decide which training program could be the best option for you.
Moreover, we’ll also share a faster approach that could help you become job-ready as a medical assistant, without driving to college or without any student loan debt, from the comfort of your home.
So, let’s get started.
Degree Vs Certificate: Which Training Program is Better For You?
When considering the training required to become a medical assistant, you typically have two primary options: a degree program or a certificate program.
While both options can lead to certification and employment, it ultimately comes down to how much time and money you’re willing to invest and what your long-term goals are.
Medical Assistant Degree Programs
Medical assistant degree programs are designed to provide students with the essential knowledge and skills required for a career in healthcare.
These programs prepare students for both clinical and administrative tasks, enabling them to assist physicians, manage patient records, and perform basic medical procedures.
Some degree programs also include clinical experience, where students gain hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.
By the end of the program, students are typically well-prepared to take certification exams such as the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA). A certification enhances job prospects and credibility in the healthcare field.
Course Cost
The cost of a medical assistant program can vary widely depending on the institution, location, and whether it’s a community college, vocational school, non-profit university, or private institution.
On average, tuition for medical assistant degree programs ranges from $10,000 to $40,000 and they tend to be more expensive, considering additional costs. Although financial aid and scholarships are available to help offset the costs.
Course Duration
The duration of medical assistant degree programs varies based on the institution and the program type.
Generally, an associate’s degree in medical assisting takes about 2 years to complete when pursued full-time, or even more if pursued part-time.
These programs offer a more in-depth education. In addition to core medical assisting courses, students also take general education classes.
Problems with the Degree Programs
Degree programs for medical assistants offer a comprehensive education but come with several challenges that may make them less appealing, especially for those looking to enter the workforce quickly and affordably.
Below, we explore the common problems associated with pursuing a degree program in medical assisting.
#1 Expensive Tuition Costs
One of the most significant barriers to pursuing a degree program is the high cost of tuition.
While certificate programs can range from $1500 to $15,000, degree programs often cost between $10,000 and $30,000 or more.
This steep price can be a major deterrent, especially for individuals who are financially constrained or looking for the most economical way to enter the healthcare field.
Many students find themselves struggling to cover these high costs without external financial support.
#2 Additional Costs
In addition to tuition, degree programs often have a range of additional expenses, including textbooks, lab fees, and supplies.
These hidden costs can add up quickly, making the program even more expensive than initially anticipated.
Moreover, other incidental costs like transportation to campus or childcare services for those with families can further strain a student’s budget.
#3 This Leads to Student Loan Debt
Due to the high cost of tuition and additional expenses, many students turn to student loans to finance their education. Unfortunately, this can lead to substantial debt that can take years, even decades, to repay.
Graduates of degree programs often find themselves burdened with debt, which can impact their financial stability, especially in entry-level healthcare roles where the pay is modest.
#4 Longer Course Duration
Degree programs typically take two years to complete, which is significantly longer than certificate programs, which can be completed in less than a year.
For many people, this extended timeline is a drawback, especially for those who want to enter the job market quickly.
Spending two years in school before starting to earn a salary can be a tough pill to swallow, particularly when there are faster, more efficient ways to gain the same qualification.
#5 Not Suited for Busy Adults
Traditional degree programs are often designed with a younger student population in mind and are not always structured to accommodate the needs of working adults or those with families.
The rigid schedules of in-person classes, coupled with the demands of full-time coursework, make it challenging for adult learners who may have other responsibilities, such as a job or caring for children.
Unlike self-paced or online programs, degree programs tend to lack the flexibility that many adults need to balance their education with their personal and professional lives.
Medical Assistant Certificate Programs
Medical Assistant Certificate programs are a streamlined way to enter the healthcare field, focusing on the core skills necessary to support medical professionals in clinical and administrative tasks.
These programs are ideal for individuals who want to start working in a short period without committing to a lengthy degree program.
These programs often include an externship, providing hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.
Upon completion, students are typically eligible to sit for certification exams like the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), which enhance job prospects.
Course Duration
Medical Assistant Certificate programs typically range from 9 months to 1 year in duration. This short timeframe allows students to quickly gain the knowledge and skills needed to begin working in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
Course Cost
The cost of a Medical Assistant Certificate program varies depending on the institution and location.
