Entering the medical field with little or no experience can be challenging, but one effective way to do it is through medical assisting. Medical assistants provide support to both doctors and patients by performing tasks such as scheduling, prepping patients for medical procedures, and organizing lab specimens. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be a 19% increase in medical assisting positions within the next decade. This means that there will be plenty of opportunities to fill the empty positions that need to be filled for the next ten years. To get an idea of what medical assisting is like and to prepare yourself for the job, many people suggest enrolling in a training program. This can often be done through an online program from the comfort of your own home.

2025 Best Medical Assistant Programs in Illinois

Looking for the best medical assistant programs in Illinois? You're in the right place. MedicalAssistantOnline.org has done the homework for you. We've ranked top programs to help you find the perfect fit. Our list is based on key factors like quality, cost, and student success. Start your journey towards a rewarding career in healthcare today. Check out our rankings and see which programs stand out. Ready to learn more about how we rank? Visit our rankings methodology page for all the details.

#1

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL - Private 4-year - lewisu.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant

Online Learning - Visit Website

Lewis University's online Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program is a gateway to a thriving healthcare career, offering a 380-hour, self-paced curriculum that equips students with vital clinical skills. From mastering vital sign measurements to excelling in specimen collection, the program is designed to prepare students for the National Healthcareer Association CCMA certification exam. With the healthcare sector expecting a 16% job growth by 2031 and offering an average salary of $37,190, this program stands out for its comprehensive training, 12-month course access, and inclusion of a CCMA exam voucher, making it an ideal choice for aspiring medical professionals.

  • Online self-paced training
  • 12-month course access
  • CCMA exam voucher included
  • 380 total course hours
  • Textbooks provided
  • Clinical experience opportunity
  • Prepare for NHA certification
  • Open enrollment
  • No prerequisites for experienced MAs

Certificate/Diploma - Certified Medical Administrative Assistant

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Certified Medical Administrative Assistant program at Lewis University is tailored for those looking to make a mark in the administrative side of healthcare. This 6-month online program focuses on essential skills such as patient scheduling, medical records management, and insurance processing, all crucial for the smooth operation of medical offices. Priced at $1,895, the program includes an exam voucher for the CMAA certification, offering a cost-effective pathway into a field with a projected 16% growth through 2031. Open enrollment and no clinical requirements make it accessible to a wide range of students eager to enter the healthcare industry.

  • Online self-paced program
  • 160 total course hours
  • CMAA exam voucher included
  • 6-month completion window
  • Open enrollment availability
  • $1,895 total program cost
  • NHA certification preparation
  • Hardware compatibility flexible
  • Textbooks provided automatically
  • No clinical requirements
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Black Hawk College

Moline, IL - Public 2-Year - bhc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program at Black Hawk College offers an online, self-paced certification with 540 course hours. It prepares students for high-demand healthcare roles, covering both clinical and administrative tasks, and includes a voucher for the national certification exam. With no prerequisites and a 12-month access period, this program is perfect for career changers and healthcare enthusiasts looking for flexible learning options and a pathway to professional credentials.

  • Online certification program
  • 540 total course hours
  • 12-month access period
  • Certification exam voucher included
  • Self-paced learning format
  • No prerequisites required
  • NHA certification preparation
  • Potential clinical experience
  • $2,795 total program cost

Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) + Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS)

Concentration: Electronic Health Records - Online Learning - Visit Website

Black Hawk College's dual certification program in Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) and Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) focuses on Electronic Health Records. This 674-hour online, self-paced program includes exam vouchers and covers medical terminology, patient care, and electronic health record management. Ideal for those seeking a career in healthcare with a specialization in electronic records, it offers flexible learning and preparation for a growing field with a 16% job market growth projection through 2031.

  • 12-month online program
  • 674 total course hours
  • Certification exam vouchers included
  • Self-paced learning format
  • No prerequisites required
  • Open enrollment
  • Clinical experience opportunity
  • National Healthcareer Association certified
  • Covers medical terminology
  • Covers electronic health records

Associate - Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

Black Hawk College's Medical Assisting program is a campus-based, 30-credit certificate designed to prepare students for vital roles in healthcare. It combines clinical and administrative training, including medical terminology, office procedures, and patient care techniques, with hands-on experience through clinical courses and an internship. Located at the Quad-Cities Campus, this program starts in the fall and is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive education in medical assisting without a concentration focus.

