If you're a Tennessee resident interested in becoming a medical assistant, then you're likely already familiar with the duties typically involved with the job including filing paperwork, preparing patients for medical procedures, and working with both patients and doctors to assure that the medical process runs smoothly. If you want to be trained for this exciting new career, we've prepared this guide to give you the resources you need to find an online program that's right for you. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be a 19% increase in medical assisting positions within the next decade which means that once you've received your education, finding a job as a medical assistant in the state will likely be a fairly quick and seamless process.

Finding an Online Medical Assistant Program in Tennessee

Online and campus-based medical assistant programs are easy to find in Tennessee. If you're already working in the medical profession, try talking to colleagues or supervisors to see if they know of any programs that may be of interest to you. One example of a great medical assistant program available online is the Online Medical Assistant and Electronic Health Records Course available at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology. It’s always recommended to choose a medical assistant program that is fully accredited, offers the program type you want (diploma/certificate or associate’s degree), and has a high graduation rate.

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2026 Best Medical Assistant Programs in Tennessee

If you want to become a medical assistant in Tennessee, finding the right program is key to starting your career. At medicalassistantonline.org, we have carefully reviewed and ranked the best options across the state to help you make a smart choice. Our list includes programs that offer solid training, hands-on experience, and good support for students. We focus on what matters most, like job placement rates and curriculum quality, so you can trust our picks. Check out our detailed rankings to see which schools stand out and why we chose them. For more on how we put together these rankings, visit https://www.medicalassistantonline.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

South College

Knoxville, TN - Private 4-year - south.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Certificate in Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

South College's Certificate in Medical Assisting provides flexible online and hybrid learning options with 180 hours of clinical experience. This CAAHEP-accredited program covers medical lab procedures, clinical techniques, and pharmacology while preparing students for AAMA certification exams. Available at multiple campuses, it emphasizes practical skills development for roles in medical offices and clinics without requiring entrance exams for this certificate-level program.

  • Online and hybrid learning options
  • 180 hours clinical experience
  • CAAHEP accredited program
  • Certification exam preparation
  • Multiple campus locations available

Certificate/Diploma - Certificate in Medical Assisting with a Concentration in Phlebotomy Technician

Concentration: Phlebotomy Technician - Campus Based - Visit Website

Specializing in phlebotomy technician concentration, South College's Certificate in Medical Assisting blends online coursework with hands-on training including a 180-hour practicum. Students gain expertise in blood collection methods alongside medical office administration and clinical procedures. The program prepares graduates for national certification and offers multiple campus locations with no entrance exam requirements for this career-focused certificate pathway.

  • 180 hours clinical practicum
  • Prepares for certification exam
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Online and in-person classes
  • Specialized phlebotomy concentration

Associate - Associate of Science in Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

South College's Associate of Science in Medical Assisting delivers comprehensive training in clinical and administrative skills through a hybrid program format. Students complete 180 hours of hands-on field training, gaining practical experience in medical procedures, patient care, and office management. Ranked #3 nationally for associate-level programs, it emphasizes professional communication and medical lab procedures. This campus-based program offers multiple locations and prepares graduates for immediate entry into healthcare careers without requiring ACT or SAT exams.

  • Hybrid program modality
  • 180 hours field experience
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Clinical and administrative skills
  • Medical lab procedures training
  • Practical hands-on learning
  • Professional communication focus
  • Practicum in medical facilities

Associate - Associate of Science in Medical Assisting w/ Phlebotomy Technician Concentration

Concentration: Phlebotomy Technician - Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on phlebotomy technician concentration, South College's Associate of Science in Medical Assisting combines rigorous classroom instruction with 180 hours of clinical practicum. Students develop specialized skills in blood collection techniques alongside core medical assisting competencies. The on-ground program at multiple campuses prepares graduates for national certification and employment in laboratories and medical facilities. No ACT or SAT exams are required for this associate-level pathway into healthcare.

  • Onground program delivery
  • 180 hours clinical practicum
  • Phlebotomy technician concentration
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Medical lab procedure training
  • Professional communication skills
  • National certification preparation
  • Practical hands-on training
  • Medical office administrative skills
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

Cleveland State Community College

Cleveland, TN - Public 2-Year - clevelandstatecc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

At Cleveland State Community College, the Medical Assisting program leads to an Associate of Applied Science in 63 credit hours, accredited by CAAHEP. It emphasizes clinical and administrative training, including medical terminology and externships, with a 78.57% job placement rate and 100% retention. Students are prepared for CMA certification, leveraging the projected 18% job growth in healthcare. This campus-based program does not require entrance exams like ACT or SAT, as it is at the associate level, focusing on practical skills for diverse settings.

