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.
2026 Best Medical Assistant Programs in California
Southwestern College
Chula Vista, CA - Public 2-Year - swccd.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
This Medical Assisting program at Southwestern College provides comprehensive training in administrative, clinical, and insurance/billing areas. Students gain multi-skilled expertise through state-of-the-art clinic training, leading to certification eligibility with the National Healthcareer Association. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in medical settings, with no prerequisites or entrance exams required, and multiple certificate options available.
- 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
Specializing in Administrative Medical Assisting, this program at Southwestern College focuses on front-office skills like patient communication, scheduling, and records management. It offers practical, industry-aligned education with opportunities for national certification, enhancing career prospects in clinics and physician offices. No prerequisite courses or entrance exams are needed, and training occurs in state-of-the-art facilities.
- 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 trains students in patient care, vital signs recording, and assisting physicians. It provides certification eligibility through the National Healthcareer Association, with no prerequisites and flexible start dates. The state-of-the-art clinic training prepares graduates for rewarding roles in hospitals and clinics, without requiring entrance exams.
- 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 focuses on medical documentation, coding standards, and insurance processing using ICD and CPT guidelines. Students learn to ensure accurate healthcare reimbursement, with certification opportunities through the National Healthcareer Association. This program prepares for critical administrative roles in the growing healthcare sector, with no prerequisites or entrance exams required.
- 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 offers an Associate in Science degree with comprehensive training in both administrative and clinical sectors. Students develop critical thinking and performance skills essential for modern healthcare environments, preparing for diverse careers in hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies. The program includes multiple certificate options and is located at the National City Center, addressing the growing demand for versatile medical professionals without requiring entrance exams.
- 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
Focused on the Administrative concentration, Southwestern College's Medical Assisting program equips students for medical office roles through an Associate in Science degree or specialized certificates. Learners gain expertise in administrative tasks, medical insurance billing, and coding, with training at the National City center. The program meets industry demands for skilled professionals in the expanding healthcare sector, offering multiple career pathways without entrance exam requirements.
- 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 Clinical Medical Assisting program emphasizes hands-on training in clinical procedures, patient care, and medical technologies. Students can pursue an Associate in Science degree or certificates, preparing for roles in hospitals and clinics. Located at the National City campus, it supports the growing healthcare industry with flexible pathways and no entrance exams, fostering careers as multi-skilled professionals.
- 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
Antelope Valley Community College District
Lancaster, CA - Public 4-Year - avc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant
Campus Based - Visit Website
This Medical Assisting program at Antelope Valley College balances clinical and administrative training for roles in medical offices and clinics. Students learn to support healthcare teams with skills in patient care and office management, offered through flexible tracks. Affordable and accessible, it caters to diverse learners without entrance exam requirements, providing a fast-track to employment. The program's practical approach ensures graduates are ready for immediate impact in the healthcare workforce.
- 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
Specializing in the Clinical Medical Assistant concentration, this program at Antelope Valley College focuses on high-demand clinical skills like medical procedures and patient interaction. Students train to work directly with physicians and nurses in various medical environments, preparing for roles that require hands-on expertise. No entrance exams are required, and the program offers practical, career-oriented education for quick entry into healthcare, addressing current workforce needs effectively.
- 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
With a concentration in Medical Assistant, this Antelope Valley College program emphasizes comprehensive training for supporting physicians, nurses, and podiatrists in clinical and administrative tasks. It includes options for Clinical Medical Assistant and Medical Assistant tracks, building skills for medical office roles. The program requires no entrance exams and provides a practical pathway to healthcare careers, blending technical knowledge with real-world applications for immediate job readiness.
- 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
Antelope Valley College's Medical Assisting program offers two distinct tracks—Clinical Medical Assistant and Medical Assistant—providing flexible pathways into healthcare. Students gain essential clinical and administrative skills to work alongside physicians in medical offices and clinics. The program emphasizes hands-on training for roles like patient care and office support, preparing graduates for immediate entry into the dynamic healthcare industry. As a community college program, it features affordable pricing and practical learning, ideal for those seeking a quick career start without requiring entrance exams.