  • College Credit Certificate
  • 30 total credits
  • Quad-Cities Campus location
  • On-campus format
  • Fall semester start date
  • Two clinical courses
  • Internship required
  • Covers medical terminology
  • Includes health insurance
  • Medical office procedures training
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Northwestern College

Oak Lawn, IL - Private 4-year - nc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting Certificate Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Northwestern College offers a Medical Assisting Certificate Program designed for those seeking a versatile career in healthcare. This hybrid program blends online coursework with practical training, covering essential topics such as anatomy, medical terminology, and pharmacology. A standout feature is the 160-hour externship, providing real-world experience in patient care and medical procedures. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue RMA certification, with the program offering both on-campus and online learning options to suit diverse student needs.

  • Hybrid program format
  • 160-hour practical externship
  • Eligible for RMA certification
  • On-campus and online options
  • Comprehensive healthcare skills training
#4

Lincoln Land Community College

Springfield, IL - Public 2-Year - llcc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Clinical Medical Assistant

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lincoln Land Community College offers a robust Clinical Medical Assistant program designed for those seeking a hands-on approach to healthcare education. This campus-based program covers essential administrative and clinical skills, including patient care and medical records management, with a total cost of $4,490 that includes textbooks and certification exam preparation. A standout feature is the 160-hour clinical externship, providing real-world experience. The program supports students with PATH program assistance and prepares them for multiple certification options, requiring a high school diploma, background check, and an age minimum of 18.

  • Campus-based medical assistant program
  • $4,490 total program cost
  • 160-hour clinical externship
  • NHA certification preparation
  • Multiple certification options
  • 18+ age requirement
  • High school diploma needed
  • Background check required
  • PATH program support available

Certificate/Diploma - CNA to Clinical Medical Assistant Bridge

Campus Based - Visit Website

For certified nursing assistants looking to advance their careers, Lincoln Land Community College presents the CNA to Clinical Medical Assistant Bridge program. This accelerated pathway requires 300 verifiable CNA hours and focuses on enhancing clinical and administrative skills. Priced at $2,149, including textbooks and certification exam fees, the program includes a 60-hour externship for practical experience. It prepares students for national certifications such as CCMA and NCMA, offering a blend of classroom and hands-on training. Eligibility criteria include being at least 18 years old and holding a high school diploma.

  • Accelerated CNA to CMA bridge
  • 300 CNA hours required
  • National certification preparation
  • $2,149 total program cost
  • 60-hour externship included
  • Classroom and practical training
  • Multiple certification options
  • Eligibility: 18+, high school diploma
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Highland Community College

Freeport, IL - Public 2-Year - highland.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant

Campus Based - Visit Website

At Highland Community College, the Medical Assistant program is a fast-track to entering the healthcare field, with a 10-month certificate or associate degree option. The CAAHEP-accredited curriculum emphasizes practical skills in patient care and administrative duties, supported by small class sizes for personalized learning. Flexible scheduling with classes two days a week allows students to efficiently prepare for national certification and immediate employment in a high-demand sector.

  • 10-month training program
  • Certificate and degree options
  • CAAHEP accredited curriculum
  • Two days per week classes
  • Small class sizes
  • Practical hands-on learning
  • Nationally recognized certification
  • Strong job market demand

Associate - Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

Highland Community College's Medical Assistant program stands out for its flexibility and comprehensive training, offering both certificate and associate degree options. The program is CAAHEP accredited, ensuring high-quality education with a curriculum that covers clinical skills and administrative tasks. Students enjoy small class sizes, hands-on learning, and a clinical practicum, preparing them for the CMA certification and diverse healthcare roles. With classes meeting just two days a week, it's designed for those seeking a balance between education and other commitments.

  • Associate Degree: 60 credit hours
  • Certificate: 32 credit hours
  • CAAHEP accredited program
  • Classes meet two days weekly
  • Nationally recognized CMA certification
  • Small class sizes
  • Clinical practicum included
  • Diverse career opportunities
  • Hands-on learning approach
  • Flexible scheduling options
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#6

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

Carbondale, IL - Public 4-Year - siu.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale's online Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program is a robust 540-hour course designed for flexibility and comprehensive learning. Over 12 months, students engage in self-paced study, mastering medical terminology, patient care, and healthcare laws without any prerequisites. The program includes a CCMA exam voucher, preparing graduates for certification and a thriving career in healthcare, underscored by a 16% job growth projection by 2031. With open enrollment and a total cost of $2,795, it's an accessible pathway to entering the medical field, offering both clinical experience and nationally recognized certification.

