Medical Assistant Programs & Certification in Florida
If you've ever wondered what it's like to be in the medical field, but are unsure where to start, a medical assistant position is a great way to get your foot in the door. Medical assistants must schedule appointments, prepare patients for medical procedures, and file and mail paperwork. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be a 19% increase in medical assisting positions in the next decade, leaving plenty of room for you to advance in this rewarding position. Becoming a medical assistant typically doesn't require any certification or extra education. Still, it can be beneficial to enroll in a medical assistant program to give yourself better placement amongst applicants and better prepare yourself for the workplace. For this reason, we've created this simple guide to help you navigate Florida-based online medical assisting programs.
2026 Best Medical Assistant Programs in Florida
Eastern Florida State College
Melbourne, FL - Public 4-Year - easternflorida.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant Specialist
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Florida State College's Medical Assistant Specialist Certificate is a 44-credit hybrid program training students in clinical procedures like phlebotomy and EKG, plus administrative tasks such as coding. Delivered at Cocoa and Palm Bay campuses, it includes practicum experience and eligibility for National AMT Certification. No entrance exam is needed, with financial aid options for those with a high school diploma, leading to state certifications in diverse medical environments.
- 44 total credit hours
- Hybrid learning format
- National AMT Certification eligible
- Multiple campus locations
- Leads to state certifications
- Financial aid available
- Requires high school diploma
- Clinical and administrative training
- Practicum experience included
Associate - Medical Assisting Advanced
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Florida State College's Medical Assisting Advanced Associate in Science degree builds upon a foundational certificate, requiring just 21 additional credits. This hybrid program enhances clinical and administrative skills for expanded healthcare roles, offering flexible learning with on-campus and online options. Students can transfer credits toward bachelor's degrees, with tuition under $2,200 and financial aid available. National certification is required, preparing graduates for dynamic medical settings without entrance exam prerequisites.
- 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
University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL - Public 4-Year - uwf.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant Training (CCMA)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of West Florida's 16-week Certified Clinical Medical Assistant hybrid program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. Students develop essential patient care and medical procedure skills while preparing for NHA certification, with a 100% exam pass rate. The program includes 96 classroom hours and an optional 80-hour externship, providing practical training from experienced practitioners. With no degree application required and a $4,500 total cost covering exam and materials, this program offers an efficient entry into the rapidly growing healthcare field.
- 16-week hybrid training program
- 100% NHA exam pass rate
- Tuition includes exam, materials
- No degree application required
- $4,500 total program cost
- 96 classroom hours
- 80-hour externship available
- High job growth projection
- NHA certification preparation
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Medical Administrative Assistant
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of West Florida's 13-week online Certified Medical Administrative Assistant program delivers comprehensive training for medical office roles. Students gain expertise in patient communication, medical records, and insurance processing while preparing for the NHA certification exam. The $4,100 tuition includes 78 instructional hours with live virtual instruction, offering flexibility for career changers. Military spouse funding is available, and no degree application is required, making this an accessible pathway to administrative positions in various healthcare settings with strong job growth projections.
- 13-week online certification
- 78 total instructional hours
- Prepares for NHA exam
- $4,100 total tuition
- No degree application required
- Military spouse funding available
- Live virtual instruction
- High job growth projection
- Work in multiple healthcare settings
Southeastern College-West Palm Beach
West Palm Beach, FL - Private 4-year - sec.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeastern College-West Palm Beach offers a Medical Assisting Certificate program in a hybrid format, ideal for students seeking flexible education. This 8- to 16-month program combines online learning with in-person components, covering clinical procedures like patient care and lab testing, as well as administrative tasks such as billing and electronic health records management. An externship provides real-world experience, and the program is available at multiple campuses with full-time or part-time schedules. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED; no entrance exams are specified. It is military-friendly and includes bilingual options, preparing graduates for diverse medical settings.
