Rankings Methodology | MedicalAssistantOnline.org
At MedicalAssistantOnline.org, we are committed to providing prospective students with comprehensive information about medical assistant education programs. We understand that choosing the right program is a highly individualized decision that depends on various personal factors and career goals.
To simplify your search process, we conduct thorough annual assessments of medical assistant programs nationwide using a rigorous methodology that evaluates clinical preparation, affordability, and program accessibility. Our aim is to present you with well-researched, objective information that supports your educational and professional aspirations.
Our Rankings Evaluation Process
Our rankings are developed through a systematic and objective review process. We collect and analyze data from trustworthy sources to ensure our rankings remain relevant and beneficial to prospective medical assistant students.
Exclusion Criteria
We compile a comprehensive list of medical assistant programs but exclude those that:
- Are not listed in the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) database
- Have announced closure or are in the process of being phased out
- Lack appropriate accreditation from recognized healthcare education authorities
- Have insufficient graduate outcome data available for proper assessment
Ranking Factors
Programs are evaluated based on several key metrics, with particular emphasis on:
- Accreditation – Priority is given to programs accredited by respected organizations such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), or regional accrediting bodies
- Clinical Training Quality – Programs offering comprehensive hands-on clinical experiences and externship opportunities receive higher rankings
- Graduate Outcomes – Employment rates, certification exam pass rates, and median starting salaries for graduates are heavily weighted
- Program Cost – Tuition, fees, and additional expenses are evaluated relative to regional cost-of-living indices
- Completion Timeframes – Programs offering accelerated options alongside traditional schedules are rated favorably
- Learning Format Variety – Availability of online, hybrid, evening, and weekend options to accommodate working students
- Student Support Services – Strength of career placement assistance, tutoring resources, and certification preparation
Data Sources
Our rankings are built using data from authoritative sources, including:
- U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard
- Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) healthcare employment data
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
- National Healthcareer Association (NHA) certification statistics
- American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) program data
Through this evidence-based approach, we strive to provide transparent, reliable rankings that help you make confident decisions about your medical assistant education.
Questions or Feedback?
If you have questions about our methodology or suggestions for improvement, we welcome your input! Please get in touch with us through our Contact Form. At MedicalAssistantOnline.org, we are dedicated to guiding you toward success in the medical assisting field.