Medical Assistant Programs & Certification in California

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be a 16% increase in medical assisting positions in the next decade. This rewarding field has plenty of room for those seeking a new career. Medical assistants are responsible for assisting doctors with tasks such as appointment scheduling, communication with off-site medical labs, and preparing patients for medical procedures. Suppose you're looking to enter such a career as a medical assistant in California. In that case, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about enrolling in an online program for medical assisting.
2025 Best Medical Assistant Programs in California
Looking for the best medical assistant programs in California? You're in the right place. At medicalassistantonline.org, we've done the hard work for you. Our team has carefully ranked the top programs to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're starting your career or looking to advance, our list has something for everyone. We focus on quality, affordability, and outcomes. Want to know how we rank these programs? Check out our rankings methodology for all the details.
Southwestern College
Chula Vista, CA - Public 2-Year - swccd.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southwestern College's Medical Assisting Program offers comprehensive training in three key areas: administrative, clinical, and insurance/billing. Students gain multi-skilled healthcare expertise through state-of-the-art training, preparing them for diverse roles in medical settings. The program provides pathways to certification exams and potential career opportunities in hospitals, clinics, physicians' offices, and research facilities. Graduates can pursue certificates in specific medical assisting domains and are eligible for National Healthcareer Association certification in Medical Assistant, Medical Administrative Assistant, and Billing & Coding Specialist tracks.
- Three certificate options available
- Multiple certification exam eligibility
- No prerequisite work required
- State-of-the-art training clinic
- Versatile healthcare career preparation
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting-Administrative
Concentration: Administrative - Campus Based - Visit Website
Southwestern College's Administrative Medical Assisting program prepares students for dynamic front-office healthcare roles. Focused on essential administrative skills, the program equips learners with expertise in patient communication, scheduling, medical records management, and office technology. Students gain comprehensive training to excel in various medical settings, from physician offices to clinics, with opportunities to earn national certifications that enhance career prospects. The program provides practical, industry-aligned education designed to meet growing healthcare administrative needs.
- Administrative medical assisting focus
- No prerequisite courses required
- National certification opportunities
- Practical state-of-the-art training
- Multi-skilled healthcare professional preparation
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting-Clinical
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Visit Website
Southwestern College's Clinical Medical Assisting program prepares students for dynamic healthcare careers with comprehensive training in patient care and medical office procedures. Students learn critical skills like taking medical histories, recording vital signs, and assisting physicians during examinations. The program offers certification opportunities through the National Healthcareer Association, enhancing employment prospects in diverse medical settings such as hospitals, clinics, and physician offices. With no prerequisite requirements and flexible semester start dates, students can quickly launch a rewarding healthcare profession.
- Clinical concentration focus
- No prerequisite courses required
- NHA certification eligibility
- State-of-the-art clinic training
- Multiple certification options
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting-Medical Insurance Billing and Coding
Concentration: Medical Insurance Billing and Coding - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Medical Insurance Billing and Coding concentration at Southwestern College prepares students for a critical role in healthcare administration. This specialized program equips learners with comprehensive skills in medical documentation, coding standards, and insurance processing. Students learn to accurately translate medical procedures and diagnoses using ICD and CPT guidelines, ensuring optimal healthcare reimbursement. The program offers certification opportunities through the National Healthcareer Association, potentially enhancing career prospects and earning potential in the rapidly growing healthcare administrative sector.
- No prerequisite courses required
- Certification exam preparation
- Multiple career pathway options
- On-site clinic training
- NHA certification eligibility
Associate - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southwestern College's Medical Assisting program prepares students for dynamic careers in healthcare's rapidly growing administrative and clinical sectors. This comprehensive Associate in Science degree equips learners with essential skills to meet the increasing demand for versatile medical professionals. Students gain comprehensive knowledge in both administrative tasks and clinical procedures, positioning themselves for diverse career opportunities in hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and medical facilities. The program responds to the evolving healthcare landscape, emphasizing critical thinking and performance skills needed in modern medical environments.
