Online Medical Assistant Programs: Comparing Schools in Michigan
Your online medical assistant program can set the tone for your entire career. Keep reading for an inside look at medical assistant programs in Michigan including examples of top schools. We’ll cover the admissions process, typical curriculum, and cost for these schools. Later on, we’ll answer some commonly asked questions, review certification and continuing education options, and take a look at potential earnings and career growth. Ready to take the next steps in your medical assistant journey? Let’s get started.
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A Comprehensive Breakdown of Online Medical Assistant Programs in Michigan
Before you can embark on a new career in medical assisting, you must complete a medical assistant program that prepares you with the knowledge and skills you need to assist patients and other practitioners. You may be wondering what online medical assistant programs are available to you in Michigan and how to distinguish between them. It’s important to take the time to explore your options and know what you’re looking for. That’s where we come in. Keep reading to learn more about the online medical assistant programs in Michigan that made it onto our list — including their admission requirements, costs, and timelines — and what you can expect after graduating. Importantly, all of these programs offer online courses, allowing you to learn at your own pace and on a schedule that’s convenient.
Medical Assistant Certificate Program – Siena Heights University
Siena Heights University offers a Medical Assistant certificate program designed to train individuals interested in healthcare, recent high school graduates, and current healthcare workers looking to advance their careers. The program includes coursework in medical terminology, patient care, and medical office procedures. Students gain hands-on experience through internships and are prepared for certification exams. The program aims to equip graduates with the skills needed for immediate employment in various healthcare environments.
Duration: 552 hours
Mode: 100% online
Cost: $4,000
Admissions Requirements: Complete an application, no prerequisites required
Curriculum: This online Medical Assistant Certificate Program covers topics such as Human Anatomy and Medical Terminology, Professionalism in Allied Health, and Clinical Medical Assisting. The classes are interactive and include a number of simulations and assessments.
Certificate in Medical Assisting – Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids Community College’s Medical Assistant certificate program curriculum covers both administrative and clinical skills, with the goal of preparing students for positions in doctor’s offices, hospitals, and clinics. The program is presented in hybrid form with a 50-50 mix of online coursework and in-person learning. In addition to lectures, group work, and simulations, the program also includes an externship. At the completion of the program, students will be eligible to sit for the Registered Medical Assistant national exam.
Duration: 772 hours (22 weeks)
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $8,675
Admissions Requirements: Must be 18 years or older and complete an application.
Curriculum: Courses include Billing and Coding, Telephone Triage Skills, Phlebotomy, Obtaining Vital Signs and Administering Injections, and Electrocardiography and CLIA Waived Testing. The course fee also covers CPR and First Aid certification as well as the RMA National Certification exam.
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Central Michigan University Certified Clinical Medical Assistant Program
This completely online medical assistant program from Central Michigan University is an affordable and flexible option that prepares students to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. The curriculum is divided between medical terminology and clinical setting skills, such as measuring vital signs and maintaining equipment.
Duration: 540 hours (12 months)
Mode: 100% online
Cost: $2,795
Admissions Requirements: There are no prerequisites required besides the application, but students must have a high school diploma or equivalent to sit for the national exam.
Curriculum: In this online program, students study medical terminology, medical law and ethics, HIPAA rules, scheduling systems, administrative duties, and clinical duties such as vital sign measurement.
Explore Common Questions from Michigan Medical Assistant Students
You may still have questions about online medical assistant programs in Michigan, and that’s okay. It is normal to want to know as much as possible about the opportunities available to you before selecting an online medical assistant program that best suits your needs. That’s why we’ve collected and answered some of the most frequently asked questions regarding medical assistant programs offered online in Michigan.
Is it difficult to be accepted to Michigan online medical assistant programs and are there any prerequisites?
No, being accepted into a Michigan-based online medical assistant program is not usually considered difficult by applicants. Please note that programs that prepare students to sit for Certified Medical Assistant exams typically require a high school diploma or GED equivalent as a condition of admission.
Most Michigan-based online medical assistant programs have few, if any, prerequisites. While the majority of programs, including the one at Grand Rapids Community College, require applicants to be 18 or older at the start of the program, no prior healthcare experience is necessary. For that reason, becoming a medical assistant is a great option for individuals interested in entering the healthcare industry.
How can I network during my program, and does it matter?
Yes, and yes. Networking before, during, and after completing your medical assistant program is a wise decision that can help jumpstart and accelerate your career. The Michigan Society of Medical Assistants is a professional organization with a bevy of resources and connections that can help you at any point in your career.
While in school, you can work to develop relationships with your instructors and peers by actively participating in class discussions and/or creating study groups. You may also consider seeking out a mentor, whether it’s someone local or an individual you can connect with digitally. Many schools have a career resources that may be able to help you find a mentor.