  • Associate's or Certificate Option
  • 63 Credit Hours for A.A.S.
  • CAAHEP Accredited Program
  • 100% Program Retention Rate
  • 18% Job Growth Projected
  • Clinical and Administrative Training
  • Practical Externship Experience
  • Preparation for CMA Certification

Associate - Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

Cleveland State Community College's Medical Assisting program offers an Associate of Applied Science or certificate, requiring 63 or 39 credit hours respectively. It is CAAHEP accredited and includes an externship, focusing on administrative and clinical skills like electronic health records and patient care. With a 100% retention rate and preparation for certification exams, it targets the Bureau of Labor's projected 18% job growth, providing hands-on training for immediate healthcare employment without requiring entrance exams for this associate-level program.

  • A.A.S. or Certificate options
  • 63 credit hours for A.A.S.
  • 39 credit hours for Certificate
  • Main Campus location
  • CAAHEP accredited program
  • Certification exam preparation
  • 100% 2022 student retention
  • Externship included
  • Bureau of Labor projected growth
  • Administrative and clinical training
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Jackson

Jackson, TN - Public 2-Year - tcatjackson.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Patient Care Technology/Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Jackson's Patient Care Technology/Medical Assisting program delivers intensive 12-month training with 1,296 clock hours, preparing students for immediate healthcare roles. The curriculum covers nurse aid, anatomy, medical terminology, EKG technology, phlebotomy, and medical assistance, offering multiple certification pathways. With total costs under $6,100, it's an affordable option that requires a high school diploma and the HESI entrance exam. Day classes and multiple campus locations enhance accessibility for aspiring professionals seeking rapid entry into diverse medical settings.

  • 12-month full-time program
  • 1,296 total clock hours
  • Multiple healthcare certifications
  • Total cost under $6,100
  • Day class schedule
  • HESI entrance exam required
  • High school diploma needed
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Certificate and diploma options
#4

Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga

Chattanooga, TN - Private 4-year - miller-motte.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Clinical Assistant

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga's Clinical Medical Assistant program provides a fast-track, 13-15 month hybrid path into healthcare, combining hands-on clinical training with externships for practical experience. Students learn patient care, lab testing, and medical record management, with an emphasis on infection control and safety protocols. This career-focused approach capitalizes on a projected 16% job growth by 2031, offering a quick entry into dynamic healthcare roles without requiring entrance exams for this associate-level program.

  • 13-15 month program duration
  • Hands-on clinical training
  • Externship experience included
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Career-focused healthcare preparation

Associate - Medical Assisting

Online Learning - Visit Website

Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga offers a fully online Associate's Degree in Medical Assisting, ideal for healthcare professionals seeking advancement. This accelerated program can be completed in 4-6 months and builds on prior clinical assistant training, focusing on interpersonal communication, psychology, and administrative practices. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles such as Clinical, Administrative, and Specialized Medical Assistant positions, with flexible scheduling and affordable options enhancing accessibility for career transformation.

  • Fully online degree program
  • Complete in 4-6 months
  • Designed for Medical Clinical Assistant graduates
  • Covers key skills like communications
  • Potential roles: Clinical/Administrative Assistant
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Middle Tennessee State University

Murfreesboro, TN - Public 4-Year - mtsu.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant for the Experienced CMAA

Online Learning - Visit Website

Middle Tennessee State University's online Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program is tailored for experienced professionals seeking NHA CCMA certification. This 380-hour, self-paced course covers advanced clinical skills, medical terminology, and patient care techniques, preparing graduates for a healthcare field with 16% projected job growth. At $2,295, it includes a certification exam voucher, 12-month access, and optional clinical experience, with no entrance exam required for this certification-level program.

  • 380 total course hours
  • Online self-paced format
  • $2,295 program cost
  • 12-month access period
  • NHA certification exam included
  • Optional clinical experience
  • CPR certification opportunity
  • High-demand healthcare career
#6

The University of Tennessee-Martin

Martin, TN - Public 4-Year - utm.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Tennessee-Martin's Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program offers comprehensive online training that prepares students for healthcare careers in just 12 months. This self-paced program requires 540 total course hours and covers both administrative and clinical skills, including patient interactions, medical record management, and clinical procedures. With a total cost of $2,795, it includes a voucher for the national CCMA certification exam and provides an optional unpaid clinical experience. No prerequisites are required beyond a high school diploma, making it accessible for career changers. The program highlights strong job prospects with average salaries of $43,464 and 16% market growth in medical assisting.

