Online Medical Assistant Programs in Kentucky: Choosing a School
Medical assistants (MAs) play an important role in the Kentucky healthcare system. It’s easy to become a medical assistant in Kentucky, thanks to the abundance of online medical assistant programs. The hard part is determining which program is right for you, but EduMed will help you do that. We’ll highlight three specific programs, plus discuss financial aid opportunities and certification requirements in Kentucky.
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Inside Online Medical Assistant Programs in Kentucky
Deciding to pursue a career as a certified medical assistant (CMA) is somewhat easy. Why wouldn’t you want a career with diverse growth opportunities, job stability, a decent income, and the opportunity to help others? But, choosing the right medical assistant program to get started is a bit more difficult. How do you know which online medical assistant program in Kentucky is right for you?
Your options for online medical assistant programs in Kentucky are plentiful. Maybe you want a program that offers many online components. Or maybe you want a hybrid program that lets you socialize with peers and complete coursework at your own pace. We’ll spotlight three high-quality programs that each offer something different.
Eastern Kentucky University
Eastern Kentucky University, located in In Richmond, offers a fully online Clinical Medical Assistant training program that prepares you to take the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. You can still benefit from this program if you don’t live Richmond – a smaller city with convenient access to nearby Lexington’s amenities – since it’s online. You don’t need any prerequisites to enroll in the program, and open enrollment allows you to start at any time.
The program teaches a variety of skills necessary for both the clinical and clerical responsibilities that come with most medical assistant roles. When you’re ready to take the CCMA exam, the course provides you with a voucher to cover the cost.
Duration: 12 months
Mode: Online
Cost: $2,795
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Working computer
Curriculum:
- Medical Terminology
- Certified Medical Assistant Skills
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Western Kentucky University
Western Kentucky University, located in Bowling Green, offers an online certification course for potential Clinical Medical Assistants. This course stands out because you can complete it in four to six months. This online program requires only a high school diploma or equivalent to apply.
When you finish the program, you’ll receive a certificate of completion and become eligible to take the CCMA exam. You’ll also be eligible for an optional volunteer clinical externship that will give you hands-on experience before you begin to apply for jobs. This externship must be completed in-person with a nearby community partner.
Duration: Four to six months
Mode: Online (without externship) or hybrid (with externship)
Cost: $3,950
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
Curriculum:
- Online coursework
- In-person clinical externship (optional)
Sullivan University
Many higher education institutions offer only a certificate or diploma program for medical assistants. But, Sullivan University offers two options: an accelerated Medical Assistant Diploma program and an Associate of Science (AS) in Medical Assisting program. The diploma program is hybrid, and online instruction is complemented by boot camps in three cities: Lexington, Louisa, and Louisville.
The university’s associate degree program is ideal if you want to eventually take a leadership or management position within a physician’s office. You can also pursue a more advanced degree after completion of the AS, like a bachelor’s degree in a medical specialty. Both programs include 200 hours of clinical work for hands-on experience in an authentic medical setting.
Duration: 15 months (diploma program) or 24 months (associate degree program)
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $17,820 (total tuition for diploma) or $29,700 (total tuition for associate degree)
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
Curriculum:
- Medical Terminology
- Medical Laboratory Procedures
- Medical Software Applications
- Medical Ethics
- Medical Laboratory Procedures II
- Medical Laboratory Procedures III
- Pharmacology
- Medical Office Procedures
- Clinical Assisting Externship
- Speed Development
- Keyboarding Essentials
- Anatomy and Physiology I
- Anatomy and Physiology II
FAQs for Online Medical Assistant Students in Kentucky
The spotlights above are comprehensive, but you probably still have questions about becoming a medical assistant in Kentucky. Luckily, we’ve got answers. Continue reading to learn what online coursework looks like, whether Kentucky has medical assistant licensure requirements, and other info that can help on your academic journey.
How do I know if a medical assistant program is accredited?
Many secondary education providers proudly state their accreditation status somewhere on their website. You can verify whether a program is accredited by searching the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs, which offers information provided by recognized accrediting agencies.