  • Online program, 540 course hours
  • 12-month self-paced learning
  • CCMA exam voucher included
  • No prerequisites required
  • Comprehensive medical training
  • Career prep for healthcare
  • $2,795 total program cost
  • Open enrollment availability
  • Clinical experience opportunity
  • Nationally recognized certification
#7

University of Illinois Springfield

Springfield, IL - Public 4-Year - uis.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Illinois Springfield offers an online Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program designed for those seeking a flexible path into the healthcare field. This program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum that includes medical terminology, patient care, and both administrative and clinical procedures. With no prerequisites required, it's accessible to a wide range of students. The course provides 540 hours of instruction, 12 months of access, and a voucher for the CCMA exam, all for $2,795. Students benefit from self-paced learning, digital and physical textbooks, and opportunities for clinical experience, preparing them for a career in a growing job market with an average salary of $43,464.

  • 540 Course Hours
  • 12 Months Access
  • Open Enrollment
  • Self-Paced Learning
  • CCMA Exam Voucher
  • No Prerequisites Required
  • Digital and Physical Textbooks
  • Clinical Experience Opportunity
  • Online Certification Preparation
  • Comprehensive Medical Skills Training
#8

Lake Land College

Mattoon, IL - Public 2-Year - lakelandcollege.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant

Campus Based - Visit Website

At Lake Land College, the Medical Assistant program is designed to equip students with the necessary clinical and administrative skills for a thriving career in healthcare. The CAAHEP-accredited program features a unique hybrid learning approach, allowing students to attend online classes and participate in evening labs. This program not only prepares students for the NHA certification exam with a 100% pass rate but also ensures a smooth transition into the workforce with a 90% job placement rate. Graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of a field that offers an average salary of $35,720.

  • CAAHEP accredited program
  • One-year certificate option
  • Hybrid online/lab format
  • 100% certification exam pass rate
  • 90% job placement rate
  • Clinical and administrative training
  • Prepares for NHA certification exam

Associate - Medical Assistant

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lake Land College's Medical Assistant program stands out with its CAAHEP-accredited curriculum, blending clinical and administrative training for a well-rounded education. The hybrid format, combining online coursework with evening labs, offers flexibility for students managing other commitments. Impressively, the program boasts a 100% certification exam pass rate and a 90% job placement rate, reflecting its effectiveness in preparing graduates for the workforce. With the medical assistant field expected to grow by 23%, students can look forward to promising career opportunities and an average salary of $35,720.

  • CAAHEP accredited program
  • One-year certificate option
  • Hybrid learning format
  • 100% certification exam pass rate
  • 90% job placement rate
  • Clinical and administrative training
  • National certification preparation
  • Field expected 23% growth
  • Average salary $35,720
  • Special admission program
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#9

Frontier Community College

Fairfield, IL - Public 2-Year - iecc.edu

Associate - Certified Medical Assistant

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Frontier Community College offers a hybrid Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) program designed to equip students with both clinical and administrative skills essential for the healthcare industry. This program stands out for its hands-on training approach, preparing students for certification through the National Healthcareer Association. With a focus on real-world applications, students learn patient care, medical record management, and the use of medical equipment, alongside computer software skills. The program highlights include internship opportunities and the potential for multiple certifications, setting graduates on a path toward a rewarding career in a field with a projected 23% job growth by 2028 and a median salary of $33,610.

  • Healthcare industry focused program
  • Clinical and administrative training
  • 23% job growth projected
  • Internship opportunities available
  • Multiple certification options
  • Medical equipment training provided
  • Computer software skills taught
  • 2019 median salary $33,610
#10

Lewis and Clark Community College

Godfrey, IL - Public 2-Year - lc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

At Lewis and Clark Community College, the Medical Assisting program is a gateway to a thriving healthcare career, offering an 11-month certificate and an AAS degree pathway. Students gain practical skills in patient care, such as administering injections and performing EKGs, alongside administrative competencies like medical record management. The program's comprehensive RMA exam preparation boasts a 100% pass rate, positioning graduates for success in a field with expanding job opportunities and a dynamic work environment.