- Associate in Science degree
- Multiple certificate options
- Located at National City Center
- Part of Health & Wellness field
- Healthcare job market growth
- Administrative and clinical tracks
- Multiple career pathway options
Associate - Medical Assisting-Administrative
Concentration: Administrative - Campus Based - Visit Website
Southwestern College's Medical Assisting program prepares students for dynamic healthcare careers with comprehensive administrative and clinical training. Designed to meet industry demands, the program equips learners with essential skills for medical office roles. Students can pursue an Associate in Science degree or specialized certificates in administrative, clinical, or medical insurance billing and coding tracks. The curriculum addresses the growing healthcare sector's need for versatile, skilled professionals capable of adapting to complex medical environments.
- Associate in Science degree
- Multiple certificate options
- Located at National City center
- Part of Health & Wellness field
- Multiple career pathway options
- Healthcare industry focused program
- Meets growing job market needs
Associate - Medical Assisting-Clinical
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Visit Website
Southwestern College's Medical Assisting program prepares students for dynamic healthcare careers with comprehensive administrative and clinical training. Students gain critical skills to excel in medical offices, hospitals, and clinics. The program responds to growing healthcare industry demands, offering flexible pathways through associate degrees and certificates. Designed for career-focused individuals, the curriculum equips students with practical knowledge in medical administration, clinical procedures, and emerging healthcare technologies.
- Associate in Science available
- Multiple certificate options
- Located at National City campus
- Part of Health & Wellness field
- Supports growing healthcare industry
- Career paths in medical offices
- Administrative and clinical tracks
Irvine Valley College
Irvine, CA - Public 2-Year - ivc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Embark on a dynamic healthcare career as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) through this comprehensive online program. In just 12 months, students gain essential skills spanning clinical and administrative roles, preparing them for a rapidly growing field with a projected 16% job market expansion. The course includes a national certification exam voucher, textbooks, and opportunities for clinical experience. With a total cost of $2,795, students learn critical medical terminology, patient care techniques, and professional healthcare practices, positioning themselves for rewarding roles in medical offices, clinics, and hospitals.
- Online certification program
- 12-month flexible timeline
- 540 total course hours
- CCMA exam voucher included
- Clinical experience opportunity
- Self-paced learning format
- $2,795 total program cost
- No prerequisites required
- Open enrollment availability
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) + Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS)
Concentration: Electronic Health Records - Online Learning - Visit Website
Dive into a comprehensive healthcare career training program that prepares you for two critical certifications: Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) and Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS). This 674-hour online course offers an intensive exploration of Electronic Health Records, focusing on system management, patient data security, and healthcare technology. Designed for aspiring healthcare professionals, the program equips students with essential skills in medical terminology, clinical procedures, and EHR software. With a competitive cost of $3,995 and included exam vouchers, students can gain national certifications that enhance employment prospects in a rapidly growing medical field.
- 12-month self-paced online program
- Includes exam vouchers
- 674 total course hours
- NHA certification preparation
- Clinical experience opportunity
- Medical terminology included
- No prerequisites required
- Job market growth 16%
- Covers administrative tasks
- Comprehensive medical skills training
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Irvine Valley College's Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) program prepares students for a dynamic career in healthcare administration. With a comprehensive curriculum covering essential skills like patient scheduling, medical records management, and insurance processing, students gain the expertise needed to excel in medical office environments. The program includes a national certification exam voucher, offering a direct pathway to professional credentialing. Designed for career-driven individuals, this online course provides flexible learning with 160 course hours completed within 6 months, making it ideal for those seeking to enter a rapidly growing field with a projected 16% job market expansion through 2031.
- Online certification program
- 160 total course hours
- 6-month completion time
- $1,895 total cost
- Includes exam voucher
- Self-paced learning format
- Nationally recognized certification
- Open enrollment availability
- High job market demand
- Hardware flexible training
Antelope Valley Community College District
Lancaster, CA - Public 4-Year - avc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant
Campus Based - Visit Website
Seeking a dynamic healthcare career? Antelope Valley College's Medical Assisting program prepares students to become skilled professionals in medical offices and clinics. Students learn to work closely with physicians and nurses, developing essential clinical and administrative skills. The program offers comprehensive training that balances hands-on technical knowledge with practical patient care techniques. Ideal for those wanting a fast-track healthcare career, the program provides a solid foundation for entry into medical support roles. Affordable community college pricing and flexible learning options make this an attractive pathway for diverse students at various life stages.
