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.

2026 Best Medical Assistant Programs in Illinois

#1

Lincoln Land Community College

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

Certificate/Diploma - Clinical Medical Assistant

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lincoln Land Community College's Clinical Medical Assistant program prepares students for dynamic healthcare roles, offering comprehensive training in administrative and clinical medical tasks. The program costs $4,490, including textbooks and certification exam, and provides hands-on learning through a 160-hour clinical externship. Students gain critical skills in patient care, medical records management, and practice operations, positioning themselves for immediate employment in various medical settings.

  • 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

The CNA to Clinical Medical Assistant Bridge program offers certified nursing assistants an accelerated pathway to expand their healthcare career. Designed for professionals with 300 verifiable CNA hours, this comprehensive program equips students with advanced administrative and clinical skills. With a total cost of $2,149 including textbooks and certification exam, the program prepares students for national certifications like Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) and National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA). Students gain hands-on training through classroom instruction and a 60-hour externship, positioning themselves for exciting opportunities in the rapidly growing healthcare sector.

  • 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 ˅
#2

Black Hawk College

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

Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Embark on a dynamic healthcare career with Black Hawk College's Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program. This comprehensive online training prepares students to become versatile medical professionals in high-demand healthcare settings. With 540 course hours and flexible self-paced learning, students gain essential skills in both clinical and administrative tasks. The program includes a voucher for the national certification exam, offering a direct pathway to professional credentials. Graduates can expect competitive salaries averaging $43,464 annually, with a projected job market growth of 16% through 2031. Ideal for career changers and healthcare enthusiasts seeking a flexible, rewarding profession.

  • 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

Unlock a dynamic healthcare career with this comprehensive online training program in Electronic Health Records. Designed for aspiring medical professionals, this course prepares students for two critical certifications: Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) and Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS). Students gain comprehensive skills in medical terminology, patient care, and electronic health record management, with exam vouchers included. The program offers flexible, self-paced learning accessible from home, covering essential skills like patient communication, medical documentation, and HIPAA compliance. Ideal for career changers and healthcare enthusiasts, the course provides a robust pathway to a growing field with projected job market growth of 16% 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 prepares students for dynamic healthcare support roles, offering a comprehensive 30-credit certificate that equips professionals with critical clinical and administrative skills. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical courses and an internship, learning medical terminology, office procedures, and patient care techniques. The program addresses growing healthcare industry demands, training versatile medical professionals capable of managing patient intake, diagnostic procedures, and complex administrative tasks in modern medical settings.

  • 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
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#3

Northwestern College

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

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting Certificate Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Northwestern College's Medical Assisting Certificate Program prepares students for dynamic healthcare support roles. This comprehensive hybrid program equips learners with essential clinical and administrative skills needed in modern medical settings. Students gain hands-on experience through a 160-hour externship, learning critical tasks like patient care, medical record management, and diagnostic procedures. The curriculum covers anatomy, medical terminology, pharmacology, and healthcare ethics, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for certification exams and professional success.

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

Lewis and Clark Community College

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

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

Launch your healthcare career with Lewis and Clark Community College's Medical Assisting program. This program offers a Certificate of Proficiency in 11 months and an Associate in Applied Science degree in two additional semesters. Gain hands-on experience in patient care, including taking vitals, administering injections, and performing EKGs. Learn administrative skills like medical record keeping and practice management. Prepare for the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam, boasting a 100% pass rate. Join a rapidly growing field with diverse employment opportunities.

  • 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's Medical Assisting program prepares students for a dynamic healthcare career with comprehensive training in patient care and administrative skills. Students can complete a Certificate of Proficiency in just 11 months or pursue an Associate in Applied Science degree in two additional semesters. The program offers intensive hands-on clinical training, preparing graduates for various medical settings with a 100% exam pass rate and promising job prospects in a rapidly growing field.

  • 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 ˅
#5

Frontier Community College

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

Associate - Certified Medical Assistant

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Dive into the dynamic world of healthcare with Frontier Community College's Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) program. This comprehensive two-year associate degree prepares students for a thriving career in medical settings, offering hands-on training and potential certification through the National Healthcareer Association. With a projected job growth of 23% by 2028 and a median salary of $33,610, students gain valuable skills in clinical and administrative tasks, from patient care to medical record management, ensuring a promising professional future.

  • 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
#6

Highland Community College

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

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant

Campus Based - Visit Website

Dive into a dynamic healthcare career with Highland Community College's Medical Assistant program. In just 10 months, students can earn a certificate or associate degree with exceptional job prospects. The program provides comprehensive training in clinical skills, patient care, and administrative reporting, preparing graduates for diverse roles in medical settings. Students benefit from small class sizes, hands-on learning, and CAAHEP-accredited curriculum. With flexible two-day-per-week classes and opportunities for national certification, this program offers a streamlined pathway to a rewarding healthcare profession.