  • 11-month certificate
  • AAS degree option
  • Hands-on patient care
  • Administrative training
  • RMA exam prep
  • 100% RMA pass rate
  • Fast-growing field
  • Diverse job opportunities

Associate - Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lewis and Clark Community College offers a robust Medical Assisting program designed to equip students with both clinical and administrative expertise. With options for a quick 11-month Certificate of Proficiency or an extended Associate in Applied Science degree, the program stands out for its hands-on clinical training and a stellar 100% pass rate on the RMA exam. Graduates are well-prepared for the healthcare industry's demands, supported by a 23% job growth projection. Financial aid options like the PATH Grant further enhance accessibility to this career-launching education.

  • Certificate in 11 months
  • AAS degree option
  • 100% RMA exam pass rate
  • Hands-on clinical training
  • 23% job growth projection
  • Clinical and administrative skills
  • PATH Grant available
  • Works with healthcare employers
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Original data: IPEDS 2023, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.
Search Medical Assistant Programs

Get information on Medical Assistant programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

Sponsored Listings

Getting a Medical Assistant Certification in Illinois

In the state of Illinois, medical assistants are not mandated to obtain licensure or certification from state-specific organizations in order to practice in the medical field. However, pursuing certification through nationally recognized organizations can greatly enhance your professional qualifications and improve your chances during the application process.

One such organization is the Illinois Society of Medical Assistants (ISMA). While certification through ISMA is not mandatory, joining this professional association can offer valuable networking opportunities, continuing education resources, and access to industry updates specific to Illinois.

To become a member of the ISMA, you can visit their website and follow the membership application process. They may require proof of completion of an accredited medical assistant program and payment of membership dues.

Additionally, medical assistants in Illinois may also find support and resources from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Although IDFPR does not offer specific certification for medical assistants, they oversee various healthcare professions in the state and provide regulatory guidance.

To pursue medical assistant certification in Illinois, you can follow these general steps:

Education and Training: Enroll in an accredited medical assistant program that adheres to the standards set by recognized accrediting bodies, such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These programs typically provide a comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training, equipping you with the necessary skills and knowledge.

Certification Exam: Upon completion of your education and training, you may opt to take a certification exam offered by nationally recognized organizations like the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). These exams evaluate your proficiency in various medical assistant competencies, encompassing administrative and clinical tasks.

Application Submission: If you choose to pursue certification, submit your application to the relevant organization, following their specific guidelines and requirements. Ensure you include all necessary documentation, such as proof of education, training, and exam results, and pay any applicable fees as stipulated by the organization.

Background Check: Depending on the certification organization and state regulations, a background check may be required as part of the certification process. This step guarantees the safety and integrity of healthcare professionals.

Certification Issuance: After successfully completing the application process, meeting the education, training, and exam requirements, the certification organization will issue your medical assistant certification. This certification validates your competence and confirms your qualifications as a medical assistant.

Finding an Online Medical Assistant Program in Illinois

While many medical assistant programs are available in Illinois, there are currently none that offer online education as an option. This will likely change soon as the current trend amongst colleges since the 2020 pandemic is to make as many courses available online as possible. You can keep tabs on this as it progresses by doing an occasional online search or talking with friends or family already working in the medical profession. If you'd like to check out a few medical assistant programs in Idaho that aren't offered online, check out the Medical Assistant Certificate program offered by Southwestern Illinois College or the Medical Assistant Program offered by Illinois Central College.

Where Can I Find a Job as a Medical Assistant in Illinois?

Your medical assistant program will often have the option of transitioning you into the workplace upon completion. This is often done by giving you the option of jobs in local medical institutions such as Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Loyola University Medical Center, Advocate Sherman Hospital, or any other hospital, medical center, or physician’s office.

What Is the Salary for a Medical Assistant in Illinois?

According to Salary.com, the salary range for medical assistants in Illinois is $34,000 to $46,000. 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 Illinois.

The following cities in Illinois offer medical assistant schools and courses.

Share This:
LinkedIn
Reddit