- 8-16 month program length
- Hybrid learning options
- Multiple campus locations
- Clinical and administrative training
- Externship included
- Bilingual program available
- Certificate, diploma, and degree options
- High school diploma required
- Full and part-time schedules
Pasco-Hernando State College
New Port Richey, FL - Public 4-Year - phsc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
Online Learning - Visit Website
This online Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program at Pasco-Hernando State College provides 380 hours of self-paced training over 12 months, focusing on patient care, vital sign measurement, and medical terminology to prepare for the NHA CCMA certification. Open enrollment with no entrance exams required, the $2,395 course includes an exam voucher and CPR certification, targeting a 16% job market growth by 2031 and optional clinical experience for career advancement.
- Online medical assistant training
- 380 total course hours
- CCMA exam preparation
- 12-month flexible access
- Self-paced learning
- Includes certification voucher
- Optional clinical experience
- CPR certification included
- Open enrollment
- High job market demand
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant + Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist
Online Learning - Visit Website
Combining Certified Clinical Medical Assistant and Electronic Health Records Specialist training, this 12-month online program at Pasco-Hernando State College covers 674 hours in patient care, EHR management with MOSS 4.0 software, and HIPAA compliance. Priced at $4,095 with included certification vouchers, it features open enrollment, no prerequisites or entrance exams, and leverages a 16% job growth projection, offering flexible, self-paced learning for dual-role healthcare positions.
- 12-month online training
- 674 total course hours
- Certification exam vouchers included
- Self-paced learning
- Open enrollment
- No prerequisites required
- National Healthcareer Association certification
- Potential clinical experience opportunity
- Learn EHR software MOSS 4.0
- Covers medical terminology comprehensively
Associate - Medical Assistant
Campus Based - Visit Website
Pasco-Hernando State College's campus-based Medical Assistant certificate program spans three semesters, equipping students with essential clinical skills like phlebotomy and patient examination alongside administrative competencies. With open access admission requiring TABE testing, background checks, and drug screening, this program prepares graduates for a field with 23% projected job growth and median wages of $16.31/hour, offering an affordable in-state tuition of $3,805.06 and fall intake opportunities.
- Three-semester program
- West Campus location
- Prepares medical assistants
- 23% job growth projected
- Skills include phlebotomy
- Fall semester intake
- CPR certification required
- In-state tuition $3,805.06
- TABE test requirement
- Background check needed
Lake-Sumter State College
Leesburg, FL - Public 4-Year - lssc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lake-Sumter State College's Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program delivers comprehensive online training for versatile healthcare roles. This 540-hour certification covers medical terminology, patient care, and clinical procedures, preparing students for administrative and clinical duties. Priced at $2,795, it includes a CCMA exam voucher and potential clinical experience, with 12 months of self-paced access and no prerequisites required. Ideal for career starters seeking affordable, flexible entry into high-demand medical settings.
- Online medical assistant certification
- 540 course hours
- 12 months access
- $2,795 total cost
- CCMA exam voucher included
- Open enrollment
- Self-paced learning
- No prerequisites required
- Potential clinical experience
- Covers administrative tasks
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant for the Experienced CMAA
Online Learning - Visit Website
Designed for experienced professionals, Lake-Sumter State College's Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program offers 380 hours of online training focused on clinical skills like vital sign measurement and specimen collection. At $2,295, it includes a CCMA exam voucher and optional clinical experience, with 12-month self-paced access. This certification pathway emphasizes high job market demand and prepares learners for National Healthcareer Association certification without entrance exams.
- 380 course hours
- Online self-paced training
- 12-month course access
- CCMA exam voucher included
- Optional clinical experience
- $2,295 total cost
- High job market demand
- Comprehensive medical skills training
- Certification exam preparation
- Open enrollment available
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant + Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist
Concentration: Electronic Health Records - Online Learning - Visit Website
Lake-Sumter State College's dual certification program combines Certified Clinical Medical Assistant and Electronic Health Records Specialist training, focusing on EHR concentration. This 674-hour online course covers patient care, medical terminology, and EHR systems over 12 months, priced from $3,995. It includes exam vouchers and clinical opportunities, preparing students for roles in the growing healthcare field with no prerequisites or entrance exams required.