- 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
Focusing on clinical training, this program at Antelope Valley College prepares students to excel under physician and nurse supervision in medical settings. It includes specialized tracks for Clinical Medical Assistant and Medical Assistant roles, emphasizing hands-on skills in patient interaction and medical procedures. The curriculum is designed for rapid entry into healthcare careers, with no entrance exams needed. Graduates are equipped to handle clinical tasks in diverse environments, making it a strategic choice for aspiring professionals.
- Two program tracks available
- Work under medical professionals
- Prepare for medical office careers
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 is a CAAHEP-accredited, 11-month full-time course that delivers comprehensive administrative and clinical training. Students master phlebotomy, patient screening, and medical documentation in state-of-the-art labs, guided by expert faculty. The program boasts a 95% job placement rate and an 82.50% certification exam passage rate, with evening class options for flexibility. It prepares graduates for one of healthcare's fastest-growing fields without requiring an ACT or SAT, as it is not a bachelor's-level program.
- 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 offers an 11-month certificate focused on medical records management, insurance billing, and clinical procedures. Nationally accredited, it features a 95% job placement rate and eligibility for professional certification exams. This career-focused pathway equips students for rapid entry into the expanding healthcare administrative sector, with no ACT or SAT needed since it is not a bachelor's program.
- 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
Pasadena City College's Medical Office Insurance Biller program is an 11-month, CAAHEP-accredited certificate that emphasizes medical records management and insurance billing skills. With a 95% job placement rate, it prepares students for immediate roles in medical offices and clinics, including certification exam eligibility. The program does not require an ACT or SAT, as it is not at the bachelor's level, offering a direct route into the growing healthcare administrative field.
- 11 months full-time enrollment
- 95% job placement rate
- CAAHEP accredited program
- Certification exam eligibility
- Comprehensive administrative skills
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 Certificate focuses on entry-level training for healthcare settings, developing competence in cognitive, psychomotor, and behavioral domains. Students gain practical administrative and clinical skills, positioning them for AAMA certification. With projected job growth outpacing many occupations, graduates with formal training can expect excellent employment opportunities, making this a strategic pathway into the medical field.
- 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
Cosumnes River College's Medical Assisting Administrative Certificate specializes in front-office healthcare roles, emphasizing medical language, documentation, computer applications, and administrative procedures. The 20-21 unit curriculum covers medical terminology, human anatomy, and professional communication, preparing graduates for positions like administrative medical assistant, medical insurance billing, or hospital unit secretary, ensuring quick workforce readiness in physician offices, hospitals, and insurance companies.
- 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 A.S. in Medical Assisting provides comprehensive training for a dynamic healthcare career through both degree and certificate options. The program emphasizes hands-on learning with a 180-hour clinical practicum, preparing students for AAMA certification and immediate employment. Coursework covers administrative and clinical skills, including medical procedures, patient communication, and healthcare technologies, with projected faster-than-average job growth offering multiple career opportunities in an affordable, flexible format.
- 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
Chabot College
Hayward, CA - Public 2-Year - chabotcollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
At Chabot College, the Medical Assisting program provides both an Associate of Science degree and Certificate of Achievement, featuring hands-on clinical experiences in local healthcare settings. With CAAHEP accreditation and a 90% retention rate, graduates are prepared for the Certified Medical Assistant Exam amid a 27% job growth projection, ensuring rigorous training and competitive career readiness.
- 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 an Associate of Science degree or certificate with a projected 27% job growth. The CAAHEP-accredited curriculum includes classroom learning, lab experiences, and clinical training in local healthcare facilities. Graduates are eligible for the Certified Medical Assistant Exam, supported by a 90% student retention rate and median salary of $34,518, preparing for success in this rapidly expanding field.
