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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2025 Best Medical Assistant Programs in Tennessee

Looking for the best medical assistant programs in Tennessee? You're in the right place. At medicalassistantonline.org, we've done the homework to help you find top-notch training that fits your goals. Our rankings highlight programs that stand out for their quality, affordability, and student success. Whether you're starting your career or looking to advance, our list points you to the best options across the state. We believe in making your search easier by focusing on what matters most to you. Ready to see which programs made the cut? Check out our full rankings and see how we picked them https://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 a fast-track to entering the healthcare field, combining online learning with practical experience. Students complete 180 hours of clinical training, gaining skills in medical procedures, pharmacology, and professional communication. The program is CAAHEP accredited and prepares students for certification exams, offering a solid foundation for careers in medical offices and clinics without the need for an entrance exam.

  • 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

Focusing on phlebotomy, the Certificate in Medical Assisting with a Concentration in Phlebotomy Technician at South College offers specialized training in blood collection techniques and medical office tasks. This program includes a 180-hour practicum in a medical facility, blending online coursework with in-person training. It's designed for those looking to quickly enter the healthcare field, with preparation for national certification and the option to advance towards an associate degree, all without requiring an entrance exam.

  • 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 is a hybrid program that blends online coursework with on-campus training, offering a comprehensive education in both clinical and administrative medical assisting skills. With 180 hours of hands-on field training, students gain practical experience in medical settings. The program is nationally ranked #3 for associate-level medical assisting, highlighting its excellence in preparing students for successful healthcare careers. It emphasizes medical lab procedures, patient care, and professional communication, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a robust foundation in medical assisting.

  • 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

The Associate of Science in Medical Assisting with a Phlebotomy Technician Concentration at South College is designed for students aiming to specialize in phlebotomy within the medical assisting field. This program offers a mix of classroom instruction and 180 hours of clinical practicum, focusing on phlebotomy techniques alongside general medical assisting skills. It prepares graduates for immediate employment in various healthcare settings, with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on training and preparation for national certification.

  • 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

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 offers an online Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program tailored for experienced CMAA professionals aiming to enhance their clinical skills. This program, focusing on preparing students for the NHA CCMA certification, delves into advanced medical procedures, patient care, and healthcare technology. With a curriculum spanning 380 hours, it provides a flexible, self-paced learning environment over 12 months, including a voucher for the certification exam. Highlights include optional clinical experience, CPR certification, and entry into a healthcare sector expecting 16% job growth by 2031. At $2,295, it's a cost-effective pathway to advancing in a high-demand career without the need for entrance exams.

  • 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
#3

Southern Adventist University

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

Certificate/Diploma - Clinical Medical Assistant

Online Learning - Visit Website

Southern Adventist University offers a streamlined Clinical Medical Assistant program designed for those eager to enter the healthcare field quickly. This six-month online course equips students with essential skills such as taking vital signs, managing patient records, and understanding medical procedures, all for a competitive tuition of $4,000, which covers certification exam fees and materials. Ideal for individuals seeking flexibility, the program is entirely online, requiring only a high school diploma or GED to enroll. Graduates are prepared to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam, positioning them for immediate employment in a sector expected to grow significantly. Southern Adventist University's program stands out for its affordability, comprehensive curriculum, and the inclusion of certification costs, making it an excellent choice for aspiring medical assistants.

  • 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
#4

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 offers a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program online, designed for individuals aiming to quickly enter the healthcare sector. This 12-month program, priced at $2,795, equips students with both administrative and clinical skills essential for medical assisting, such as managing patient records and performing clinical procedures. Notably, the program includes a voucher for the national certification exam and provides an optional unpaid clinical experience. With no prerequisites other than a high school diploma, it's an accessible option for aspiring medical assistants. The program boasts 540 course hours, self-paced online learning, and highlights a promising job market with a 16% growth rate and an average salary of $43,464 annually.