- 12-month online program
- 674 total course hours
- Certification exam vouchers included
- Self-paced learning format
- National Healthcareer Association certification
- Clinical experience opportunity
- No prerequisites required
- Covers administrative and clinical tasks
Orange Technical College-West Campus
Winter Garden, FL - Public 2-Year - orangetechcollege.net
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Orange Technical College-West Campus delivers a robust 1,300-hour Medical Assisting program that immerses students in both clinical and administrative healthcare roles. Through hands-on training, learners master patient care, exam assistance, lab testing, and medical office management, preparing for certifications like AAMA and AMT. The program stands out by offering articulation credits toward Valencia College's Medical Administration AS degree, facilitating seamless career progression. Financial aid and disability accommodations are available, with a CASAS assessment required for entry, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for immediate employment in diverse medical settings.
- 1,300-hour comprehensive program
- Clinical and administrative training
- Industry certification options
- Valencia College credit articulation
- Patient care skill development
- Multiple campus locations
- CASAS assessment required
- Financial aid available
- Disability accommodations offered
Daytona State College
Daytona Beach, FL - Public 4-Year - daytonastate.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Daytona State College's Medical Assisting Certificate is a limited access, campus-based program that delivers comprehensive training for healthcare careers. Students gain essential medical knowledge, technical skills, and hands-on clinical experience through rotations. The program boasts an 81% national certification exam pass rate and a 96% graduate/employer satisfaction rate, preparing graduates for roles in physician offices, ambulatory care centers, and multi-physician clinics. Accredited by CAAHEP, it emphasizes safety, practical training, and professional development, with credentials available through AAMA/AMT. As a certificate program, it does not require an ACT or SAT entrance exam.
- Limited access healthcare program
- 81% national certification exam pass rate
- Clinical rotation opportunities
- Comprehensive medical training
- 96% graduate/employer satisfaction rate
- CAAHEP accredited program
- Campus-based medical training
- Credentials through AAMA/AMT
Florida International University
Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - fiu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida International University's online Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program delivers comprehensive clinical training through a flexible, self-paced format with 12-month access. This 380-hour course covers essential skills like medical terminology, patient care procedures, and healthcare technology, preparing students for the NHA CCMA certification with an included exam voucher. Designed for experienced medical assistants, it offers optional clinical experience and is taught by industry-experienced instructors. With a projected 16% job growth through 2031, graduates are well-positioned for competitive roles in healthcare. The program costs $2,295 and focuses on building practical expertise for dynamic medical settings.
- Online self-paced training
- 380 total course hours
- 12-month course access
- CCMA exam voucher included
- $2,295 course price
- Optional clinical experience
- Prepares for NHA certification
- Covers medical terminology
- Experienced medical industry instructor
Indian River State College
Fort Pierce, FL - Public 4-Year - irsc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
At Indian River State College, the Medical Assisting program focuses on developing essential clinical skills, including administering medications and performing blood draws, through 150-hour skill modules. Accredited by CAAHEP, it prepares students for the Certified Medical Assistant Exam with a first-come, first-served admission process. Graduates are equipped for dynamic healthcare roles in clinics and physicians' offices, leveraging hands-on training to enter this rapidly expanding field with strong employment opportunities.
- Accredited by CAAHEP
- Certification exam preparation
- Clinical and administrative skills
- 150-hour skill modules
- First-come, first-served selection
- Comprehensive healthcare training
Associate - Medical Assisting
Campus Based - Visit Website
Indian River State College's CAAHEP-accredited Medical Assisting program offers comprehensive clinical and administrative training, preparing students for the Certified Medical Assistant Certification Exam. With a first-come, first-served selection process and a May 9, 2025 application deadline, students gain hands-on experience in vital medical procedures like drawing blood and managing records. The program requires a $30 application fee, physical examination, and background check, positioning graduates for roles in physicians' offices and clinics within one of healthcare's fastest-growing careers.