On average, tuition fees range from $1500 to $15,000, with online certificate programs offering the most affordable tuition.
How Certificate Programs Can Fix the Challenges of Degree Programs?
Certificate programs for medical assistants are an excellent solution to many of the challenges posed by traditional degree programs.
They offer several advantages, making them an appealing choice for those who want to enter the healthcare field quickly, affordably, and with the necessary qualifications.
Let’s break down how certificate programs can address the common issues associated with degree programs.
#1 Affordability
Unlike degree programs, which can cost upwards of $30,000, medical assistant certificate programs are much more affordable, typically ranging from $1,500 to $5,000.
This significant reduction in tuition helps alleviate the financial burden many students face, allowing them to pursue their education without the need for large loans or excessive debt.
Certificate programs often offer payment plans, financial aid, or scholarships, making education accessible to a wider audience.
#2 Faster Completion
One of the most appealing aspects of certificate programs is their accelerated pace. While degree programs can take two years or longer to complete, certificate programs are often designed to be finished in as little as six months to a year.
This faster track means that students can enter the workforce quickly, starting their careers and earning income much sooner than those enrolled in longer degree programs.
#3 Flexibility and Convenience
Certificate programs, especially those offered online, provide the flexibility that many students need. Self-paced and online learning options allow students to balance their studies with work, family, and other commitments.
This convenience is especially beneficial for adults who may have more responsibilities and require a learning schedule that fits their lifestyle. The ability to study from home and at their own pace eliminates the stress of commuting or adhering to a rigid class schedule.
#4 National Acceptance
A major benefit of medical assistant certificate programs is that they are widely recognized and accepted across the U.S.
As long as the program is from an accredited institution, the certification you receive is often accepted by employers nationwide.
Medical assistant programs from accredited institutions are recognized by professional bodies and healthcare employers, ensuring that the training meets the necessary standards and prepares students for successful careers.
#5 You Could Become Ready for Certification
Many certificate programs are designed with certification readiness in mind, providing specific coursework and training to prepare students for nationally recognized certifications, such as the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA).
These credentials are highly valued by employers, helping students secure employment quickly and demonstrating their expertise in medical assisting.
#6 Externship Opportunities
Another key advantage of certificate programs is that many offer externship placements as part of their curriculum.
The medical assistant externship allows students to gain hands-on experience in real healthcare settings, working alongside medical professionals and applying their theoretical knowledge.
This practical training is invaluable for building confidence and competence, ensuring students are job-ready upon graduation.
So ultimately, online certificate programs could be an attractive alternative to traditional degree programs for aspiring medical assistants.
They offer a cost-effective, quicker, and more flexible route to certification, while still providing the necessary training and experience to excel in the field.
This makes them a perfect choice for those seeking to start their careers as medical assistants without the financial or time constraints associated with degree programs.
Why are Self-Paced Online Certificate Programs the Best Option to Start Your Career?
Self-paced online certificate programs are the ideal choice for individuals looking to start their career quickly and affordably.
Self-paced online programs have emerged as the best option for starting a career in fields like medical assisting due to their flexibility, affordability, and efficiency.
Here’s why they are an excellent choice:
Flexibility
Self-paced programs allow you to learn at your own speed, which is ideal for individuals balancing work, family, or other commitments.
Unlike traditional programs with rigid schedules, online self-paced courses let you decide when and where to study.
This can significantly reduce stress and make learning more manageable for adult learners or those with unpredictable schedules.
Faster Completion
In contrast to traditional programs that might take one to two years, self-paced online certificate programs could often be completed in 6-12 months or less.
This fast-tracked timeline enables you to enter the workforce much quicker, which is critical if you are looking to switch careers or start earning sooner.
Many students appreciate being able to accelerate their studies when they have extra time, allowing them to get certified and begin their careers without unnecessary delays.
Cost-Effective
Self-paced online programs are often more affordable than traditional classroom-based courses.
There’s no need to pay for commuting, on-campus facilities, or other additional fees that come with in-person programs. These programs also typically have lower tuition rates.
For example, some programs cost as little as $1,599 compared to the $7,000 to $40,000 you might spend on traditional medical assisting degrees.
Accessibility and Convenience
Because these programs are entirely online, you can access coursework from anywhere in the world, making them accessible to a broader range of students.