Verifying that a certain medical assistant program is accredited is important; if it’s not, you might not be able to take certain exams like those offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or American Medical Technologists.
How do I become a certified clinical medical assistant in Kentucky?
Kentucky does not have specific licensing or certification requirements for medical assistants. The Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure does not require medical assistants to show proof of certification, registration, or a license. But, obtaining a certificate and passing the associated exam is a requirement for some employers.
Generally, you first need to apply for and attend an online medical assistant program in Kentucky. After graduating, you’ll take an exam to validate your skills and become a Certified Medical Assistant in one of the available specialties. Though it’s not a requirement, getting certified can make your application stand out and allow you to qualify for better job opportunities. Certification can also help you stand out if you decide to apply for LPN bridge programs or other continuing education degrees.
What is the least expensive medical assistant program in KY?
The cost of attending an online medical assistant program in Kentucky differs from school to school. However, the Kentucky Community & Technical College System claims it has the lowest tuition in Kentucky. It offers Medical Assisting diplomas and associate degrees at 10 locations throughout the state.
Many online medical assistant programs in Kentucky offer relatively affordable tuition. As noted above, tuition at Eastern Kentucky University costs under $3,000. To lower costs further, you can apply for financial aid, including student loans, grants, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement.
Can I complete a medical assistant program online?
It is possible to complete a medical assistant program entirely online. Several online medical assistant programs in Kentucky offer fully online options, while others provide hybrid options that combine online coursework with limited, in-person training. Some programs offer an opportunity to complete clinical hours, which must be completed in person in a clinical setting.
Clinical hours provide a hands-on look at what you’ll do after you graduate. Completing them can be a useful way to network with potential employers and determine what you do (and don’t) want to do after graduation. However, clinical hours are not requirements for all programs. You might be able to find an employer that allows you to learn certain skills through on-the-job training.
How long does it take to become a medical assistant in Kentucky?
Medical assistant programs in Kentucky vary in length. Some take two years to complete and culminate in an associate degree and a more robust set of medical assisting skills. Other programs result in a certificate, not an associate degree. These programs are typically shorter; some accelerated options take only six weeks to complete, though this is rare. Shorter programs let you enter the workforce faster and might be a better option for students who are unsure what they want to do in the healthcare field. However, shorter programs will likely lead to limited job opportunities after you graduate.
Certifications and Continuing Education in Kentucky
The Kentucky state government does not license medical assistants or define their scope of work. Most medical assistants in the state complete either clinical or clerical work. On the clerical side, medical assistants often keep a physician’s office up and running. They manage tasks like scheduling appointments, registering patients for appointments, billing, and working with insurance providers to process claims.
On the clinical side, medical assistants might ask patients about their medical history and symptoms, take vital signs, and otherwise prepare them to meet with a physician. During the appointment, medical assistants can further assist the physician as needed by performing basic laboratory tests, drawing blood, sterilizing medical equipment, and completing other similar tasks.
While continuing education is not a requirement for medical assistants, it can help you stay you competitive when you apply for new roles. Continuing education can also help you stay up-to-date on changes in the healthcare industry. The Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure offers a list of resources for continuing medical education, but the resources are not specifically for medical assistants.
Salary and Career Outlook for Medical Assistants in Kentucky
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $35,020 | $44,200 | $57,830 |
| Kentucky | $30,220 | $38,750 | $47,100 |
| Bowling Green, KY | $31,220 | $37,940 | $44,400 |
| Elizabethtown, KY | $31,940 | $37,920 | $45,190 |
| Lexington-Fayette, KY | $34,600 | $39,820 | $47,540 |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN | $36,130 | $40,780 | $47,780 |
| Owensboro, KY | $29,610 | $36,890 | $45,150 |
| Paducah, KY-IL | $33,730 | $38,040 | $45,700 |
Source: Medical Assistants, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 764,400 | 870,200 | 105,800 | 13.8% | 114,600 |
| Kentucky | 13,090 | 14,920 | 1,830 | 14.0% | 1,970 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Best Online Medical Assistant Programs in Kentucky
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,686 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Henderson Community College
- Henderson Community College's Medical Assisting program offers the lowest tuition in Kentucky combined with accessible financial aid and application guidance, making it financially attractive for students.