What funding is available for online medical assistant students in Michigan?
In Michigan, qualified candidates are eligible to receive training for growing, in-demand career fields at little to no cost to them. The Michigan Works Service Center helps prospective students learn more about medical assisting programs, training grants, and other services you may qualify for. Online medical assistants at accredited schools are also eligible for financial aid and school-administered scholarships.
There are also several scholarships geared toward medical assistant students. A few options to consider are the Alice Newell Joslyn Medical Scholarship and the Maxine Williams Scholarship. Some schools, such as Grand Rapids Community College, have their own institutional scholarship options, so be sure to check in with the financial aid office.
What is the average cost of an online medical assistant program in Michigan?
The average cost of a Michigan-based online medical assistant program depends on the length and type of degree you’re pursuing. There are accelerated online MA programs and evening online programs that are best fit for busy students trying to balance their education with work and family obligations. For example, Henry Ford College offers a 15-month certificate program for $3,987 but for those seeking an associate degree in medical assisting, the cost can easily exceed $18,000. The program at Siena Heights University costs $4,000, which seems to be about the average. The tuition at Grand Rapids Community College comes in at $8,675, but it includes a number of expenses including:
- Criminal Background Check fee
- Computer Competency Assessment
- RMA National Certification Exam fee
- American Heart Association BLS CPR and Heartsaver First Aid
- Course textbooks
- Uniform & Stethoscope
- Learning lab resources
- Facilities Maintenance Fee
As you can see, tuition varies, so be sure to look into what exactly is covered.
What subjects do medical assistant programs in Michigan cover?
Because medical assistants work in both medical and administrative roles, students can expect courses to cover basic concepts of each. Students will learn about medical terminology, patient care basics, anatomy and physiology, and infection control principles, as well as insurance billing and coding, communication, and clerical duties.
Depending on the program, students may also become certified in CPR and participate in a hands-on clinical experience. For many programs, the goal is to prepare students to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam.
The Certification Process for Louisiana Medical Assistants
At present, the State of Louisiana only requires that you pass the CMA exam. The state does not require medical assistants to complete any form of continuing education in order to retain certification. However, additional certifications are required for medical assistants who want to expand their roles and take on more responsibilities working with medical technology. These certifications include a radiologic technology license for those interested in working with limited-scope radiology, and licensure for phlebotomists and other clinical laboratory personnel. These licenses are necessary to work with medical laboratory technology in Louisiana.
For those hoping to take on an administrative leadership role within a medical assistant career, there is no specific licensure or continuing education required. However, duration of work experience, and whether the medical assistant holds an associate degree as opposed to a diploma, may be relevant when a medical assistant is applying for leadership roles.
The Job Market and Pay for Medical Assistants in Louisiana
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $35,020 | $44,200 | $57,830 |
| Michigan | $35,090 | $38,840 | $47,280 |
| Ann Arbor, MI | $37,810 | $39,750 | $48,440 |
| Battle Creek, MI | $37,180 | $38,830 | $47,070 |
| Bay City, MI | $30,260 | $36,700 | $47,120 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | $35,540 | $38,370 | $47,240 |
| Flint, MI | $33,420 | $36,870 | $45,500 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood, MI | $35,440 | $41,550 | $47,590 |
| Jackson, MI | $34,420 | $37,020 | $45,280 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage, MI | $35,220 | $42,250 | $51,750 |
| Lansing-East Lansing, MI | $32,640 | $37,680 | $47,640 |
| Midland, MI | $35,810 | $38,240 | $40,830 |
| Monroe, MI | $31,930 | $37,290 | $49,030 |
| Muskegon-Norton Shores, MI | $33,650 | $39,050 | $46,240 |
| Niles, MI | $35,440 | $39,940 | $47,520 |
| Saginaw, MI | $33,990 | $40,160 | $44,540 |
| Traverse City, MI | $36,160 | $40,500 | $46,530 |
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 ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 24,670 | 27,830 | 3,160 | 12.80% | 3,660 |
| 1 – United States | 764,400 | 870,200 | 105,800 | 13.80% | 114,600 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Best Online Medical Assistant Programs in Michigan
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $20,957 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Siena Heights University
- Siena Heights University’s Medical Assistant program offers affordable tuition with flexible payment options, making it accessible for diverse learners seeking healthcare careers.
- The program includes clinical practicums, ensuring hands-on experience to enhance job readiness and practical skills.