- 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
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 at Mt. San Jacinto College offers a focused pathway into healthcare support, emphasizing both clinical and administrative competencies. Students develop skills in patient registration, electronic health record management, and direct patient care, preparing for roles in various medical environments like urgent care centers and hospitals. The program includes training for certification exams, boosting professional credentials and job prospects in California's expanding healthcare sector. No entrance exam is needed for this certificate program, making it accessible for career changers and those seeking quick entry into the field.
- 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 A.S. degree is a comprehensive 33.5-unit program that prepares students for diverse healthcare roles. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills in medical administration, clinical procedures, electronic health records, and medical ethics. Hands-on internship experience is integral, allowing students to apply learning in real-world settings. Graduates are equipped to pursue certifications such as Administrative and Clinical Medical Assistant, Medical Scribe, and Medical Billing and Coding Specialist, enhancing employability in hospitals, clinics, and specialty offices without requiring an entrance exam for this associate-level program.
- 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
Moreno Valley College
Moreno Valley, CA - Public 2-Year - mvc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Clinical Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
At Moreno Valley College, the Clinical Medical Assisting program provides thorough training in administrative and clinical competencies for healthcare careers. This two-year associate degree includes 30 units covering patient care, medical procedures, and diagnostic techniques under physician supervision. Students learn essential skills in medical terminology, patient communication, and clinical examinations, preparing them for versatile roles in medical offices and clinics with supervised clinical experience.
- Two pathways: admin/clinical focus
- 30 total program units
- Multiple career options available
- Supervised clinical training
- Learn patient intake procedures
Associate - Clinical Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Moreno Valley College's Clinical Medical Assisting program offers a comprehensive two-year Associate of Science degree with 30 units focused on both administrative and clinical skills. Students receive hands-on training in patient care, diagnostic procedures, and medical office management, preparing them for diverse healthcare careers. The curriculum covers medical terminology, ethics, and practical skills through supervised clinical training, enabling graduates to quickly enter this in-demand field with multiple career pathways.
- Associate of Science degree
- 30 total program units
- Administrative/Clinical focus
- Two-year program completion
- Multiple career pathways
- Supervised clinical training
- Medical office procedures
- Patient intake skills
- Diagnostic procedure training
- Medication administration basics
Irvine Valley College
Irvine, CA - Public 2-Year - ivc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Irvine Valley College's online Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program offers a comprehensive 12-month pathway into healthcare, preparing students for both clinical and administrative roles. With 540 total course hours, the self-paced curriculum covers essential medical terminology, patient care techniques, and professional practices. The program includes a national certification exam voucher and clinical experience opportunities, all for $2,795. No prerequisites are required, and open enrollment makes it accessible for career changers entering a field with a projected 16% job growth.
- 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
Focusing on Electronic Health Records, this dual-certification program at Irvine Valley College combines Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) and Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) training in a 674-hour online format. Students gain expertise in EHR system management, patient data security, and healthcare technology over 12 months. The $3,995 cost includes exam vouchers for both certifications, with no prerequisites required. This program targets the growing demand for professionals skilled in medical terminology, clinical procedures, and administrative tasks in electronic health systems.
- 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 provides focused training for healthcare administration careers through a 160-hour online curriculum completed in 6 months. Covering patient scheduling, medical records management, and insurance processing, the program includes a national certification exam voucher. At $1,895 with self-paced learning and open enrollment, it prepares students for roles in medical offices amid a 16% job market expansion. No entrance exams are required for this certification-level program.
- 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
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 technical and administrative competencies for medical office environments. Students learn patient communication, clinical procedures, and healthcare documentation while preparing to support medical teams through exam assistance, laboratory tests, and insurance form completion. Expert faculty guidance and industry connections via the Advancing San Diego program provide practical experience and professional development opportunities. Key features include Preferred Healthcare Talent Provider designation, faculty-guided training, technical and administrative skill development, professional advancement options, and career-focused medical education.
