Becoming a certified medical assistant is one of the fastest ways to start a rewarding career in healthcare—and yes, it’s possible to earn your NHA certification in just six months.
If you’re thinking this means going back to school full-time or racking up student loan debt, think again. With the right program, you can train from the comfort of your home, on your own schedule, without breaking the bank.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to get your NHA Medical Assistant Certification in just six months—even if you’re currently working or juggling family responsibilities.
Why the NHA Certification Matters
If you’re planning to work as a medical assistant, getting certified is no longer optional—it’s essential.
According to the Industry Outlook Survey, 78% of employers require medical assistants to hold certification. That’s nearly 8 out of 10 employers actively looking for certified professionals. Certification isn’t just a formality—it tells employers that you’ve been tested, evaluated, and approved by a nationally recognized organization.
The NHA CCMA certification (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant) is one of the most respected credentials in the field. It proves that you have the clinical knowledge, technical ability, and professionalism required to succeed in a real-world healthcare environment.
Step 1: Complete Formal Medical Assistant Training
To qualify for the NHA CCMA certification exam, you first need to complete a formal training program. There are two main ways to do this:
- Traditional on-campus programs
- Online medical assistant training
Let’s take a closer look at both.
On-Campus Medical Assistant Programs: Are They Worth It?
Most people assume that the only “real” way to become a medical assistant is to enroll in a local college or vocational school. But traditional programs have some major downsides, especially if you’re an adult with responsibilities.
Common challenges with on-campus programs:
- High tuition costs: Many in-person programs charge up to $15,000 in tuition alone.
- Long timelines: It can take 1 to 2 years to complete, which delays your entry into the workforce.
- Rigid class schedules: Most schools don’t accommodate work or family obligations.
- Commuting expenses: Gas, parking, and lost time add up quickly.
Unless you have a lot of time and money to spare, these programs might not be the best fit.
Online Medical Assistant Programs: A Smarter Option
Thanks to the rise of flexible learning options, online medical assistant programs have become a popular and practical alternative.
Benefits of online training:
- Fast completion: Finish in as little as six months
- Total flexibility: Study anytime, anywhere
- Self-paced: Learn at your own speed, even if you’re working full-time
- Lower cost: Save thousands compared to traditional programs
But keep in mind—not all online programs are created equal. If you’re aiming for NHA certification, you need a program that meets NHA’s training standards and includes hands-on experience opportunities.
Step 2: Choose an Online Program That Prepares You for the NHA Exam
The key to getting certified in six months lies in picking the right online program—one that prepares you for the exam and provides a real path to clinical experience.
That’s where Preppy’s Online Medical Assistant Certificate Program comes in.
Why Preppy’s Medical Assistant Program Stands Out
Preppy was designed specifically to help busy adults become certified medical assistants without going back to school.
Here’s what you get with Preppy:
- ✅ 100% Online, Self-Paced Learning: Train when and where it works for you
- ✅ Accredited University Certificate: Comes from a respected institution
- ✅ NHA Exam Prep Included: Full preparation for the CCMA exam
- ✅ Externship Opportunities: Get hands-on clinical experience in a real healthcare setting
- ✅ Affordable Tuition: All of this for under $2,000
Created by education expert Grant Aldrich, Preppy’s approach is all about accessibility, flexibility, and real-world success. Whether you’re looking to start fresh or switch careers, this program is built for you.
Step 3: Prepare for and Take the NHA CCMA Exam
Once you’ve completed your online coursework and externship (if applicable), you’ll be eligible to sit for the NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant exam.
About the exam:
- Format: 150 scored questions + 30 pretest questions
- Time: 3 hours
- Subjects Covered: Clinical procedures, medical law & ethics, patient care, EKGs, phlebotomy, and more
Preppy’s program includes built-in exam prep, so you won’t need to scramble or pay extra for a separate review course.
Step 4: Get Certified and Start Working
After passing the NHA CCMA exam, you’ll officially be a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant. With your certification in hand, you can begin applying for jobs right away—often at clinics, hospitals, private practices, or urgent care centers.
Because the NHA certification is nationally recognized, your qualification will be respected across the U.S., opening the door to more job offers, higher pay, and better job security.
Is It Really Possible to Get Certified in Just 6 Months?
Absolutely. With a focused, flexible program like Preppy’s, many students complete their training and certification in as little as half a year.
Of course, the timeline depends on your personal pace. But unlike traditional programs, online self-paced learning gives you the power to move faster—not slower—toward your career goals.
Final Thoughts
The healthcare field needs skilled medical assistants now more than ever. If you’re ready for a new career, you don’t have to wait. By choosing the right online program, you can earn your NHA Medical Assistant Certification in just six months, without the stress of traditional school.
With Preppy, you get a trusted, accredited education that fits your life—and your budget. Whether you’re starting fresh or changing careers, this could be your fastest path into a secure and meaningful profession.
Also read: How to Become a Dental Assistant Without Going to School
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, who’s 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 education in a few months through immersive online training.
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Our team of higher education and startup veterans have 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.
