Seven Affordable Online Medical Assistant Associate’s Degree Programs [Updated 2025]

Medical assistants are crucial in the healthcare industry, bridging the gap between administrative and clinical tasks. Pursuing an associate’s degree is a wise choice if you’re considering a healthcare career and want to become a medical assistant. An associate’s degree in medical assisting can open doors to better job opportunities and increased earning potential. Fortunately, affordable online programs can help you achieve your career goals in 2023. This article will consider seven affordable online medical assistant associate’s degree programs.
Top 7 Affordable Online Medical Assistant Associate Degree Programs
Fresno City College
Fresno, CA - Public 2-Year - fresnocitycollege.edu
Associate - Clinical Medical Assistant
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fresno City College offers a hybrid Clinical Medical Assistant program designed for students aiming to enter the healthcare sector swiftly. This program equips students with the necessary skills to support physicians in various medical settings, including clinics and hospitals. With options for in-person, hybrid, and online learning, it provides flexibility to accommodate different student needs. The curriculum includes hands-on training and a work experience course, ensuring graduates are job-ready. An Associate of Science Degree and a Certificate of Achievement are available, making it an affordable option for those seeking quality education without the high cost. No entrance exam is required for this program.
- Associate of Science Degree available
- Certificate of Achievement offered
- Multiple learning format options
- Cohort model for core classes
- Work experience course included
- Hands-on skill development
- AHLTH 11 and 12 prerequisite courses
Southeast Community College Area
Lincoln, NE - Public 2-Year - southeast.edu
Associate - Medical Assisting
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeast Community College Area offers a hybrid Medical Assisting program designed for those eager to step into the healthcare field. This diploma program, which can be completed in as little as three terms, combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, totaling 225 hours, to ensure students are well-prepared for the demands of the profession. Accredited by CAAHEP, the program covers vital skills such as taking vital signs, performing blood tests, and handling administrative tasks, aligning with the projected 23.5% job growth in this sector. With an estimated total cost of $5,940 and options to start in Fall, Spring, or Summer, it's an affordable pathway to a rewarding career. The program boasts an 85% retention rate and does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, making it accessible to a wide range of students. Available in Lincoln and online, it's a flexible option for aspiring medical assistants.
- Diploma program
- Three-term minimum duration
- Online and in-person options
- 225-hour clinical placement
- Estimated total cost $5,940
- Full-time schedule
- Start terms: Fall/Spring/Summer
- Locations: Lincoln, Online
- 23.5% job growth projection
- CAAHEP accredited program
Eastern Florida State College
Melbourne, FL - Public 4-Year - easternflorida.edu
Associate - Medical Assisting Advanced
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Florida State College's Medical Assisting Advanced program is a hybrid Associate in Science degree designed for those looking to advance their healthcare careers. Building upon a foundational medical assistant certificate, this program enhances clinical, patient care, and administrative skills across 65 credit hours. Offering both on-campus and hybrid learning options, it's ideal for students seeking flexibility. Located at the Cocoa campus, the program requires a prior medical assistant certificate and leads to national certification. With an estimated tuition under $2,200 and financial aid options, it's an affordable pathway to further education, including bachelor's degree opportunities. No entrance exam is mentioned for this program.
- Associate in Science degree
- 65 total credit hours
- On-campus and hybrid delivery
- Located in Cocoa campus
- Requires prior medical assistant certificate
- National certification required
- Estimated tuition under $2,200
- Flexible course options
- Pathway to bachelor's degree
- Financial aid available
College of Western Idaho
Nampa, ID - Public 2-Year - cwi.edu
Associate - Medical Assistant
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The College of Western Idaho offers a hybrid Medical Assistant program designed for those seeking a flexible yet comprehensive education in healthcare. With options for an eight-month Intermediate Technical Certificate or a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree, students can tailor their education to their career goals. The program, accredited by CAAHEP, combines classroom learning with practical training, covering clinical procedures, laboratory techniques, and administrative duties. Priced between $5,158 and $9,160, it's an affordable pathway into the healthcare field, especially with externship opportunities and certification exam preparation included. No entrance exams are required, making it accessible to a wide range of students. The program's hybrid format allows for both online and in-person learning, catering to those who need flexibility. With a 100% employer satisfaction rate and apprenticeship partnerships, graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.