  • 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 offers a comprehensive Medical Assistant program designed to launch students into dynamic healthcare careers. Participants can choose between a certificate or associate degree, preparing for roles in physician offices, hospitals, and clinics. The program provides hands-on training through lectures, labs, and clinical practice, emphasizing both clinical skills and administrative reporting. Students benefit from small class sizes, flexible scheduling, and opportunities to earn nationally recognized certification. Graduates can explore diverse career paths with strong job market potential.

  • 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 ˅
#7

Carl Sandburg College

Galesburg, IL - Public 2-Year - sandburg.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Carl Sandburg College's Medical Assisting program prepares students for a dynamic healthcare career with comprehensive training in both administrative and clinical skills. This hybrid program offers flexible learning options, equipping students to perform essential medical tasks across various healthcare settings. With a 100% job placement rate, students gain hands-on experience through labs and an externship, learning vital skills like patient documentation, vital sign monitoring, and medical office procedures. The program is accredited by CAAHEP and provides pathways to national certification exams, positioning graduates for immediate employment in a rapidly growing healthcare field.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Accredited medical assisting program
  • 100% job placement rate
  • Nationally recognized certification
  • Comprehensive clinical and administrative training
  • Flexible course scheduling
  • 34 credit-hour program
  • Estimated total cost: $8,689
  • Multiple certification exam options
  • Externship opportunity included
#8

Lake Land College

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

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lake Land College's Medical Assistant program provides comprehensive training for aspiring healthcare professionals. Students learn both clinical and administrative skills, preparing for a rapidly growing career field with excellent job prospects. The CAAHEP-accredited program offers a hybrid format with online classes and evening labs, ensuring flexibility for working students. Graduates consistently achieve a 100% certification exam pass rate and enjoy high job placement rates, with medical assistants earning an average of $35,720 annually. The curriculum covers essential skills like patient care, phlebotomy, and medical office procedures.

  • 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 offers a comprehensive training pathway for aspiring healthcare professionals. Students gain both clinical and administrative skills through a CAAHEP-accredited curriculum preparing them for dynamic roles in medical settings. The hybrid program allows flexible learning with online classes and evening labs, enabling students to balance education and work. With a remarkable 100% certification exam pass rate and 90% job placement, graduates are well-positioned for immediate career opportunities in doctors' offices and healthcare facilities.

  • 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

Parkland College

Champaign, IL - Public 2-Year - parkland.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

Parkland College's Medical Assistant program equips students with comprehensive skills in both clinical and administrative healthcare settings. Graduates learn critical tasks like medical records management, patient scheduling, vital sign monitoring, and medical procedure assistance. The program boasts impressive outcomes, including a 93% retention rate and 100% national certification exam pass rate. Students gain hands-on experience through local clinic partnerships, preparing them for diverse healthcare career opportunities. With high employer satisfaction and strong job placement rates, this program offers a solid pathway into the medical profession.

  • 100% NHA Exam Pass Rate
  • 93% Student Retention
  • 80% Job Placement Rate
  • Clinical and Administrative Training
  • National Certification Eligible

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting: Accelerated Career (CNA to CMA Bridge)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Medical Assisting: Accelerated Career (CNA to CMA Bridge) program provides certified nursing assistants a fast-track pathway into medical assisting. This comprehensive certificate program equips healthcare professionals with advanced clinical and administrative skills, preparing them for roles in diverse medical settings. Students learn critical competencies including medical records management, patient scheduling, vital sign monitoring, EKGs, venipuncture, and medication administration. Designed for working CNAs, the program requires 12 semester hours and offers certification exam eligibility through the National Healthcareer Association.

  • Accelerated CNA to CMA pathway
  • 12 semester credit hours
  • Employer-based externship
  • NHA certification eligible
  • Clinical and administrative training
  • Requires 300 CNA hours
  • Two sequential semesters
  • Minimum 2.50 GPA required
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#10

Rend Lake College

Ina, IL - Public 2-Year - rlc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assistant

Campus Based - Visit Website

Rend Lake College's Medical Assistant program offers a comprehensive two-year Associate in Applied Science degree and a 36-hour certificate designed to launch your healthcare career. Students gain essential skills in both administrative and clinical tasks, preparing to take the national certification exam. The curriculum covers critical areas like pharmacology, anatomy, patient care, medical billing, and healthcare terminology. Graduates can quickly enter the workforce with high job market demand, minimal prior experience requirements, and flexibility to specialize in administrative or clinical settings.

  • 66 total credit hours
  • Campus-based program
  • National certification preparation
  • Administrative and clinical training
  • Practicum included
  • OSHA and HIPAA standards
  • Medical law and ethics courses
  • Multiple healthcare skills learned
*Source: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/
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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.

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