  • 540 total course hours
  • 12 months access
  • Self-paced online learning
  • CCMA exam voucher included
  • No prerequisites needed
  • Optional clinical experience
  • Average salary $43,464 annually
  • 16% job market growth
  • Open enrollment available
  • Comprehensive medical training
#7

Southern Adventist University

Collegedale, TN - Private 4-year - southern.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Clinical Medical Assistant

Online Learning - Visit Website

Southern Adventist University's Clinical Medical Assistant program offers a focused six-month online curriculum preparing students for CCMA certification. The $4,000 tuition covers all materials, exam fees, and expert video instruction. Students develop essential clinical skills including vital signs measurement, medical history documentation, and patient care techniques. This program requires only a high school diploma or GED with internet access, making it accessible for career changers. With healthcare roles projected to grow 18%, graduates are positioned for employment in diverse settings like hospitals and outpatient centers. No entrance exam is required for this certificate-level program.

  • 6-month online program
  • $4,000 total tuition
  • Payment plans available
  • 100% online training
  • CCMA certification included
  • No Washington state eligibility
  • Exam fees and materials included
  • Expert-led video training
  • National job growth outlook
  • High-demand healthcare role
#8

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga

Chattanooga, TN - Public 4-Year - utc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Clinical Medical Assistant

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga offers an 18-week hybrid Clinical Medical Assistant program that leads to CCMA certification. This accelerated pathway requires no prerequisites, making it ideal for career changers. Students learn patient history charting, EKG procedures, and other essential medical skills through a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on training. With small class sizes capped at 20 students, the program boasts a 100% certification pass rate. Total tuition is $3,245, and an optional clinical externship provides real-world experience in various healthcare settings, preparing graduates for roles with an average annual salary of $40,485.

  • 18-week hybrid program
  • No prerequisites required
  • $3,245 total tuition
  • CCMA certification included
  • Optional clinical externship
  • Small 20-student class size
  • Work in multiple healthcare settings
  • Prepare for PA/medical school
  • Learn diverse medical skills
#9

Austin Peay State University

Clarksville, TN - Public 4-Year - apsu.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Austin Peay State University's Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program delivers a 12-month online curriculum for flexible career preparation. This comprehensive training covers both clinical and administrative medical tasks, including patient care, medical terminology, HIPAA regulations, and practical procedures. With a total cost of $2,795, the program requires 540 course hours and offers self-paced learning with open enrollment and no prerequisites. Students receive a voucher for the national CCMA exam, and the program includes clinical experience opportunities. Graduates are well-positioned for the growing job market, which projects 16% growth through 2031.

  • 12-month online program
  • $2,795 total course cost
  • 540 total course hours
  • CCMA exam voucher included
  • Self-paced learning format
  • No prerequisites required
  • Open enrollment availability
  • Clinical experience opportunity
  • Comprehensive medical terminology
  • Preparation for national certification
#10

University of Memphis

Memphis, TN - Public 4-Year - memphis.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Medical Assisting Online Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Memphis offers a 6-month online Medical Assisting program designed for busy professionals seeking flexible healthcare training. This asynchronous program develops essential administrative and clinical skills through expert-led instruction from experienced healthcare faculty. With a total cost of $4,500 and payment plan options, it prepares students for the Certified Clinical Medical Assisting exam. Applicants must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma and complete an interview process. No entrance exam is required for this program, making it accessible for career changers and those balancing work commitments.

  • 6-month online program
  • Asynchronous course delivery
  • Experienced healthcare faculty
  • $4,500 total program cost
  • CCMA exam preparation
  • Payment plan available
  • Flexible learning schedule
  • Administrative and clinical skills
  • 18+ years age requirement
  • High school diploma needed
*Information derived from: IPEDS 2023 survey, conducted by NCES.

Getting a Medical Assistant Certification in Tennessee

In Tennessee, 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 Tennessee, 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 Tennessee, 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 Tennessee.

To stay updated with any changes or requirements specific to Tennessee, you can visit the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners website or contact the Tennessee Medical Association. These state organizations can provide information and resources related to the practice of medical assistants in Tennessee and any regulatory updates that may affect your career.

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

A good place to start job hunting for medical assistant positions in Tennessee is by contacting medical centers and hospitals directly. In many cases, the training program you enroll in will be a great resource for you in locating these jobs. A few locations that you may try contacting in the state are Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Baptist Memorial Hospital, and TriStar Centennial Medical Center.

What Is the Salary for a Medical Assistant in Tennessee?

According to Salary.com, the salary range for medical assistants in Tennessee is $30,000 to $41,000 per year. This may be on the low or high side of the spectrum, depending on what part of the state you'll be working in, your level of education, and any certification you may hold.

Get More information on medical assistant salaries in Tennessee.

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

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