- Prepares for medical office work
- Two program study tracks
- Work under medical professionals
- Clinical and administrative skills
- Supports physicians and nurses
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant
Concentration: Clinical Medical Assistant - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Clinical Medical Assistant concentration at Antelope Valley College equips students with essential skills to excel in healthcare settings. This comprehensive program prepares professionals to work alongside physicians and nurses in medical offices and clinics, offering a strategic pathway into the dynamic healthcare industry. Students learn critical clinical skills, patient interaction techniques, and medical procedures that are in high demand. The program provides practical training designed to meet current healthcare workforce needs, positioning graduates for immediate employment opportunities in various medical environments.
- Two program study tracks
- Physician and nurse supervision
- Clinical and medical assistant options
- Prepares for medical office work
- Healthcare career preparation
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant
Concentration: Medical Assistant - Campus Based - Visit Website
Antelope Valley College's Medical Assistant program provides comprehensive training for aspiring healthcare professionals. Students can choose between Clinical Medical Assistant and Medical Assistant concentrations, preparing them to work alongside physicians, registered nurses, and podiatrists in medical settings. The program equips students with essential skills to support healthcare teams in clinical offices and medical facilities, offering a practical pathway to a rewarding career in the healthcare industry.
- Two program study tracks
- Works under medical professionals
- Prepares for medical office roles
- Clinical and administrative focus
- Career-oriented healthcare training
Associate - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Jumpstart a rewarding healthcare career with Antelope Valley College's Medical Assisting program. Designed for aspiring medical professionals, this comprehensive program equips students with essential skills to work alongside physicians and healthcare teams. Students can choose between Clinical Medical Assistant and Medical Assistant tracks, providing flexible pathways to enter the dynamic healthcare industry. Ideal for those seeking a quick, practical route into patient care, the program prepares graduates for diverse medical office and clinic environments.
- Two program study options
- Works under medical professionals
- Clinical and administrative focus
- Prepares for medical office roles
- Healthcare career pathway
Associate - Clinical Medical Assistant
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dive into the dynamic world of medical assisting at Antelope Valley College, where aspiring healthcare professionals can launch their careers with comprehensive training. This program offers two specialized tracks—Clinical Medical Assistant and Medical Assistant—preparing students to excel in medical offices and clinics under the guidance of physicians and nurses. With hands-on learning and industry-relevant curriculum, students gain the skills needed to become vital healthcare team members.
- Two program tracks available
- Work under medical professionals
- Prepare for medical office careers
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA - Public 4-Year - sdsu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
Online Learning - Visit Website
Unlock a dynamic healthcare career as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant with this comprehensive online training program. Designed for experienced professionals, this course prepares students for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) certification exam, offering a robust curriculum covering medical terminology, clinical procedures, and essential healthcare skills. Ideal for career changers and medical professionals seeking advancement, the program provides 380 course hours with flexible, self-paced learning. With a median salary of $37,190 and projected job growth of 16% through 2031, this program represents a strategic investment in a stable, rewarding medical career.
- Online self-paced training
- 12 months course access
- 380 total course hours
- CCMA exam voucher included
- Optional clinical experience
- CPR certification opportunity
- $2,502 total program cost
- No prior medical experience required
- High school diploma prerequisite
- Comprehensive medical textbooks provided
Rio Hondo College
Whittier, CA - Public 4-Year - riohondo.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Embark on a rewarding healthcare career with Rio Hondo College's Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) online program. This comprehensive 12-month course prepares students for a dynamic role in medical settings, covering critical skills from medical terminology to clinical procedures. Priced at $2,795, the program includes a certification exam voucher and offers flexible, self-paced learning. Graduates will be equipped to perform both administrative and clinical tasks, with potential job market growth of 16% through 2031 and an average annual salary of $43,464.
- Online certification program
- 12 months access
- 540 course hours
- CCMA exam voucher included
- Open enrollment
- Self-paced learning
- No prerequisites required
- Potential clinical experience
- CPR certification opportunity
- Career growth potential
Certificate/Diploma - Noncredit Healthcare Clerical Medical Assistant
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rio Hondo College's Noncredit Healthcare Clerical Medical Assistant program provides a comprehensive pathway into healthcare administrative roles. This short-term vocational program equips students with essential skills for non-clinical entry-level positions, covering professional communication, medical office procedures, and industry software. Students can earn multiple certificates, including Medical Office Assistant, with potential for additional industry credentials. The program offers practical training from experienced healthcare professionals, focusing on employment readiness in the growing healthcare administrative sector.