All you need is a computer and an internet connection, allowing you to complete your studies in the comfort of your own home.
This accessibility is especially valuable for people living in remote areas who may not have access to quality education locally.
Certification Preparation
Most self-paced online certificate programs are designed to prepare you for certification exams like the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam.
This is a significant advantage, as certification is often a requirement for employment. Being fully prepared for this certification from the comfort of your home is a great convenience.
The Standout Medical Assistant Online Certificate Program
Becoming a Certified Medical Assistant involves choosing the right educational path. For that, online programs have emerged as a popular option due to their flexibility, affordability, and quicker timelines.
For individuals balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, self-paced online programs offer the flexibility needed.
Among these, Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program, offered in partnership with Auburn University, stands out as a top choice.
Introducing Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program
If you want to start a career as a certified medical assistant, Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program could be a standout choice.
This program is designed with flexibility, affordability, and efficiency in mind and provides a comprehensive solution for busy adults who want to gain the skills and qualifications needed to enter the healthcare industry quickly.
Here’s what you get with Preppy:
100% Online and Self-Paced Learning
One of the key features of Preppy’s Medical Assistant program is its completely online, self-paced format. This flexibility is perfect to tailor your education around other obligations.
Moreover, you don’t need to commute to campus or adhere to a rigid schedule and can progress through the course materials on your own time.
The program could be completed in as little as four months, but you have the option to take more time if necessary, making it highly adaptable to different learning styles and schedules.
You Could Become Certification Ready
Preppy’s program is well-rounded, so you could become ready for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam, which is one of the most widely recognized certifications for medical assistants in the U.S.
This credential is essential for enhancing career opportunities and salary potential, as many healthcare employers prioritize certified candidates.
Hands-On Experience Through Externship
In addition to the online coursework, Preppy offers an externship opportunity. This allows you to gain practical, hands-on experience in a real healthcare setting near your location.
An externship opportunity is an invaluable part of the program, helping you apply the knowledge and skills you’ve learned in real-world scenarios, which is critical for mastering the clinical and administrative aspects of medical assisting.
University Certificate
Upon completing the program, you could earn a certificate from Auburn University, a well-respected and fully accredited institution.
Having a certificate from Auburn not only boosts your resume but also adds an extra layer of credibility when applying for jobs.
The affiliation with such a renowned university assures potential employers that graduates of Preppy’s program have received high-quality, rigorous training.
Affordability and Faster Completion
With a tuition cost of just $1,599, Preppy’s program is significantly more affordable than many traditional medical assistant programs, which could range anywhere from $7,000 to $40,000. This allows you to gain the necessary education without taking on burdensome student loans.
Plus, the program’s accelerated format allows you to complete your training in as little as four months, meaning you can start working and earning sooner.
Bonus Offer
As a bonus, Preppy offers a free laptop if you pay in full upon enrollment. This laptop is not only a useful tool for completing coursework but also remains yours after you finish the program, providing a valuable resource as you begin your career in healthcare.
24/7 Student Support
Preppy understands that online learning can sometimes be challenging, which is why they offer 24/7 support.
Whether you have academic, technical, or general inquiries, Preppy’s support team is available around the clock to provide guidance and assistance. This level of support ensures that you never feel alone in your educational journey.
So, if you’re looking for an affordable and faster way to start your career as a medical assistant, Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program could be a great choice.
In Conclusion
We hope this article has enlightened you about the key differences between these two training options.
A certificate program could be a better choice compared to an associate degree program. However, if you’re looking to start working as a medical assistant faster and with less financial investment, an online certificate program could be the right fit.
Lastly, if you want to pursue a flexible, affordable, and job-focused online certificate program that meets your needs, you could consider exploring Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program.
Also Read:
-> 12 Reasons to Become a Medical Assistant
-> Do This To Become a Medical Assistant in 2025!
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, whose work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
Time is money. Instead of programs that could take 2 years, Preppy provides you with education in a few months through immersive online training.
Healthcare, IT, Business, Trades…Preppy gets you ready for the trending careers in our modern economy.
Our team of higher education and startup veterans has created the best solution so everyone can obtain the emerging careers of today and tomorrow.
We look forward to speaking with you. You may also call 800-729-1317