- 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 develops skilled healthcare professionals adept in both clinical and administrative roles. Through expert faculty guidance, students master critical communication and technical skills essential for medical team support. The curriculum provides comprehensive training in patient care, examination assistance, medical record management, and insurance documentation. Hands-on experience prepares graduates to enhance patient care efficiency in medical facilities. Program highlights include Preferred Healthcare Talent Provider status, professional development opportunities, advisory committee oversight, medical office skills training, patient care communication focus, technical medical competence, and industry connections.
- Preferred Healthcare Talent Provider
- Professional development opportunities
- Advisory Committee oversight
- Medical office skills training
- Patient care communication focus
- Technical medical competence
- Industry connections available
Fresno City College
Fresno, CA - Public 2-Year - fresnocitycollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant - Clinician
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fresno City College's Medical Assistant - Clinician program equips students for diverse medical settings through an Associate of Science degree or Certificate of Achievement. Flexible learning options—in-person, hybrid, and online—support the development of clinical skills and medical assisting techniques. The program focuses on practical knowledge for assisting physicians in patient examinations, diagnoses, and treatments, with cohort models available. No entrance exams such as ACT or SAT are required, making it accessible for career-driven individuals seeking immediate healthcare employment.
- Flexible learning formats
- AS and CA options
- Hands-on skill development
- Multiple medical setting opportunities
- Cohort model available
Associate - Clinical Medical Assistant
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fresno City College's Clinical Medical Assistant program provides comprehensive training for healthcare roles in clinics, hospitals, and offices. Students can pursue an Associate of Science degree or Certificate of Achievement through flexible hybrid, in-person, and online formats. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on skill development and includes a work experience course, with core classes following a cohort model. Prerequisites include AHLTH 11 and 12 courses, preparing graduates for rapid entry into the medical workforce without requiring entrance exams like ACT or SAT.
- 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
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 Certificate of Achievement delivers focused career preparation in just two semesters, emphasizing clinical and administrative medical skills. The program features 180 externship hours and maintains perfect graduate and employer satisfaction rates. Graduates can pursue certification through California Certifying Board, American Medical Technologists, or National Health Career Association, positioning them for roles in physician offices, clinics, and hospitals within Santa Cruz County's healthcare sector, the area's second-largest employer.
- 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 provides a fast-track pathway to healthcare careers through either a two-semester certificate or Associate of Science degree. The Accelerated Medical Assisting Program (AMAP) includes 180 externship hours and comprehensive clinical and administrative training, boasting a 100% graduate and employer satisfaction rate. With applications accepted year-round and fall/spring starts, this intensive program prepares students for immediate employment in California's growing medical field, offering multiple certification options and an average regional salary of $49,718.
- 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
Long Beach City College
Long Beach, CA - Public 2-Year - lbcc.edu
Associate - Medical Assisting: Combined Administrative/Clinical
Campus Based - Visit Website
Long Beach City College's Medical Assisting: Combined Administrative/Clinical program offers a comprehensive two-semester Associate in Science degree or certificate. Students receive training in both administrative and clinical tasks, preparing for immediate employment in physician offices and ambulatory settings. The program features flexible learning options, cohorts of 40 students starting in fall, and no application prerequisites. Graduates are prepared for certification exams and can complete the program in under 10 months, making it an efficient pathway to entry-level healthcare careers with WASC accreditation ensuring quality education.
- Two-semester program completion
- Multiple certificate options
- 40 students per cohort
- Fall semester start
- No application prerequisites
- WASC accredited program
- Entry-level healthcare career
- Administrative and clinical training
- Certification exam preparation
- Mandatory information meetings
Associate - Medical Assisting: Administrative Option
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Medical Assisting: Administrative Option at Long Beach City College focuses on administrative skills for medical office roles. This two-semester program allows students to earn an Associate in Science degree or certificates, with completion possible in less than 10 months. It prepares graduates for certification by five Medical Board of California-approved organizations, emphasizing administrative training without clinical components. With no application prerequisites and a fall start, the program supports quick entry into healthcare administration, backed by WASC accreditation and a structured cohort system for 40 students.