- CAAHEP accredited program
- Fall 2025 application deadline: May 9
- $30 non-refundable application fee
- Eligible for CMA certification exam
- First-come, first-served selection
- Comprehensive clinical skills training
- Multiple program information sessions
- Physical examination required
- Background check mandatory
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, FL - Private 4-year - fit.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida Institute of Technology's online Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program prepares students for NHA certification with comprehensive clinical training. This 100% online course requires no prerequisites and covers vital sign measurement, patient interaction, medical records management, and procedural support. With a projected 16% job growth and average salary of $37,370, it offers flexible entry into the expanding healthcare field. The program emphasizes practical medical assisting skills and medical office management for aspiring professionals.
- 100% Online Course
- No Prerequisites Required
- NHA Certification Preparation
- Comprehensive Healthcare Training
- Flexible Medical Assisting Skills
Getting a Medical Assistant Certification in Florida
In Florida, medical assistants are not required to obtain licensure or certification from state organizations in order 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 and enhance your professional qualifications.
To become a certified medical assistant in Florida, you can follow these general steps:
Education and Training: Complete an accredited medical assistant program that meets the criteria set by organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). 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 may choose to take a certification exam offered by organizations such as the AAMA or the NHA. These exams assess your understanding of various medical assistant competencies, including clinical and administrative tasks.
Application Submission: Once you pass the certification exam, you can submit your application for certification to the respective organization. Follow their specific guidelines and provide any required documentation, including proof of education, training, and exam results. Pay the necessary fees as specified by the organization.
Certification Issuance: Upon successful completion of the application process and meeting the certification requirements, the organization will issue your medical assistant certification. This certification demonstrates your competency and validates your qualifications as a medical assistant.
While there are no specific state organizations for medical assistant certification in Florida, obtaining certification from nationally recognized organizations such as the AAMA or the NHA can greatly enhance your professional qualifications and increase your job prospects. These certifications are widely recognized and respected in the healthcare industry, including in Florida.
To stay updated with any changes or requirements specific to Florida, you can visit the Florida Department of Health website or contact the Florida Board of Medicine. These state organizations can provide information and resources related to the practice of medical assistants in Florida and any regulatory updates that may affect your career.
Finding an Online Medical Assistant Program in Florida
Florida provides a wide range of online medical assistant programs to meet the diverse needs of aspiring professionals. One notable program is the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program offered by the University of Central Florida. Exploring their program website can provide valuable information about the curriculum and its suitability for your career goals. Additionally, conducting an online search can help you discover other reputable programs available in Florida. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals or career advisors familiar with these programs can further assist you in making an informed decision.
Where Can I Find a Job as a Medical Assistant in Florida?
To explore job opportunities as a medical assistant in Florida, consider utilizing online job boards such as Indeed, CareerBuilder, or the official Florida Healthcare Job Portal. Additionally, reaching out to hospitals, medical clinics, and healthcare facilities directly can help you discover available positions. Prominent medical establishments in Florida, such as Jackson Memorial Hospital, Baptist Health South Florida, and Florida Hospital Orlando, often advertise job openings on their websites.
What Is the Salary for a Medical Assistant in Florida?
The salary range for medical assistants in Florida can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and additional certifications. According to Salary.com, the average salary range for medical assistants in Florida is approximately $31,000 to $42,000 per year. However, it’s important to note that salaries may vary depending on individual circumstances, employer policies, and the specific healthcare setting.
Get More information on medical assistant salaries in Florida.
The following cities in Florida offer medical assistant schools and courses.
- Fort Lauderdale, FL 19 schools
- Jacksonville, FL 6 schools
- Miami, FL 22 schools
- Orlando, FL 9 schools
- St. Petersburg, FL 5 schools
- Tallahassee, FL 4 schools
- Tampa, FL 6 schools