Online Medical Assistant Programs in Massachusetts: Top Schools

In Focus: Online Medical Assistant Program in Massachusetts

We’ve spotlighted below three schools offering online medical assistant programs in Massachusetts to give you a better idea of what you can expect to encounter in the MA program you ultimately choose. As you’ll see, each program comes with its own requirements and benefits for particular types of students.

If your goal is to find the quickest path to starting your MA career, for example, then a 100% online professional certification course is likely your best bet.

If you’re interested in pursuing a more competitive MA job or expanding your career opportunities, then you may want to consider a more extensive medical assistant certificate program that includes some in-person components, like campus-attended classes and a hands-on internship or externship.

FAQs for Aspiring Medical Assistants in Massachusetts

As you continue your journey toward finding the right online medical assistant program in Massachusetts, you’re bound to have questions. From curriculum details and cost to networking and prerequisites, the following section answers some of our readers’ most commonly-asked questions.

How can I network during my program? And does it matter?

Developing and growing your professional network –- both during and after your MA training –- is crucial if you want to expand your career options.

As a student at one of the best online medical assistant programs in Massachusetts, you’ll have multiple ways to network. These include online class discussions and study groups, as well as virtual meetups with fellow students, instructors, and alumni.

Some schools (like Northern Essex Community College) also require in-person externships that provide the chance to rapidly expand your professional network. Additionally, you can take advantage of networking opportunities that come with participation in professional organizations like the Massachusetts State Society of Medical Assistants.

Is it difficult to be accepted into a Massachusetts online medical assistant program?

The admissions requirements and processes for top online medical assistant programs in Massachusetts vary from school to school. Some schools feature relatively open admissions policies, while others (like MassBay Community College) are a bit more selective and require admission into both the school and the program itself.

As a result, you’ll want to carefully review admissions requirements on program websites and/or reach out to the admissions offices at each prospective school to ensure you meet all requirements.

Generally speaking, though, you’ll likely need a high school diploma or equivalent (like a GED) as well as proof of required immunizations. You’ll also have to pass a criminal background check in order to take part in any in-person clinical experiences.

What funding is available for online medical assistant students in Massachusetts?

As a college student, you’re acutely aware that attending an online medical assistant program in Massachusetts means investing in your future. But for many prospective MA students, coming up with the money to pay for their education can be difficult.

Thankfully, many of the best medical assistant programs in the state are offered through highly affordable (sometimes free) public community colleges. Additionally, qualifying students attending an accredited program (like those mentioned in this guide) can access a wide range of financial aid options that include loans, scholarships and grants, and work-study opportunities.

To find out about potential funding help for your MA education, contact the financial aid offices at the schools you’re considering.

What is the average cost of an online medical assistant program in Massachusetts?

The cost of your online medical assistant program in Massachusetts will inevitably depend on the particular school and program you attend.

But if you’re a Massachusetts resident with a high school diploma or equivalent, and meet other eligibility requirements, you may be able to attend community college for free. Through the state’s MassReconnect and MassEducate programs, qualifying students can have their community college tuition and fees paid for entirely plus receive a book and supply allowance of up to $1,200.

If not eligible for free community college, you can expect to encounter per-credit costs starting in the low- to mid-$200’s for Massachusetts residents, a bit more for New England Regional residents, and around $450 to $600 per-credit for out-of-state residents.

What subjects do medical assistant programs in Massachusetts cover?

Curriculum requirements vary somewhat from program to program. But students in most online MA programs in Massachusetts can expect a course of study that combines online and campus-based medical and administrative classes with in-person clinical externships typically attended at program-affiliated medical facilities in the school’s local area.

General topics covered include:

• Medical office administration
• Medical assisting
• Clinical laboratory procedures
• Medical terminology

Certifications and Advanced Training in Massachusetts

Neither a state license nor national certification is needed to work as a medical assistant in Massachusetts (or most other states, for that matter).

However, obtaining national-level professional certification can prove to be a valuable credential on your resume. In fact, many of the top employers of medical assistants in the state either prefer or require job applicants to possess national medical assistant certification.

Fortunately, the best online medical assistant programs in Massachusetts prepare their graduates to sit for the exams for one or more reputable medical assistant certifications.

Common national certifications for MAs in the U.S. include:

• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
• Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
• Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant (NRCMA)
• Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)

Continuing education is also not a state requirement for medical assistants in Massachusetts. However, you will need to meet certain renewal requirements to keep your national MA certification active. Renewal typically requires earning a given number of continuing education (CE) credits each renewal period (commonly every one to two years) and paying a renewal fee.

Medical Assistant Salary and Job Prospects in Massachusetts

Best Online Medical Assistant Programs in Massachusetts