- Noncredit certificate program
- Multiple certificate opportunities
- Healthcare administrative focus
- Entry-level job preparation
- Experienced industry instructors
- Comprehensive skills training
- Potential industry credential
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
Online Learning - Visit Website
Rio Hondo College's Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program prepares students for a dynamic healthcare career with high-demand job prospects. The comprehensive 380-hour online course equips learners with essential clinical skills, from patient history documentation to vital sign measurement and laboratory procedures. Aligned with National Healthcareer Association certification requirements, the program offers a pathway to entering the medical field, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 16% job market growth through 2031. Graduates can expect to earn a median salary of $37,190, with opportunities in medical offices, clinics, and hospitals.
- Online self-paced training
- 12 months course access
- 380 total course hours
- CCMA exam voucher included
- Optional clinical experience
- Certification exam preparation
- $2,295 total program cost
- High job market demand
- Textbooks included
- Prerequisites: High school diploma
Cosumnes River College
Sacramento, CA - Public 2-Year - crc.losrios.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
Cosumnes River College's Medical Assisting program provides comprehensive training for aspiring healthcare professionals, preparing students for entry-level positions in medical settings. The program offers flexible certificate and degree options, focusing on developing competent medical assistants through rigorous cognitive, psychomotor, and behavioral learning domains. Students gain practical skills in administrative and clinical procedures, positioning themselves for certification through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). With projected job growth outpacing many other occupations, graduates can expect excellent employment opportunities, especially those with formal training and certification.
- Entry-level medical assistant training
- AAMA certification preparation
- Comprehensive administrative/clinical skills
- Multiple certificate options
- Projected fast job growth
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting, Administrative Certificate
Concentration: Administrative - Campus Based - Visit Website
Discover an exciting career path in medical administration with the Medical Assisting Administrative Certificate at Cosumnes River College. This comprehensive program prepares students for dynamic front-office roles in healthcare settings like physician offices, hospitals, and insurance companies. Students gain essential skills in medical language, healthcare documentation, computer applications, and administrative procedures. The curriculum covers critical areas such as medical terminology, human anatomy, and professional communication, ensuring graduates are workforce-ready. With a concise 20-21 unit program, students can quickly transition into entry-level administrative medical assistant positions, medical insurance billing, or hospital unit secretary roles.
- Entry-level administrative medical skills
- 20-21 total program units
- Front office healthcare training
- Multiple career pathway options
- Computer and medical language focus
Associate - A.S. in Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Cosumnes River College's Medical Assisting program offers a comprehensive pathway to a dynamic healthcare career. Students can earn an Associate of Science degree or certificate with cutting-edge training in administrative and clinical skills. The program prepares graduates for immediate employment, with coursework designed to meet certification requirements. Emphasizing hands-on learning, students gain practical experience through clinical practicums and comprehensive coursework covering medical procedures, patient communication, and healthcare technologies. With projected job growth and multiple career opportunities, this program provides an affordable, flexible route to a rewarding medical profession.
- Associate of Science degree available
- Multiple certificate options
- AAMA certification preparation
- 180-hour clinical practicum
- Job growth projected faster than average
- Preparation for administrative/clinical roles
- Comprehensive medical skills training
- National certification exam readiness
California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, CA - Public 4-Year - fullerton.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
Online Learning - Visit Website
California State University-Fullerton's Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program offers a comprehensive online training pathway for aspiring healthcare professionals. This 540-hour course prepares students to become versatile medical assistants capable of performing both administrative and clinical tasks. Designed for flexible learning, the program includes a voucher for the national certification exam and takes up to 12 months to complete. With a tuition of $2,795, students gain extensive medical knowledge, from medical terminology to patient care techniques, and learn skills in vital sign measurement, patient history recording, and medical office management.
