FAQ About Medical Assistant Training
We’ve received tons of questions regarding medical assistant training programs. After reading all of your questions, we’ve formulated a list of the most commonly asked questions, so you can find the information you need easily.
1. How much is tuition at a medical assistant training school?
You can expect to pay at least 1,500 for a one-year program at a medical assistant training school, and about $2,500 at a college. If you enroll in a two-year medical assistant program, you can expect to pay between $5,000 and $10,000.
2. How do I apply for a school?
Our database gives you the option to select a school and begin filling out all the necessary paperwork.
3. What do I need prior to enrollment?
You must have your high school diploma or a GED.
4. What items will I need for class?
Generally, you’ll need your textbooks, scrubs, a stethoscope and a blood pressure cuff (sphygmomanometer). The school usually provides all of these items and the price is included along with your tuition. However, you may have to supply your own scrubs and equipment depending on the school.
5. After I attend school, how much should I expect to earn?
How much a medical assistant makes is dependent upon his or her experience and location, but typically an MA earns between $20,000 and $30,000 per year. An entry-level position in PA might only pay $27,050 annually, while an MA with experience has the potential to earn over $60,000 in the state of California.
6. How do I specialize in a certain area?
Your specialty is dependent upon where you’re hired. For instance, if you apply to a gynecologist office, you will receive the training you need for the particular branch of medicine through the facility. However, there are variations on the programs.
7. How do I compare programs?
By browsing our website, you can find the information you need to compare schools.
8. Are there any schools that allow me to take the classes online?
Yes, there are accredited schools who offer distance-learning programs to become an MA.
9. If I attend an online program, will I have to complete any laboratory work?
Yes, a majority of online MA training programs have labs that you complete.
10. Do the online programs require any on-site training?
No, they don’t require any on-site training. The entire program is completed via your computer.
11. Do online classes have a set schedule?
This depends on the school itself. Sometimes, you will be given all the coursework and you can complete it at your leisure, while others require you to participate so many times per week and follow a strict syllabus. You may even have the chance to attend classes via your computer.
12. Are there any schools that offer internships?
Yes, certain schools provide students with internship opportunities, where they can learn in an actual medical facility from professionals.
13. Do you recommend completing an internship?
Yes, we do recommend completing an internship if possible. This boosts your resume and gives you the opportunity to learn exactly what the job entails. An internship may also be used as a reference while you’re in search of a job.
14. What should I look for in a medical assistant training program?
You want to look for a combination of classroom learning, laboratory work and hands-on experience. The hands-on experience needs to be a majority of the program.
15. How do I tell if a school is accredited?
When you click on a school in our listings, the website will pop up. The school will denote somewhere on its web page whether it is accredited. If you’re still unsure about the school, check out the U.S. Department of Education’s database.
16. I have a busy schedule and can’t attend daytime courses, are there any options for me?
Yes, many medical assistant training programs offer both daytime and nighttime courses. Some even supply students with the option to attend weekend classes.
17. Does financial aid cover any of the expenses?
Yes, but your eligibility for financial aid depends on the income of you or your family (for students who live with their parents). It also is determined by factors, such as whether you have children.
18. I’ve earned credits in the past, are these able to be used toward earning my certificate or degree as an MA?
It solely is based upon the school you attended and where you’re going to enroll. The types of courses taken also play a role.
19. How do I know if this type of work is for me?
You could volunteer at a hospital or nursing home to see if you enjoy the medical field. If this is not an option, ask yourself whether you like working with people. If you’re not a fan of hands-on, one-on-one time with people, this probably isn’t a good fit for you. Additionally, if you’re squeamish about blood, you’re looking into the wrong profession.
20. Do any schools offer work placement programs?
Yes, some schools do offer work placement programs, especially if you agree to work for them. You may have the option to use their services to help you find a job as well, but that strictly depends on the school.