- Students benefit from a 100% online format with self-paced learning, allowing completion typically within 3 to 6 months, ideal for busy individuals.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $20,957 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $12,690 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Davenport University
- Davenport’s Medical Assisting program includes a 180-hour practicum at outpatient medical facilities, providing essential hands-on training for real-world job readiness.
- The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), ensuring high educational standards and employer recognition.
- Students learn from faculty who are experts committed to training for in-demand medical assistant jobs, enhancing the quality and relevance of instruction.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $12,690 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,677 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected West Shore Community College
- The Medical Assistant program is offered collaboratively through the Michigan Workforce Training and Education Collaborative (MWTEC) EPiC Consortium, enabling streamlined tuition and fees governed by MWTEC rates, which can potentially reduce costs for students.
- Students who successfully complete the first three semesters become eligible to sit for the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) certification exam, providing a recognized credential early in the program.
- Cognitive coursework is completed online through Southwestern Michigan College, while lab and clinical experiences occur at local facilities, offering a flexible hybrid learning model with hands-on training in real clinical settings.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,677 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,372 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southwestern Michigan College
- Southwestern Michigan College’s Medical Assisting program offers nine online courses through a collaborative EPIC/MWTEC program, providing flexible, affordable tuition at a competitive per credit hour rate distinct from standard college tuition.
- The program includes comprehensive hands-on clinical training to ensure students graduate with practical skills and confidence for immediate employment in healthcare settings.
- Students benefit from coursework delivered through a reputable online Canvas platform combined with in-person prerequisite courses at their degree-granting institutions, enhancing accessibility and transferability within Michigan’s workforce education collaboration.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,372 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $5,451 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Northern Michigan University
- The Medical Assistant program at Northcentral Michigan College includes a voucher for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam, helping students directly qualify for national certification upon completion.
- Students can gain comprehensive training in both clinical skills and medical terminology, with options to test out of foundational courses if already proficient, allowing tailored pacing.
- The program offers an unpaid clinical experience and CPR certification, providing hands-on practice valued by employers to enhance job readiness immediately after program completion.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $5,451 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Kalamazoo, MIProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,718 Avg. Aid Amount
- 29% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Kalamazoo Valley Community College
- The Medical Assistant program includes an exam voucher for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification, enhancing job readiness and credential recognition.
- Students have the option to test out of the Medical Terminology course with a minimum score of 80%, allowing for personalized pacing and advanced placement.
- The program offers CPR certification and an unpaid clinical experience, providing essential hands-on practice and increasing employability in healthcare settings.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,718 Avg. Aid Amount
- 29% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,378 Avg. Aid Amount
- 31% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Kirtland Community College
- Kirtland’s Medical Assistant program features newly equipped labs that replicate real medical facilities, allowing students to practice clinical skills using the newest technology for a true-to-life experience.
- Students benefit from internships in local medical settings, ensuring high confidence and smooth transition from training to professional employment.
- The program maintains a 100% pass rate on the AMT certification exam and is nationally accredited, giving graduates widely recognized credentials and strong employer trust.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,378 Avg. Aid Amount
- 31% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,416 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Washtenaw Community College
- The Medical Assistant program at Washtenaw Community College offers guaranteed clinical site placements with leading local healthcare employers IHA and Michigan Medicine, ensuring practical experience and employment opportunities upon completion.
- The program features an accelerated schedule, allowing students to complete required coursework in only two semesters while balancing externship experiences closely coordinated with class schedules.
- Strong local employer partnerships provide students with direct hiring pathways and sustainable living wage jobs, highlighting a workforce-driven curriculum aligned with urgent regional healthcare staffing needs.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,416 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,600 Avg. Aid Amount
- 23% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 8/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Baker College
- The Medical Assistant program at Baker College offers high job placement rates based on the most recent data reported to the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB), demonstrating strong career outcomes for graduates.
- The program prepares students to pass the national certification exam by meeting the standards set by accredited bodies such as CAAHEP, AAMA, and AMA, ensuring graduates hold recognized credentials valued by employers.
- Baker College emphasizes professional development by encouraging graduates to pursue continuing education and membership in professional medical assisting organizations, fostering career growth and networking opportunities.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,600 Avg. Aid Amount
- 23% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 8/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,059 Avg. Aid Amount
- 29% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lansing Community College
- Lansing Community College offers a substantial Medical Assistant scholarship covering nearly half the tuition, disbursed in two installments after successful semester completions, easing financial burden for students.
- The program features high clinical placement rates with hands-on labs on campus, ensuring strong practical experience and preparation for healthcare employment.
- LCC provides a Rapid Entry Scholarship specifically for medical assistant students, covering up to 15 billing hours including tuition and fees, facilitating accelerated program completion and workforce entry.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,059 Avg. Aid Amount
- 29% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 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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