- Online, self-paced program
- 540 course hours total
- CCMA exam voucher included
- $2,795 total cost
- 12-month access period
- No prerequisites required
- Includes clinical experience opportunity
- Prepares for national certification
- Covers administrative and clinical skills
Pasadena City College
Pasadena, CA - Public 2-Year - pasadena.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Pasadena City College's Medical Assisting program prepares students for a dynamic healthcare career with exceptional job prospects. In just 11 months of full-time study, students gain comprehensive skills in administrative and clinical tasks, positioning themselves in one of the fastest-growing occupational fields. The program boasts impressive statistics, including a 95% job placement rate and an 82.50% certification exam passage rate. Students receive hands-on training in state-of-the-art labs, learning critical skills like phlebotomy, patient screening, and medical documentation under expert faculty guidance.
- 11-month full-time program
- 95% job placement rate
- CAAHEP accredited program
- Certification exam preparation
- Administrative and clinical skills
- State-of-the-art lab training
- Evening class options
- Multiple healthcare settings
- Expert faculty instruction
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Office Administrative
Campus Based - Visit Website
Pasadena City College's Medical Office Administrative program prepares students for a dynamic healthcare career with strong job prospects. This comprehensive 11-month certificate offers comprehensive training in medical administrative skills, with a remarkable 95% job placement rate. Students learn critical skills in medical records management, insurance billing, and clinical procedures. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and provides eligibility for professional certification exams. Ideal for those seeking a rapid, career-focused educational pathway in the growing healthcare administrative sector.
- 11-month full-time program
- 95% job placement rate
- Nationally accredited program
- Administrative and clinical skills
- Certification exam preparation
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Office Insurance Biller
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dive into the dynamic world of medical administrative support with Pasadena City College's Medical Office Insurance Biller program. This comprehensive 11-month certificate prepares students for a rapidly growing healthcare career. Graduates gain essential skills in medical records management, insurance billing, and administrative procedures. With a remarkable 95% job placement rate and accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, students receive high-quality training that opens doors to immediate employment opportunities in medical offices and clinics.
- 11 months full-time enrollment
- 95% job placement rate
- CAAHEP accredited program
- Certification exam eligibility
- Comprehensive administrative skills
California State Polytechnic University-Pomona
Pomona, CA - Public 4-Year - cpp.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Embark on a dynamic healthcare career with the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona. This comprehensive online certification prepares students for a versatile role in medical settings, offering a 540-hour curriculum that covers both administrative and clinical skills. Priced at $2,795, the program includes a certification exam voucher and opportunities for clinical experience. Students learn essential medical terminology, patient care techniques, and professional medical practices, positioning themselves for a career with strong job market growth projected at 16% through 2031 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Online certification program
- 540 course hours
- 12-month access period
- CCMA exam voucher included
- Self-paced learning
- No prerequisites required
- Potential clinical experience opportunity
- Comprehensive medical skills training
- Cost: $2,795
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA - Private 4-year - usc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
USC's Allied Health Programs provide high school students with a comprehensive Medical Assisting certificate, offering a fast-track pathway into healthcare careers. Students gain hands-on clinical experience through a 15-16 week training program, preparing them for immediate workforce entry. The program collaborates with West Los Angeles College to ensure state certification and includes a 6-8 week internship in medical facilities. Designed for motivated high school juniors and seniors with a 3.0 GPA, this program empowers students from diverse backgrounds to launch successful healthcare careers.
- 15-16 week training certificate
- 6-8 week medical internship
- State of California Certification
- High School Junior/Senior eligible
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Healthcare career pathway
- Concurrent enrollment option
San Diego Mesa College
San Diego, CA - Public 4-Year - sdmesa.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
San Diego Mesa College's Medical Assisting program equips aspiring healthcare professionals with comprehensive skills to excel in medical office environments. Students learn critical technical and administrative competencies, including patient communication, clinical procedures, and healthcare documentation. The program prepares graduates to support medical teams by performing essential tasks like exam assistance, lab tests, and insurance form completion. With expert faculty guidance and industry connections through the Advancing San Diego program, students gain practical experience and professional development opportunities.
