The Best Medical Assistant Programs in Alabama of 2024-25
The demand for qualified medical assistants in Alabama is on the rise. Whether you are considering a certificate, an associate degree, or starting with no formal education, the importance of technical training from an accredited school cannot be overstated. This guide delves into the best medical assistant programs in Alabama, shedding light on admission requirements and anticipated graduate salaries.
The Top Alabama Medical Assistant Programs
Our ranking methodology employs a data-driven approach, emphasizing metrics crucial to students, such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Discover more about the top medical assistant programs in Alabama, featuring institutions like:
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- Central Alabama Community College
- Chattahoochee Valley Community College
- Fortis College-Dothan
- Fortis College-Montgomery
- George C Wallace Community College-Dothan
How Do Medical Assistant Programs Work?
Aspiring medical assistants enroll in Alabama’s medical assistant programs to acquire comprehensive theoretical knowledge and hands-on training in labs and simulations. Both online and on-campus programs, offering associate degrees and certificates, cover essential topics like medical terminology, clinical specialties, theory, law and ethics, and medical assistant pharmacology.
Becoming a Registered Nurse in Alabama + Requirements and Licensing
Practicum experiences enhance professional skills and deepen understanding of clinical procedures, fostering relationships with colleagues and superiors at healthcare sites. Certificate programs typically take 4-12 months (2-3 semesters) to complete, while associate degrees require 18-24 months (four semesters) of dedicated studies.
Explore Featured Online Medical Assistant Programs
To make an informed decision, explore start dates, credit transfer policies, financial aid availability, and more by reaching out to the universities below.
Navigating the Application Process for Medical Assistant Programs in Alabama
Embarking on a career as a medical assistant begins with completing an online application, with specific requirements varying across schools. Generally, applicants need a high school diploma or GED certificate to enter an Alabama medical assistant program.
Admission Requirements:
– Submit an online application along with supplemental materials, such as high school or previous college transcripts.
– Minimum GPA requirement of 2.0.
– Minimum ACT or SAT scores as specified by the school.
The importance of Medical Assistant Program Accreditation
Accreditation is a crucial factor when selecting a vocational school or community college for a medical assisting certificate or associate degree. Accredited schools adhere to higher standards for curriculum and educational outcomes, regularly reviewed by external accrediting bodies.
All the medical assistant programs mentioned in this guide hold accreditation, providing assurance to future employers that your education has adequately prepared you for the role. Accreditation also facilitates credit transfer if you decide to pursue a higher degree and is essential for qualifying for medical certifications.
For in-depth information on the best medical assistant programs and schools in Alabama, refer to USANursingPapers.com. Our rankings are based on publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), ensuring the relevance and accuracy of the data presented. Program-specific details may vary, and the data is current as of the publication date of this article.
#1 Top-Ranked Medical Assistant Programs in Alabama for 2024-25
Central Alabama Community College
Location: Alexander City, AL
Duration: 2 years
Program Type: Campus
Central Alabama Community College offers a comprehensive 66-credit associate degree in medical assisting technology (MAT). The curriculum encompasses general education courses in English composition, math, psychology, and public speaking, alongside specialized medical assisting courses covering administrative, clinical, and lab procedures, medical terminology, and pharmacology. The program concludes with a phlebotomy preceptorship.
CACC also awards specialty short-term certificates in administrative medical assistant, multi-skilled patient technician, and phlebotomy technology as students progress through the program. The admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED certificate with a minimum GPA of 2.0. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Tuition:
– $166 per credit for Alabama residents
– $291 per credit for out-of-state students
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 88% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $50,677 for associate graduates
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $3,990
– Out-of-state: $7,920
Retention Rate: 59%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,546
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 83%
Accreditation: Yes (SACSCOC)
#2 Top Medical Assistant Programs in Alabama for 2024-25
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
Location: Phenix City, AL
Duration: 2 years
Program Type: Campus
Chattahoochee Valley Community College’s medical assisting program prepares students for administrative and clinical duties, making them eligible to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam. The curriculum includes a 225-hour practicum at a local healthcare facility, covering medical assisting theory, laboratory procedures, CPR, and general education topics. Enrollees can apply for a short certificate in medical assisting: phlebotomy and CPT certification exam after completing the third semester and phlebotomy preceptorship.
Admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED certificate with a minimum GPA of 2.0, along with ACT or ACCUPLACER scores. The program is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Tuition:
– $164 per credit for Alabama and eligible Georgia residents
– $297 per credit for out-of-state students
Minimum Time Commitment: Five semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 88% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,860 for associate graduates
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $3,990
– Out-of-state: $7,980
Retention Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,399
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 77%
Accreditation: Yes (SACSCOC)
#3 Top-Rated Medical Assistant Programs in Alabama for 2024-25
Fortis College-Dothan
Location: Dothan, AL
Duration: 2 years
Program Type: Campus
Fortis College-Dothan’s medical assistant program focuses on training students for administrative responsibilities, direct patient support, and various supporting roles. The curriculum includes classroom and hands-on learning, along with an externship. The program offers job placement assistance to graduates in hospitals, physicians’ offices, and residential facilities. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED certificate to be eligible.
Tuition: $15,342 total
Minimum Time Commitment: Nine months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition: Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 59%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 165
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: Not provided
Accreditation: Yes (ABHES)
#4 Best Medical Assistant Programs in Alabama for 2024-25
Fortis College-Montgomery
Location: Montgomery, AL
Duration: 2 years
Program Type: Campus
Fortis College-Montgomery’s medical assistant program emphasizes collaboration with other medical professionals to deliver safe and compassionate patient care. The curriculum covers organizational and administrative tasks, adaptability to fast-paced working environments, and hands-on experiences. Graduates are prepared for medical assistant roles at hospitals like Jackson Hospital and Baptist Medical Centers.
Tuition: $15,108 total
Minimum Time Commitment: Nine months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $52,357 for associate graduates
Average Undergrad Tuition: Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 64%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 284
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: Not provided
Accreditation: Yes (ABHES)
#5 Top Medical Assistant Programs in Alabama for 2024-25
George C Wallace Community College-Dothan
Location: Dothan, AL
Duration: 2 years
Program Type: Campus
George C Wallace Community College-Dothan offers an associate of applied science in medical assisting. The 71-credit curriculum includes general education core requirements and medical assisting courses, along with a medical assistant practicum. Students can opt to earn their medical assisting degrees with phlebotomy short certificates.
Graduates qualify to apply for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) examination. Those with phlebotomy certificates are also eligible to sit for their Phlebotomy Technician (ASCP) and Registered Phlebotomy Technician (AMT) certification examinations.
Tuition:
– $162 per credit for Alabama residents
– $287 per credit for out-of-state students
Minimum Time Commitment: Five semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 95% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $47,762 for associate graduates
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $3,990
– Out-of-state: $7,980
Retention Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 3,681
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 51%
Accreditation: Yes (CAAHEP)
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama Medical Assistant Programs
How do I become a medical assistant in Alabama?
While Alabama employers may not require formal education, obtaining a medical assistant position is facilitated by showcasing administrative and medical assisting skills. However, certification from an accredited program is recommended for standing out to hiring managers.
How long does it take to become a medical assistant in Alabama?
Becoming a medical assistant in Alabama typically takes 1-2 years. The duration depends on whether you pursue a certificate (averaging one year) or an associate degree (taking two years with full-time study).
What is a medical assistant salary in Alabama?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual salary for medical assistants in Alabama is $31,390, or $14.38 per hour. Salary variations exist across sectors, with the highest wages in agencies and brokerages, merchant wholesalers, outpatient care centers, and insurance carriers.
Do medical assistants have to be certified in Alabama?
Certification is not mandatory for medical assistants in Alabama, as formal education is not a prerequisite for employment. However, certification enhances visibility to hiring managers. To become certified, graduating from a program accredited by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation is usually required. Common credentials include certified medical assistant, registered medical assistant, and certified clinical medical assistant certifications.
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