- Associate and Certificate options
- 8-month to 2-year programs
- CAAHEP accredited program
- Cost: $5,158 - $9,160
- Clinical and administrative training
- Certification exam preparation
- Externship opportunities
- Ada County Center location
- 100% employer satisfaction rate
- Apprenticeship partnerships available
South Texas College
McAllen, TX - Public 4-Year - southtexascollege.edu
Associate - Medical Assistant Technology
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
South Texas College offers a hybrid Medical Assistant Technology program designed to equip students with a blend of patient care, administrative, and clinical skills essential for the healthcare industry. This program stands out for its flexibility, combining online coursework with traditional daytime classes, and includes a hands-on internship for real-world experience. Graduates are prepared for various national certifications, enhancing their employability in clinics and hospitals. With options for both certificates and an Associate of Applied Science degree, the program caters to full-time and part-time students, starting in Fall and Spring semesters. A 2.5 GPA is required for entry, and the program is noted for its competitive selection process. The hybrid format and the absence of an entrance exam requirement make it an accessible and affordable option for aspiring medical assistants.
- Associate of Applied Science degree
- Certificate and AAS options
- Online and traditional courses
- Internship experience included
- Multiple national certification opportunities
- 2.5 GPA minimum requirement
- Fall and Spring semester starts
- Full-time and part-time enrollment
- Located at Nursing and Allied Health Campus
- Competitive entry selection process
Phoenix College
Phoenix, AZ - Public 2-Year - phoenixcollege.edu
Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Medical Assisting
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Phoenix College offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Medical Assisting, a hybrid program designed to equip students with both administrative and clinical skills essential for a healthcare career. This program requires 66-74 credits and prepares graduates for the national certification exam, with no ACT or SAT required for admission. Highlights include eligibility for national certification, a requirement for a high school diploma, and the need for a CPR/BLS Provider card. The curriculum covers medical terminology, ethical practices, and professional communication, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application. With an average career wage of $37,790 and 30,520 projected job openings, this program is a gateway to a rewarding career in medical assisting. Phoenix College's program is noted for its affordability, offering transfer options and a structured, career-focused educational experience.
- Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
- 66-74 total credits required
- National certification exam eligible
- High school diploma required
- Must be 18+ years old
- CPR/BLS Provider card needed
- Background check required
- Two certificates prerequisite
- Grade of C or better
- Transfer options available
Houston Community College
Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - hccs.edu
Associate - Medical Assistant
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Houston Community College offers a hybrid Medical Assistant program that blends online and in-person learning, ideal for students seeking flexibility. This program equips students with both administrative and clinical skills, preparing them for a versatile role in healthcare. With options for an Associate of Applied Science degree or certificates, the program is designed for quick entry into the workforce. Notably, it has a 92.74% exam passage rate and is CAAHEP accredited, ensuring quality education. The total cost ranges from $5,171 to $8,319, making it an affordable choice for many. No entrance exam is required for this program, which is open for fall and spring enrollment.
- Associate and Certificate options
- 92.74% exam passage rate
- Multi-skilled healthcare training
- Total cost $5,171-$8,319
- Administrative and clinical skills
- CAAHEP accredited program
- Certification exam preparation
- Fall and spring enrollment
- Credentialing exam options
- Comprehensive medical training
What to Look for in an Online Medical Assistant Associate Degree Program
When selecting a program, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies such as the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards and can impact certification eligibility.
- Curriculum: A comprehensive curriculum should cover both administrative and clinical skills, including anatomy, medical terminology, patient care, and office procedures.
- Clinical Experience: Hands-on training through externships or clinical rotations is crucial for real-world experience.
- Certification Preparation: Programs that prepare students for medical assistant certification exams like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) can enhance job prospects.
Understanding Tuition Costs
Tuition for medical assistant associate degree programs varies widely:
- Community Colleges: Often the most affordable, with in-state tuition ranging from $1,500 to $10,000.
- Private Institutions: Can range from $10,000 to $23,000 or more.
- Online Programs: Typically fall between $3,600 and $9,000, offering flexibility and potential cost savings.
Additional costs may include books, supplies, uniforms, and certification exam fees.
Tips to Save Money on Your Education
- Financial Aid: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs.
- Scholarships: Seek out scholarships specifically for medical assistant students. Organizations like Stepful offer scholarships that can significantly reduce tuition costs.
- State Programs: Some states offer free community college tuition through programs like the California Promise Program, which can cover up to two years of tuition for eligible students.
- Payment Plans: Many institutions offer interest-free payment plans, allowing you to spread out tuition payments over time.
- Military Benefits: If you’re a veteran or active-duty service member, explore education benefits like the GI Bill to cover tuition and related expenses.



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