- The program features a small class size with dedicated faculty that provide hands-on experiential learning, supporting student success and skill mastery vital for employment.
- Students complete an unpaid clinical externship that offers real-world healthcare experience, enhancing readiness for immediate workforce integration as certified medical assistants.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,686 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Hazard Community and Technical College
Hazard, KYProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,722 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Hazard Community and Technical College
- The Medical Assisting AAS program at KCTCS requires maintaining a minimum grade of "C" in courses and a 2.0 GPA, ensuring academic rigor and professional readiness.
- Graduates are prepared to take the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam through the American Medical Technologists, enabling certification and recognized professional credentialing.
- The program offers flexible learning options, including hybrid classes with both on-campus day and evening lab schedules, accommodating diverse student needs and schedules.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,722 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Bluegrass Community and Technical College
Lexington, KYProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,068 Avg. Aid Amount
- 29% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Bluegrass Community and Technical College
- The Medical Assisting program at Bluegrass Community and Technical College features a high level of employer partnership evidenced by an active Advisory Board and strong employer feedback, enhancing job placement opportunities.
- The program emphasizes competency-based, work-focused training with ample practicum/externship experiences that prepare students for real-world clinical and administrative tasks.
- Students have access to specialized certification pathways such as Medical Office Clinical Assistant and Medical Office Insurance Billing and Coding Certificates, allowing tailored career focus.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,068 Avg. Aid Amount
- 29% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Owensboro Community and Technical College
Owensboro, KYProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,045 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Owensboro Community and Technical College
- The Owensboro Medical Assisting program offers accelerated clinical practicums and externships, enabling students to quickly gain hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.
- The program features strong employer partnerships that facilitate high clinical placement rates, increasing students’ chances for employment after graduation.
- Students may receive credit for prior CPR certification, potentially reducing program length and tuition costs.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,045 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Gateway Community and Technical College
Florence, KYProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,394 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Gateway Community and Technical College
- The Medical Assistant program includes an exam voucher covering the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification, reducing certification costs for students.
- Students have the opportunity to become CPR certified and engage in an unpaid clinical experience to gain practical, hands-on skills valued by employers.
- Affiliated partnerships enhance the likelihood of clinical placement, supporting students in meeting clinical requirements necessary for certification eligibility.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,394 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College
Cumberland, KYProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,624 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College
- The Medical Assistant program offers a flexible hybrid format with online lectures and on-campus labs one to two nights per week, accommodating working students and those advancing education.
- Valuable partnerships with Sanford Health and Avera Health provide students eligibility for tuition assistance, scholarships, and direct job placement opportunities after graduation.
- The program’s close industry connections significantly reduce financial barriers while fostering direct employment pathways with regional healthcare employers.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,624 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Ashland Community and Technical College
Ashland, KYProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,935 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Ashland Community and Technical College
- The Medical Assistant program at Ashland KCTCS offers hybrid 8-week courses, allowing flexible scheduling that accommodates working students.
- Students receive eligibility to sit for the National Certification Medical Assisting Exam after completing a certificate credential, enhancing immediate job market readiness.
- The program includes a practical externship course with coordinator consent, providing hands-on clinical experience and strong employer connections.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,935 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,633 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Somerset Community College
- The Medical Assisting program at Somerset Community College offers the lowest tuition in Kentucky combined with financial aid and personalized application guidance, making it affordable for students.
- The program prepares graduates to sit for the Registered Medical Assistant certification exam through American Medical Technologists, enhancing employment prospects.
- Students receive hands-on clinical experience with employer partnerships in physician offices and outpatient clinics, improving real-world readiness and job placement potential.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,633 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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