- Preferred Healthcare Talent Provider
- Expert faculty guided training
- Technical and administrative skills
- Professional development opportunities
- Career-focused medical training
Associate - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
San Diego Mesa College's Medical Assisting program prepares students to become skilled healthcare professionals who excel in both medical and administrative roles. With expert faculty guidance, students develop critical communication and technical skills essential for supporting medical teams. The program offers comprehensive training in patient care, exam assistance, medical record management, and insurance documentation. Students gain hands-on experience to become key contributors in medical facilities, enhancing patient care efficiency and supporting healthcare providers.
- Preferred Healthcare Talent Provider
- Professional development opportunities
- Advisory Committee oversight
- Medical office skills training
- Patient care communication focus
- Technical medical competence
- Industry connections available
Chabot College
Hayward, CA - Public 2-Year - chabotcollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chabot College's Medical Assisting program provides comprehensive training for aspiring healthcare professionals, preparing students for a dynamic career with projected strong job growth. The program offers both an Associate of Science degree and a Certificate of Achievement, featuring hands-on clinical experiences in local healthcare facilities. Graduates become eligible to take the Certified Medical Assistant Exam, with a high 90% retention rate demonstrating program quality. The curriculum is accredited by CAAHEP, ensuring rigorous educational standards and competitive career preparation.
- 27% job growth projection
- AS degree and certificate
- Clinical experience included
- CAAHEP accredited program
- 90% student retention rate
- Exam certification preparation
- Local healthcare facility training
Associate - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chabot College's Medical Assisting program offers a dynamic pathway for aspiring healthcare professionals. With a projected 27% job growth, students can earn an Associate of Science degree or certificate, preparing for a rewarding career. The comprehensive curriculum combines classroom learning, lab experiences, and clinical training in local healthcare facilities. Graduates become eligible to take the Certified Medical Assistant Exam, positioning themselves for success in a rapidly expanding field with competitive salaries.
- Associate of Science degree available
- Certificate program option
- 90% student retention rate
- CAAHEP accredited program
- Clinical experience included
- Preparation for CMA Exam
- 27% job growth projection
- Median salary $34,518
- Local healthcare facility training
Cabrillo College
Aptos, CA - Public 2-Year - cabrillo.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting Certificate of Achievement
Campus Based - Visit Website
Cabrillo College's Medical Assisting program offers a fast-track pathway to a dynamic healthcare career. In just two semesters, students can earn a Certificate of Achievement, gaining comprehensive skills in clinical and administrative medical tasks. The program boasts a 100% graduate and employer satisfaction rate, preparing students for roles in physician offices, clinics, and hospitals. Graduates can pursue certification through California Certifying Board, American Medical Technologists, or National Health Career Association. With healthcare being the second-largest employer in Santa Cruz County and medical assisting projected as one of the fastest-growing occupations, this program provides an excellent opportunity for career-focused individuals.
- Two-semester certificate program
- 180 externship hours included
- Average regional salary $49,718
- Multiple certification options
- 100% graduate satisfaction rate
Associate - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Cabrillo College's Medical Assisting program offers a fast-track pathway to a dynamic healthcare career. Students can complete a certificate in just two semesters or pursue an Associate of Science degree. The Accelerated Medical Assisting Program (AMAP) provides comprehensive training with 180 externship hours, preparing graduates for immediate employment. With a 100% graduate and employer satisfaction rate, the program equips students with clinical and administrative skills through expert faculty and a supportive learning environment.
- Two-semester certificate program
- Associate of Science degree available
- 180 externship hours included
- Applications accepted year-round
- 100% graduate satisfaction rate
- Average regional salary $49,718
- Multiple certification options
- Full-time intensive program
- Fall and Spring semester starts
- Prerequisites: MA70, ENGL 1A
West Los Angeles College
Culver City, CA - Public 4-Year - wlac.edu
Associate - Associate of Science in Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
West Los Angeles College's Medical Assisting Program prepares students for dynamic healthcare careers by developing comprehensive entry-level skills. Students learn critical administrative and clinical techniques, including medical office tasks, vital sign monitoring, medication administration, EKG interpretation, and phlebotomy. With an impressive 91% employment rate and projected job market growth of 29.2%, this program offers a pathway to a stable and rewarding healthcare profession. The one-year part-time program provides hands-on training, clinical externships, and certification opportunities.