  • 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
#5

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 a hybrid Clinical Medical Assistant program designed for those eager to enter the healthcare field swiftly. This 18-week program stands out for its blend of online coursework and in-person training, leading to a CCMA certification without any prerequisites. Students benefit from small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention, and a curriculum that covers essential skills such as EKGs and patient history documentation. With a 100% certification pass rate and an affordable tuition of $3,245, this program is a practical choice for aspiring medical assistants. An optional clinical externship further enhances hands-on experience, preparing graduates for diverse healthcare environments.

  • 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
#6

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 comprehensive Medical Assisting Online Program tailored for individuals seeking a flexible path into the healthcare field. This 6-month program, delivered asynchronously, allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. It covers both administrative and clinical skills, preparing graduates for the Certified Clinical Medical Assisting (CCMA) exam. With a total cost of $4,500 and payment plans available, the program is accessible to a wide range of students. Admission requires a high school diploma, being at least 18 years old, and completing an interview. The program stands out for its experienced healthcare faculty and focus on practical skills for immediate employment in medical settings.

  • 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
#7

East Tennessee State University

Johnson City, TN - Public 4-Year - etsu.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Clinical Medical Assistant Certification Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

East Tennessee State University's Clinical Medical Assistant Certification Program is designed for those aiming to thrive in clinical healthcare settings. This campus-based program equips students with the necessary skills to assist physicians, manage patient care, and perform laboratory tests, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application. Unique for its affordability at a $900 total program fee, including textbooks, it offers a convenient Friday afternoon schedule tailored for working professionals. Recognized as military-friendly, this program stands out for its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare training without the need for entrance exams, making it an excellent choice for aspiring medical assistants in Tennessee.

  • Campus-based certification program
  • $900 total program fee
  • Textbook included in registration
  • Meets Friday afternoons
  • Healthcare professional training
#8

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 stands out for its comprehensive approach to training, offering an Associate of Applied Science degree in 63 credit hours. Accredited by CAAHEP, the program boasts a 78.57% five-year job placement average, highlighting its effectiveness. Students gain practical experience through an externship and learn critical skills like medical terminology and electronic health records management. With no concentration specified, the program broadly prepares students for various roles in healthcare, supported by a curriculum designed for immediate employment in a sector projected to grow by 18%.

  • 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 offers a robust Medical Assisting program that equips students with both administrative and clinical skills essential for the healthcare industry. With options to pursue an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree or a certificate, the program caters to diverse educational needs. Accredited by CAAHEP, it ensures high-quality education with a 100% student retention rate in 2022. The curriculum includes 63 credit hours for the A.A.S. and 39 for the certificate, featuring hands-on training and an externship. Graduates are well-prepared for certification exams and benefit from the program's strong job placement rates in a field expecting 18% growth.

  • 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 ˅
#9

Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Jackson

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

Certificate/Diploma - Patient Care Technology/Medical Assisting

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Jackson offers a focused Patient Care Technology/Medical Assisting program designed to equip students with the necessary skills for a variety of healthcare roles in just one year. This intensive 12-month, full-time program covers critical areas such as nurse aid training, anatomy, medical terminology, electrocardiogram technology, phlebotomy, and medical assistance, totaling 1,296 clock hours. Graduates are prepared for immediate employment, with the opportunity to pursue multiple healthcare certifications. The program stands out for its affordability, with tuition at $4,335 and additional supplies costing $1,752.53, making it a cost-effective option for those entering the healthcare field. A high school diploma and passing the HESI entrance exam are prerequisites for enrollment.

  • 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
#10

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 is a standout choice for those aiming to enter the healthcare field efficiently. This 12-month online program, priced at $2,795, is designed to equip students with both clinical and administrative skills essential for a medical assistant role. Covering 540 hours, the curriculum delves into medical terminology, patient care, and HIPAA regulations, among other critical areas. A significant advantage is the inclusion of a CCMA exam voucher, preparing students for national certification. With no prerequisites and open enrollment, it's accessible to all aspiring medical assistants, offering a flexible, self-paced learning environment. The program's focus on practical clinical procedures and the opportunity for clinical experience ensure graduates are job-ready in a field expecting 16% growth by 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
*Institutional characteristics data extracted from IPEDS 2023, 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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