- Two-semester program completion
- Multiple certification options
- Administrative and clinical tracks
- 40 students per cohort
- Fall semester start
- No application prerequisites
- High school diploma required
- Entry-level healthcare careers
- WASC accredited program
Associate - Medical Assisting: Clinical Option
Campus Based - Visit Website
Long Beach City College's Medical Assisting: Clinical Option provides intensive clinical training over two semesters, preparing students for hands-on roles in medical settings. The program includes practical skills in patient interaction and clinical procedures, with multiple certification pathways. It requires a high school diploma but has no other prerequisites, starting only in fall with cohorts of 40. Graduates can swiftly enter the workforce or advance to higher healthcare roles, supported by WASC accreditation and a curriculum designed for entry-level clinical positions in diverse healthcare environments.
- Two-semester program duration
- Multiple certification options
- 40 students per cohort
- Falls semester start only
- No application prerequisites
- High school diploma required
- Administrative and clinical tracks
- WASC accredited program
- Entry-level healthcare career
Allan Hancock College
Santa Maria, CA - Public 2-Year - hancockcollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Allan Hancock College offers a 26.5-unit Medical Assisting Certificate program delivered on campus, preparing students for roles in physician clinics and urgent care settings. This comprehensive two-semester curriculum blends clinical and administrative training, covering patient communication and medical procedures. Prerequisites include English 101 and Pre-Algebra with a minimum 'C' grade. Graduates are eligible for California Medical Assistant certification, and the program includes an externship for hands-on experience. No specific concentration is highlighted, and as a certificate program, it does not require entrance exams like ACT or SAT.
- 26.5-unit certificate program
- California certification eligible
- Physician clinic preparation
- Clinical and administrative training
- Prerequisites: ENGL 101, MATH 531
- Includes externship experience
- Two-semester comprehensive curriculum
De Anza College
Cupertino, CA - Public 2-Year - deanza.edu
Associate - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
De Anza College's Medical Assisting Associate in Science degree delivers a comprehensive 18-month curriculum that integrates clinical and administrative training. Students develop hands-on skills in vital sign monitoring, minor surgical assistance, and EKG technology, alongside administrative competencies for healthcare settings. The program emphasizes practical experience, preparing graduates for roles in physician offices, clinics, and other medical facilities. No entrance exam is required for this associate-level program, and flexible part-time study options are available to accommodate diverse schedules.
- Associate in Science degree
- 18 months full-time completion
- Clinical and administrative skills
- Multiple career opportunities
- Part-time study available
- Skills include EKG, patient care
- Job options: medical offices, clinics
Rio Hondo College
Whittier, CA - Public 4-Year - riohondo.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Rio Hondo College's Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) online program offers a flexible 12-month pathway into healthcare, covering essential clinical and administrative skills. With 540 course hours and a self-paced format, it includes a certification exam voucher and costs $2,795. Graduates are prepared for roles with a projected 16% job growth and an average salary of $43,464, with no prerequisites required.
- 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
The Noncredit Healthcare Clerical Medical Assistant program at Rio Hondo College focuses on administrative roles, providing training in medical office procedures and software. This campus-based vocational program allows students to earn multiple certificates, such as Medical Office Assistant, and emphasizes job readiness with instruction from experienced healthcare professionals for entry-level positions.
- 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 online program delivers 380 hours of training in clinical tasks like vital signs and lab procedures. Aligned with NHA certification, it includes an exam voucher, costs $2,295, and requires a high school diploma. Graduates can enter a field with 16% job growth and a median salary of $37,190, with optional clinical experience.
- 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
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 8 schools
- Irvine, CA 24 schools
- Los Angeles, CA 44 schools
- Oakland, CA 16 schools
- Pasadena, CA 36 schools
- Sacramento, CA 11 schools
- San Diego, CA 10 schools
- San Francisco, CA 14 schools
- San Jose, CA 16 schools
- Stockton/Modesto, CA 16 schools