- One-year part-time program
- Evening and Saturday classes
- 91% employment rate
- 29.2% job market growth
- Clinical and administrative skills
- Certification exam preparation
- Hands-on clinical training
- Clinical externship included
- Classes meet evenings/Saturdays
Mt San Jacinto Community College District
San Jacinto, CA - Public 2-Year - msjc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting Employment Concentration Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Medical Assisting Employment Concentration Certificate provides a comprehensive pathway into healthcare support roles. Students gain critical skills in both clinical and administrative medical settings, learning patient registration, electronic health record management, and hands-on patient care techniques. Graduates can pursue opportunities in hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and specialty medical offices. The program prepares students for potential certification exams, enhancing their professional credentials and employability in the growing healthcare industry.
- Healthcare career preparation
- Clinical and administrative skills
- Certification exam readiness
- EHR program training
- Versatile medical settings exposure
Associate - Medical Assisting Administrative and Clinical, A.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Mt. San Jacinto College's Medical Assisting Administrative and Clinical Associate of Science degree prepares students for dynamic healthcare careers. This comprehensive 33.5-unit program equips students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills in medical administration, clinical procedures, electronic health records, and certification preparation. Students learn medical terminology, billing, coding, pharmacology, and medical ethics while gaining hands-on experience through internships. The program enables graduates to pursue multiple professional certifications, including Administrative and Clinical Medical Assistant, Medical Scribe, and Medical Billing and Coding Specialist.
- 33.5-unit Associate of Science
- Multiple certification tracks
- Comprehensive medical training
- Internship experience included
- Clinical and administrative focus
- Electronic health record technology
- Work experience education
- Total program: 61.5 units
Getting a Medical Assistant Certification in California
California does not require medical assistants to be licensed or certified to work in the medical field. However, earning certification through a recognized organization can help you stand out when it comes to the application process.
Obtaining a medical assistant certification in California involves a series of steps to ensure you meet the requirements set by the state. Here is an overview of the process:
Education and Training: Complete an accredited medical assistant program that meets the criteria set by the California Certifying Board for Medical Assistants (CCBMA). These programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills.
Certification Exam: After completing your education, you must pass the certification exam recognized by the CCBMA. The exam assesses your understanding of various medical assistant competencies, including clinical and administrative tasks.
Application Submission: Once you pass the certification exam, submit your application to the CCBMA along with the required documentation, which may include proof of education, training, and exam results. Pay the necessary fees as specified by the board.
Background Check: Undergo a background check, which is a mandatory medical assistant certification requirement in California. This process ensures the safety and integrity of healthcare professionals.
Certification Issuance: Upon completing the application process and background check, the CCBMA will issue your medical assistant certification. This certification demonstrates your competency and validates your qualifications as a medical assistant in California.
Finding an Online Medical Assistant Program in California
California is home to many great online medical assistant programs and you can undoubtedly count on finding one that fits your specific needs. Talking to your area’s medical professionals or career advisors can help you narrow them down. A great place to start looking for online medical assistant programs is on the internet, where you can find programs such as the Clinical Medical Assistant course offered by California State University. This is a 100% online course that is also self-paced. Another great example is the Clinical Medical Assistant online course San Francisco State University offers.
Where Can I Find a Job as a Medical Assistant in California?
Now that you've undergone extensive training and education, you are ready to start looking for jobs in the field. You can find medical assisting jobs in your area by looking online or contacting medical facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, and physicians' offices to apply for work. This could include well-known California medical establishments such as Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Northridge Hospital Medical Center, and UC Davis Medical Center.
What Is the Salary for a Medical Assistant in California?
According to Salary.com, the salary range for medical assistants in California is $37,000 to $50,000. It's worth mentioning that this is one of the highest salary ranges in the country, however, your actual salary will depend on many factors such as specific location, experience, and any licensing you may hold.
Get More information on medical assistant salaries in California.
The following cities in California offer medical assistant schools and courses.
- Bakersfield, CA 5 schools
- Fresno, CA 7 schools
- Irvine, CA 24 schools
- Los Angeles, CA 43 schools
- Oakland, CA 15 schools
- Pasadena, CA 36 schools
- Sacramento, CA 10 schools
- San Diego, CA 9 schools
- San Francisco, CA 13 schools
- San Jose, CA 14 schools
- Stockton/Modesto, CA 16 schools